Tangerang, April 7, 2026 – There are wounds that are not always visible, yet they are felt every time the rain falls. For Banhawi, every drop of water that once fell from his roof was not just a leak—it was a reminder of a life filled with hardship.

At 53 years old, Banhawi spends his days working as a scrap collector in Rajeg, Tangerang Regency. His income is uncertain, ranging from IDR 150,000 to IDR 200,000 per day, depending on how much scrap he manages to gather. From this modest income, he had to meet daily needs while facing a difficult trial when his wife fell ill with a tumor.

For four years, Banhawi devoted himself to caring for his wife. The cost of medication—IDR 100,000, which only lasted for three days—became a heavy burden amid his limited earnings. At the same time, the house they lived in was far from livable.

The walls were made of fragile bamboo panels, riddled with holes and infested with termites. Parts of the structure had begun to tilt, with broken roof supports barely holding up. When it rained, the house could no longer provide protection.

“When I talk about my old house, I feel sad. When it rained, I couldn’t sleep—I had to catch the leaks with buckets,” Banhawi recalled.

Even covering the roof with plastic could not withstand the heavy rain. Long nights were filled with anxiety and discomfort. He often felt ashamed when neighbors wanted to visit.

“Seeing other people’s houses already in good condition while mine was just the way it was made me very sad. When neighbors wanted to come over, I felt embarrassed,” he said.

Behind all these hardships, Banhawi held onto one simple wish: to make his wife happy by providing a decent home. He continued to repair the house as best as he could, while still prioritizing her medical needs.

“I still remember my wife telling me, ‘Please keep fixing this house, as long as nothing breaks or collapses.’ So I kept repairing it little by little while continuing to buy her medicine,” he shared.

But fate had other plans. His wife eventually passed away, leaving Banhawi with memories, unfulfilled hopes, and a home that was still far from safe.

Then came a turning point. With support from MedcoEnergi and Medco Foundation, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia rebuilt Banhawi’s house into a decent home. He became one of 14 families in Rajeg who benefited from the housing program, part of a total of 45 homes built across Tangerang, Palembang, and Situbondo.

Read also: New Hope in Their Later Years for Karju and Jumiyati

Today, Banhawi’s house stands strong, with white walls and a sturdy light steel roof. It features two bedrooms, a living room, and a proper bathroom and toilet—providing safety while also supporting better health through improved sanitation.

This transformation has brought him a sense of peace he had never felt before. “Alhamdulillah, I feel much calmer now. I’m incredibly happy—it’s completely different from before. Now I don’t worry anymore when I leave the house to collect scrap,” he said.

More than just a place to live, the house has given him renewed motivation. Banhawi now works even harder, and his income has increased to around IDR 300,000 to IDR 400,000 per day. He has started planning for the future—something that once felt out of reach.

Looking ahead, he hopes to renovate the kitchen and add a canopy to the front of his house, saving little by little from his earnings to make it happen.

Behind his smile and renewed spirit lies a quiet hope that could not be fulfilled with his wife. “If my wife were still here today, I believe she would be incredibly happy. This was her dream—to have a good house like this,” he said softly.

Now, the house that was once filled with worry has transformed into a space of safety, comfort, and new hope. For Banhawi, this home is not just a shelter—it is proof that real change is possible, that even in the midst of hardship, there is always a chance for a better life.

Let’s explore more inspiring stories and see how your support can bring new hope to families in need here.

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

Yogyakarta, March 31, 2026 – Water is the source of life and a fundamental human right. However, for many communities in Indonesia, access to clean water and adequate sanitation remains a real challenge.

As part of the global commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6), access to safe drinking water, proper sanitation, and good hygiene practices forms a critical foundation for creating a healthy and dignified life. Without these, a house cannot fully function as a safe space for growth and development.

To address this challenge, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, through the project “Strengthening Local Community Resilience in the Water and Sanitation Sector,” has implemented an integrated program to improve access to water, sanitation, and decent housing over the past three years.

The program was carried out in phases across three locations: Babakan Madang (Bogor) from March 2023 to March 2024, Wringinanom (Gresik) from March 2024 to March 2025, and Nglipar (Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta) from March 2025 to March 2026. This phased approach allowed adaptation to local contexts while strengthening implementation quality through continuous learning from each phase.

From Infrastructure to Behavior Change

Through an integrated approach, the program focused not only on physical development but also on behavior change and community capacity building.

A total of 75 houses were renovated, with improvements centered on water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities, including the construction of hygienic toilets, installation of water tanks, and upgrades to kitchens and ventilation. In addition, 60 families now have access to safer and more adequate private sanitation facilities.

At the community level, more than 2,250 families, or over 10,000 individuals, now have access to clean water through solutions tailored to local conditions—ranging from the utilization of natural springs to community-managed water distribution systems.

These efforts were further strengthened by the renovation of 32 integrated health posts (posyandu) to improve maternal and child health services.

Beyond infrastructure, the program also emphasized behavior change as a key to sustainability. A total of 135 families received education on home maintenance and the adoption of clean and healthy living practices. Meanwhile, 2,250 community members were equipped with knowledge on hygiene, sanitation, and family health practices, including safe water usage and proper handwashing habits.

To ensure long-term sustainability, 90 members of local water committees were also trained and strengthened to manage water facilities at the community level.

Public awareness was further expanded through various campaigns reaching more than 3,775 individuals, including activities commemorating World Water Day and World Toilet Day, as well as other educational initiatives promoting awareness of clean water and sanitation.

Read also: Hope Rising from Ibu Sri’s Small Kitchen

Data-Driven Learning for Sustainable Impact

As part of the Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) system, baseline studies were conducted in each location to assess initial conditions related to housing quality, water and sanitation access, WASH behaviors, and community capacity.

Following the completion of all interventions, endline (impact) studies were conducted to measure the extent to which the project delivered tangible and measurable changes in people’s lives.

The findings serve not only as evaluation reports but also as a foundation for broader learning. Through a Learning Event, evidence-based insights are disseminated to reflect on the effectiveness of integrating housing and WASH approaches, while also exploring the potential for replicating this model to support the achievement of SDG 6 and improve settlement quality.

Fostering Collaboration for a Healthier Future

To conclude the program, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia organized a Learning Event on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. The event involved a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from national and local governments, civil society organizations, development partners, academics, and community representatives.

Through this forum, participants reflected on program achievements, identified key success factors and challenges, and formulated evidence-based strategic recommendations to strengthen sustainable WASH services.

More importantly, the event aimed to reinforce cross-sector collaboration and encourage shared commitment to expanding access to clean water, proper sanitation, and healthy housing for all communities.

Flowing Hope, Strengthening Lives

Over the three years of implementation, the program has impacted more than 200,000 people, both directly and indirectly. However, the true impact lies not only in the infrastructure built, but in the meaningful changes experienced by the communities.

Together with government partners, stakeholders, and communities, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia continues to strengthen resilience and promote healthier, more sustainable living. Because every family deserves to live in a home that is decent, healthy, and dignified.

Photo: HFHI/Patrik Cahyo & Kevin Herbian

Writer: Syefira Salsabilla

(av/kh)

Jakarta, March 30, 2026 – The significant gap between the number of homes needed by the community and the availability of adequate housing is not only a concern for the government, but also for various stakeholders, including nonprofit organizations such as Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. Habitat Indonesia focuses on the most affected groups, particularly low-income families in the bottom income deciles (deciles 1 and 2), women-headed households, and people with disabilities.

Understanding the Scale of the Housing Backlog

Data cited from the government’s official website shows that the housing backlog in Indonesia remains significantly high. There are approximately 29,171,222 families experiencing housing backlog, which consists of two main categories: ownership backlog and housing adequacy backlog.

Around 12,573,383 families fall into the ownership backlog category—families who do not yet own a home. Meanwhile, 16,597,839 families experience a housing adequacy backlog, meaning they already have a place to live but their homes do not meet the standards of decent housing.

The distribution of this backlog also shows a significant concentration on the island of Java. West Java records the highest housing backlog, followed by East Java and Central Java. This indicates that rapid population growth in these regions has not been fully matched by adequate housing provision.

Why Is the Housing Backlog Still High?

The high number of housing backlogs does not occur without cause. Various interconnected factors contribute to this condition.

One major factor is the limited availability of housing financing schemes that have not yet fully reached low-income families, especially those working in the informal sector. Without access to affordable financing, many families struggle to purchase their own homes.

In addition, rapid population growth and urbanization are often not balanced by sufficient housing supply. This situation triggers the emergence of densely populated settlements, informal housing, and areas that develop without proper planning.

Another issue relates to the quality of houses and residential environments. Many homes still do not meet technical and health standards, ranging from unsafe building structures and limited living space to inadequate access to clean water and proper sanitation.

Data shows that around 12.8 percent of residential areas are still categorized as slums, while approximately 30 percent of buildings do not meet proper technical building standards. This indicates that housing issues are not only about the number of houses but also about the quality of housing and living environments.

Read also: Understanding Retrofitting: Strengthening Survivors’ Homes After Disasters in Sumatra

Collaboration to Reduce the Housing Backlog

To address these challenges, various efforts continue through government policies and strategic programs.

In the context of homeownership backlog, the government through BP Tapera initiated the FLPP (Housing Financing Liquidity Facility) program, which provides more affordable housing financing schemes for low-income families.

Meanwhile, to address housing adequacy backlog, the government through the Kementerian Perumahan dan Kawasan Permukiman implements the BSPS (Self-Help Housing Stimulant Assistance) program. This program aims to help low-income families improve the quality of their homes so that they meet decent housing standards.

In practice, many stakeholders collaborate to expand the program’s impact. One example is the involvement of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, which supports the implementation of programs aimed at improving housing quality for communities.

One such collaboration can be seen in the “Gerakan Untuk Membangun Rumah Sehat, Berdaya Guna Secara Terintegrasi dan Kolaboratif Melalui Aksi Nyata” (GUMREGAH TENAN) program implemented in 2024 in Gunungkidul Regency.

Through this program, Habitat Indonesia was entrusted as the government’s main partner to provide complementary funding that supplemented the BSPS program’s financial support. This collaboration enabled the construction and improvement of homes for 109 low-income families across three districts: Nglipar, Playen, and Patuk.

The one-year program successfully brought real change to beneficiary families. Homes that previously did not meet livability standards have now been improved to become safer, healthier, and more suitable to live in. As a result, these families have gradually moved out of inadequate housing backlog conditions.

Continuing the Collective Effort

Efforts to provide decent housing for communities certainly do not stop here. In the near future, in mid-2026, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia will continue its collaboration with local governments—this time with the Sragen Regency Government—to support the implementation of the BSPS program targeting hundreds of additional families.

Cross-sector collaboration like this is key to addressing Indonesia’s housing backlog challenge. When governments, civil society organizations, the private sector, and communities move together, efforts to provide decent housing for low-income families can progress faster and more sustainably.

Because in the end, a decent home is not just about a place to live. It is a foundation for health, dignity, and a better future for every family.

Let us continue to support this movement. Support from #SahabatHabitat means a great deal in helping more families in Indonesia obtain safe, healthy, and decent homes. Together, we can become part of real change for families who are still waiting for a proper place to call home.

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

Jakarta, March 25, 2026 – When people talk about building decent housing, many imagine construction workers laboring under the scorching sun—lifting bricks, mixing cement, and installing walls. Yet behind this process, there is an important role that often goes unnoticed: the involvement of women in designing, building, and sustaining their homes and communities.

Across the world, the issue of women’s participation in community development has received increasing attention. Gender equality and inclusive development are now essential parts of the global development agenda, as experience shows that women often have a deep understanding of the needs of their families and living environments. When women are given the space to participate in decision-making processes, development outcomes tend to be not only more relevant to community needs but also more sustainable.

This is the approach also promoted by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia in many of its programs. Building homes is not viewed solely as the construction of physical structures, but also as a process of empowering communities—ensuring that women have equal opportunities to participate, express their views, and become part of positive change within their environment.

Women as Community Planners

One example can be seen in the revitalization program in Tanjung Kait Village, Tanjung Anom Village, Mauk District, Tangerang Regency. During the planning phase, women in the village were actively involved in various community discussions.

In these forums, women shared the challenges they face in their daily lives—from inadequate housing conditions and insufficient sanitation to the need for safer living spaces for their families. Beyond voicing problems, they also took part in identifying solutions and shaping ideas about how their community should be rebuilt.

This participatory approach is important because women often have perspectives closely tied to household needs. They understand how kitchen spaces are used every day, how children need safe environments to grow, and how access to clean water and sanitation affects family health.

When women’s voices are included in planning, development results in not only better homes but also more inclusive and sustainable communities.

From Dialogue to Action

Women’s involvement does not stop at the discussion stage. During the construction process in Tanjung Kait Village, women also participated directly in various on-site activities.

Some of them are housewives, shellfish peelers, or members of fishing families whose daily lives depend on the sea. Yet when construction began, they willingly helped with many tasks—from carrying building materials and assisting with painting walls to preparing logistical needs for workers.

One of them is Nimah (55), a resident of Tanjung Kait Village whose house was part of the revitalization program. For Nimah, her involvement was not merely about helping with physical work but also about showing care for the future of her community.

“This house is my home and part of my community, so I feel it’s important for me to be involved in the construction process,” she said.

It is this spirit that transforms construction into something more than just an infrastructure project. It becomes a collective movement of mutual cooperation that strengthens a shared sense of ownership over the living environment.

Read also: Understanding Retrofitting: Strengthening Survivors’ Homes After Disasters in Sumatra

Women and Post-Disaster Resilience

The role of women is also evident in post-disaster recovery efforts. When disasters struck Sibolga and surrounding areas at the end of 2025, the recovery process involved not only volunteers and humanitarian organizations but also local communities—including women.

In many recovery activities, mothers and women in the community worked together to clear debris from damaged buildings, sort materials that could still be used, and help reorganize their living environment.

For many families, women often become figures who maintain household stability during difficult times. They ensure that children continue to feel safe, manage daily needs, and at the same time contribute to rebuilding lives that have been disrupted.

This involvement shows that community resilience is built not only through physical strength but also through solidarity and care among its members.

Women Volunteers Driving Change

In many decent housing programs initiated by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, women also take part as volunteers. It is not uncommon for them to engage in construction activities that have traditionally been associated with men.

From digging foundations and helping install walls to painting houses, women volunteers demonstrate that the spirit of helping others knows no boundaries. Their presence not only adds manpower but also brings a sense of solidarity that strengthens the spirit of mutual cooperation on the ground.

Through this involvement, women are no longer seen merely as beneficiaries of development programs, but also as key actors driving change.

These experiences show that sustainable decent housing development cannot be separated from the role of women. When women are actively involved, development produces not only stronger houses but also stronger, more inclusive, and more resilient communities capable of facing various challenges.

Women bring unique perspectives when it comes to understanding the needs of families and their surrounding environments. They often become the bridge between household needs and the broader interests of the community.

In many places, change begins with small steps—from voices heard in community discussions, from hands helping to paint the walls of a house, or from the determination to rise together after a disaster. And often, behind those changes, there are women working with sincerity to build homes, hope, and the future of their communities.

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

Gunungkidul, March 16, 2026 – A deep sense of emotion fills Karju whenever he reflects on his life journey. At 75 years old, he never imagined that in his later years he and his wife would finally be able to enjoy a more decent kitchen and toilet in their modest home in Nglipar District, Gunungkidul Regency, Yogyakarta.

Karju and his wife, Jumiyati, who is 64, are simple farmers. In their daily lives, they rely on the harvest from their rice fields to make ends meet. Some of the rice they grow is consumed by the family, while the rest is sold to buy basic household necessities. When the harvest is not plentiful, they make use of whatever is available around their garden.

“It’s not just rice. Whatever we have in the garden—bananas, chickens, anything—we sell it. The important thing is that we can eat every day,” said Karju.

However, their simple life has also been accompanied by many limitations. Their kitchen was only surrounded by old bamboo walls that had become fragile and full of holes due to age. This condition often made it difficult for Jumiyati when preparing meals for her husband, especially when heavy rain or strong winds came.

Animals would often enter through the gaps in the bamboo walls, making the kitchen dirty and causing unpleasant odors. For this elderly couple, such conditions not only disrupted their comfort but also threatened their health.

Another difficulty they had faced for decades was the lack of proper sanitation facilities at home. Every time they needed to use the toilet, they had to go outside and walk several meters from the house.

“I always prayed that someday we would be blessed with the means to have a proper kitchen and toilet,” Karju said.

He also often felt worried whenever earthquakes or strong winds occurred—something that is not uncommon in the Gunungkidul area. “When there’s an earthquake, we can really feel it here. Or when strong winds come, we’re afraid the kitchen or toilet might collapse, especially since they were only made of bamboo,” he explained.

Read also: Hope Rising from Ibu Sri’s Small Kitchen

The prayers they had long offered finally found their way. Through the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) access improvement program, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, together with generous donors, helped rebuild the kitchen and toilet in Karju and Jumiyati’s home to make them safer and more suitable to use. This program not only supported their family but also helped 24 other families in Gunungkidul Regency, Yogyakarta.

Now, a new kitchen and toilet stand firmly in their home. The change is felt not only physically but also deep in the hearts of this elderly couple. The worries that once lingered have gradually been replaced with a sense of peace.

“We feel calm and relieved now. There’s no more worry or fear. The new kitchen and toilet are much better and stronger,” Karju said.

The new kitchen has now become the space they use most often. During the holy month of Ramadan in particular, the room has become a witness to their simple moments of happiness. “Now we have our pre-dawn meal and break our fast here in this kitchen. It feels joyful and heartwarming,” Karju said with a smile.

Having a toilet inside the house also brings greater comfort, especially for them at their age. “Now we’re no longer worried about going to the toilet at night or when it rains because it’s already inside the house. It helps us so much,” he added.

For Karju and Jumiyati, the new kitchen and toilet are not merely structures. They symbolize hope, peace of mind, and a restored sense of dignity in their later years. At an age when their strength is no longer what it once was, having a safe and decent home is a truly meaningful blessing.

Small changes like this prove that support and compassion can create a significant impact on the lives of families in need. A home is not only a place for shelter, but also a space where people can live their days with safety, comfort, and hope.

Let’s explore more inspiring stories about how Habitat for Humanity Indonesia’s programs are bringing real change to families across various regions. Each story is proof that together, we can build not only homes, but also hope.

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

Karawang, March 9, 2026 – Is it really possible for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to scale up? The answer is absolutely yes.

Through a training program organized by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia in collaboration with PT Asuransi Jasa Indonesia (Asuransi Jasindo), 20 MSME actors in Karawang Regency have gained new insights into the GoGreen concept and inclusive business practices to meet the demands of an increasingly sustainability-conscious market.

This training is also part of the ongoing support for families benefiting from the decent housing program. Several participating MSME actors are families running home-based businesses that have grown from living in safer and healthier homes. From these improved homes, they have started small enterprises to boost their family’s economic well-being.

Among the 20 MSME participants were five entrepreneurs with disabilities, reflecting the program’s commitment to inclusive learning spaces where every business actor has equal opportunities to enhance their skills and expand market access.

The three-day training, held from 25 to 27 February 2026, took place at the Hall of the Office of Cooperatives and MSMEs, Karawang Regency. During the program, participants received comprehensive materials designed to strengthen the competitiveness of their businesses amid shifting market trends.

Topics included understanding green business concepts, identifying eco-friendly opportunities within their businesses, and developing green business plans using a simple business model canvas. Participants also received guidance on transforming ideas into eco-friendly packaging designs, understanding sustainable design principles and material selection, and preparing green packaging production as part of value-added marketing strategies.

The training featured experienced speakers, including Dr. Agung Surya Dwianto, SE., MM., CHRP, Dr. Didin Hikmah Perkasa, SE., MM., and Nur Endah Retno Wuryandari, S.Sos., MM., who shared both academic perspectives and practical business insights relevant to today’s MSME needs.

Read also: Photo: Improving Community Health through PHBS Training

The program aimed to enhance participants’ knowledge and skills in implementing the GoGreen concept concretely in production and packaging processes. It also encouraged product innovation based on eco-friendly materials and expanded market access through branding reinforcement and collaborative opportunities with the private sector.

Furthermore, the initiative is designed to build an integrated green business ecosystem in Karawang Regency. MSME actors are encouraged not only to focus on profits but also to contribute to natural resource preservation and community welfare. By applying clean production principles, energy efficiency, and better waste management, MSMEs can grow sustainably while increasing their competitiveness in the market.

This collaborative commitment was also symbolized by the ceremonial handover of a mockup by the Head of TJSL Jasindo, Mr. Firman, to the Head of the Office of Cooperatives and MSMEs of Karawang Regency, Mr. H. Dindin Rachmadhy, S.Sos., M.M. This handover represents support for strengthening a more sustainable and inclusive MSME ecosystem in Karawang.

The collaboration proves that building the capacity of local entrepreneurs is a strategic step toward fostering a more inclusive and sustainable economic transformation. Equipped with new knowledge and skills, MSME actors in Karawang are now better prepared to level up—not only in terms of business scale but also in the positive impact they bring to the environment and the community.

Photo: HFHI/Edwin Manahan

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

Yogyakarta, March 3, 2026 – Every day, while most people are still asleep, the small kitchen is already alive. Thin wisps of smoke rise into the air, skilled hands shape dough into bakso cilok, and hope begins to simmer again at three o’clock in the morning.

In Pilangrejo Village, Nglipar District, Gunung Kidul Regency, 45-year-old Ibu Sri Lestari spends almost her entire day in the kitchen. Together with her husband, 49-year-old Bapak Sumarno, they rely on selling bakso cilok and soy milk to make a living. From dawn until late at night, Ibu Sri prepares the food, which her husband then carries as he travels from one village to another to sell.

Yet the kitchen where hope is prepared was far from adequate. Its walls were made of old bamboo panels with poor ventilation. Sunlight barely entered the space, so even during the day, the lights had to remain on for her to see the dough she was preparing. When heavy rain fell, water seeped in through gaps in the walls and the leaking roof.

“In the past, when it rained heavily, water would come into the kitchen. I had to stop cooking the meatballs here, and as a result, my husband couldn’t go out to sell,” Ibu Sri recalled.

The kitchen was not the only challenge. Their toilet was located outside, separate from the main house. To use it, the family had to walk across a dark and slippery yard, especially during rain or at night. The fear of slipping was constant. At the same time, there was also a sense of embarrassment about not having proper sanitation facilities.

“When it rains heavily, we’re afraid it will be slippery and that we might fall. At night it’s also very dark. We also feel embarrassed about having the toilet outside,” she said softly.

Read also: The Struggle of a Mother Head of Household to Achieve a Decent Home

Through the Clean Water Access and Proper Sanitation Program, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, with support from donors, rebuilt Ibu Sri’s kitchen and toilet. A new kitchen now stands firmly with permanent green-painted walls, complete with ventilation and windows that allow light and fresh air to flow freely. The toilet has also been rebuilt more safely and integrated into the house, providing comfort and privacy for the entire family.

The change was felt from the very first day.

Now, from a distance, the delicious aroma of meatballs can once again be smelled every morning. Smoke rises steadily from a kitchen that is far brighter and healthier than before. Ibu Sri no longer worries when it rains. She can continue cooking whenever needed.

“Now, even when the door is closed, it’s still bright. Light comes in from outside. There’s also plenty of ventilation, so the air feels fresh,” she said with a smile.

With a safer and more comfortable kitchen, her daily production has increased from 5 kilograms to 7 kilograms per day. She has even started adding a new variation of meatball soup to her menu. The family’s income has grown by approximately Rp150,000 to Rp200,000 per day compared to before. When Bapak Sumarno sells out, Ibu Sri can now quickly bring additional supplies without any obstacles.

“Now, when my husband runs out of goods to sell, I can immediately go and bring more meatballs,” she said enthusiastically.

For Ibu Sri and her husband, this change is not only about physical improvements. It is about renewed spirit. It is about believing that their hard work can build a better future for their two children who are still in school.

“With this new kitchen and toilet, it gives my husband and me more motivation to keep selling and provide for our two children,” she said emotionally.

Looking ahead, Ibu Sri dreams of buying a new refrigerator or freezer so that production can increase even further. She wants her business to continue growing, step by step.

Ibu Sri’s story is proof that access to adequate housing and sanitation is not merely about comfort, but about opening economic opportunities, protecting family health, and restoring dignity.

The support of donors has helped bring real change to families like Ibu Sri’s. Every contribution helps transform a once-dark kitchen into a space filled with light and hope.

Let’s read more inspiring stories and see how your support can bring real change to more families here.

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

Sibolga, February 23, 2026 – Flash floods and landslides that struck several areas across Sumatra Island have caused large-scale housing damage. According to Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) website (February 10), a total of 301,102 houses were damaged, consisting of 58,505 severely damaged, 66,785 moderately damaged, and 175,722 lightly damaged homes. The destruction is spread across 53 districts and cities in Aceh, North Sumatra, and South Sumatra provinces, illustrating the widespread impact of the disaster on communities’ lives.

The magnitude of this damage represents not only the loss of shelter but also the loss of safety and security for thousands of families. Recovery efforts therefore go beyond clearing debris; they require rebuilding homes so they are stronger and more resilient to future disaster risks.

To address this need, on January 21, 2026, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia began a two-year long-term commitment to support the recovery of affected families in Sibolga City and Central Tapanuli Regency. In the first year, the focus is on repairing and retrofitting 500 houses categorized as lightly to moderately damaged, allowing homes that are still habitable to be strengthened without requiring complete reconstruction.

But what exactly is retrofitting?

Before understanding the retrofitting method, it is important to first recognize how housing damage levels are classified. Based on the Guidelines for Identification and Verification of Damage issued by the Ministry of Public Works and Housing (PUPR) in 2021 through perkim.id, housing damage is divided into three categories: light, moderate, and severe. The assessment considers the condition of structural components such as foundations, columns, and beams, as well as non-structural components such as walls, roofs, and floors.

Lightly damaged houses generally experience damage only to non-structural elements, such as ceilings or roof coverings, and are still safe to occupy. Moderate damage affects some structural and non-structural elements; these houses remain habitable but require prompt repairs to prevent further deterioration. Meanwhile, severe damage occurs when most building components are compromised, making the house unsafe to live in and often requiring complete reconstruction.

Read also: Habitat Indonesia Reaches 676 Families, Strengthens Post-Disaster Recovery in North Sumatra

What is retrofitting?

For houses categorized as light to moderate damage, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia applies the retrofitting method. According to siagabencana.com, retrofitting is a technique to strengthen or modify existing buildings by adding new elements without dismantling the entire structure. This approach allows homes to be repaired more efficiently and cost-effectively while significantly improving their resilience.

Implementation can take various forms, such as adding or thickening walls, installing wire mesh before plastering, or applying jacketing systems with additional steel reinforcement. These strategies aim to increase the structure’s strength, stiffness, and flexibility so that buildings can better withstand pressure or shocks during disasters. Arwin Soelaksono, Program Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, who has experience working with the American Red Cross, notes that retrofitting can be carried out with relatively minimal funding while still effectively strengthening homes.

As reported by Tempo, retrofit measures can even begin with simple steps such as patching wall cracks, injecting cement slurry, and tying load-bearing components together so the building functions as a unified structural system. Interestingly, this approach is not only used after disasters occur but can also serve as a mitigation measure for homes located in disaster-prone areas.

Through retrofitting, the recovery process does more than restore houses to their previous condition—it creates safer and more resilient homes for the long term. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia believes that rebuilding means building back better, so survivor families can move forward with a renewed sense of security.

For this reason, Habitat Indonesia continues to invite the public to participate in these post-disaster recovery efforts. Support from donors will help more families repair their homes and rebuild their lives with renewed hope.

Contribute through: kitabisa.com/campaign/bangunharapansibolga

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

Tangerang, February 13, 2026 – Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, together with the Tangerang Regency Government and the Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas (PKP), officially held the Handover Ceremony of the Tanjung Kait Revitalization Program in Kampung Tanjung Kait, Tanjung Anom Village, Mauk District, on Friday (February 13). The event was inaugurated by Handoko Ngadiman, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia; Drs. Moch. Maesyal Rasyid, M.Si., Regent of Tangerang Regency; and representatives from the Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas.

The Tanjung Kait Revitalization Program is a multi-stakeholder collaborative initiative aimed at improving the quality of life of coastal communities, particularly low-income fishing families, through the provision of adequate housing, access to secure land tenure, and the development of basic infrastructure that supports healthier and safer living conditions. The program reaches approximately 110 families who previously lived in substandard housing with limited access to clean water, sanitation, and other essential facilities.

Through this program, residents not only receive decent and safer homes designed to withstand coastal environmental risks, but also gain greater security of land tenure through a financing scheme facilitated jointly with partners, along with support throughout the construction process. The area development is complemented by supporting infrastructure such as neighborhood roads, drainage systems, clean water networks, public facilities, and communal spaces that promote healthier and more productive community life.

Since its launch in 2021 using a participatory approach involving residents, local government, Koperasi Mitra Dhuafa (Komida), Selavip, PT Lautan Luas Tbk, BMI Monier, PT Avia Avian Tbk, PT Solusi Bangun Indonesia Tbk, and PT Prudential Life Assurance, the revitalization has become a symbol of transformation—turning what was once considered a slum coastal area into an organized, safe, and sustainable residential community. The program also forms part of a long-term effort to ensure that residents have access to decent housing while improving their social and economic well-being.

Read also: The Spirit of a Strong Woman Behind the Revitalization of Tanjung Kait Village

Handoko Ngadiman, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, stated that the program is rooted in the needs of the community.

“Seeing families in Tanjung Kait now living in safe homes with secure tenure brings us great joy. We hope this revitalization serves as a strong foundation for the Tanjung Kait community to continue progressing toward a better future. With a healthier environment and improved access to infrastructure, we believe this positive transformation will bring a renewed sense of safety and dignity to every beneficiary family. We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to all partners who have actively contributed to this revitalization,” said Handoko Ngadiman.

The Regent of Tangerang Regency, Drs. Moch. Maesyal Rasyid, M.Si., reaffirmed the local government’s commitment to improving the quality of life of coastal communities, particularly fishermen who play an essential role in the regional economy. This revitalization aligns with the region’s vision for sustainable and inclusive development by providing healthy, safe, and well-organized living environments.

With the completion of construction and the official handover, the residents of Kampung Tanjung Kait now embark on a new beginning—living in a more decent, safer environment that offers renewed hope for future generations. The revitalization is also expected to serve as a model for the development of other coastal villages across various regions, enabling more families to experience the benefits of adequate housing, healthy environments, and improved well-being.

Photo & Writer: HFHI/Syefira Salsabilla

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Bogor, 18 February 2026 – That morning, dark clouds hung low over Wanaherang Village, Gunung Putri District, Bogor Regency. The sky grew heavy, and soon a light drizzle began to fall, soaking the ground at the construction site of Pak Ade Saputra’s future home. The soil turned muddy and the air felt cold, yet the atmosphere was filled with energy and determination.

Sixteen volunteers from Thunderbird were ready to begin their day. Muddy shoes and clothes slowly dampened by the rain did not wipe the smiles from their faces. There were no signs of hesitation—only enthusiasm and shared laughter. They had come not merely to gather, but to help build a decent and safe home for Pak Ade and his family.

Pak Ade is a father of three. To support his family’s daily needs, he works as a day laborer, taking whatever jobs come his way. His income is uncertain, while the house they had been living in was far from safe or comfortable. Its fragile walls lacked proper structure, and the roof had holes in many places. Every time it rained, water seeped inside and flooded the floor. Instead of being a place of shelter, the house often left the family feeling worried.

Seeing these conditions, the construction of a decent home became a new source of hope for Pak Ade. That hope is now slowly taking shape, built hand in hand by volunteers working selflessly.

Read also: A Home That Strengthens the Steps of an Office Boy

The volunteers were divided into two groups. Some assembled steel frames to strengthen the structure, ensuring the house would stand firm and secure. Others dug the ground for the foundation. The sounds of hoes striking the soil, metal scraping, and light conversations blended together, creating a familiar rhythm of teamwork. Even as sweat poured and their energy drained, not one of them stopped, because they knew every small effort that day meant so much to one family.

Muhammad, one of the volunteers, said he felt as if he were at home. “My friends and I were welcomed very warmly. We’re happy to be able to help Pak Ade’s family. We hope that once this house is finished, it will bring blessings and a better life for them,” he shared.

For the Thunderbird volunteers, this activity was more than just an ordinary act of service. It served as a reminder that simple acts of care can create meaningful impact. Through togetherness, mutual cooperation, and the time they dedicated, a deeper sense of empathy grew for families like Pak Ade’s.

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia also expressed its highest appreciation to all the volunteers who contributed their energy and hearts to the construction process. Amid the rain and muddy ground, they proved that hope can be built together.

Slowly, the foundation began to take shape, walls rose one by one, and Pak Ade’s dream of having a safe home grew closer to reality. One day, this house will not only be a physical structure, but a space for shelter, togetherness, and the start of calmer, brighter days with his family.

Photo & Writer: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

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