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

(kh/av)

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

(kh/av)

Central Tapanuli, 10 February 2026 – Habitat for Humanity Indonesia continues to support families affected by flash floods and landslides in Sibolga City and Central Tapanuli Regency, North Sumatra. As the response moves beyond the emergency phase, the focus has now shifted to environmental recovery and housing repairs, enabling communities to return to safer and more decent living conditions.

On January 31, 2026, the Habitat Indonesia team continued the distribution of community shelter kits, reaching 170 households in Tukka Village, Tukka Subdistrict, Central Tapanuli Regency. The assistance focused on providing wheelbarrows to accelerate debris removal, transport remaining disaster materials, and support the spirit of community cooperation in restoring neighborhoods and small-scale public facilities.

This distribution complements the assistance that had been provided earlier. By the end of January 2026, a total of 676 families across four subdistricts in Sibolga City and one subdistrict in Central Tapanuli Regency had received support in the form of both family shelter kits and community shelter kits.

According to Handoko Ngadiman, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, this distribution marks the first step in Habitat Indonesia’s long-term commitment in North Sumatra. Through collaboration with the governments of Sibolga City and Central Tapanuli Regency, the recovery process is designed to align with local disaster risk mitigation efforts. “Our focus is not only on rebuilding houses, but also on strengthening community resilience so that families are better prepared to face future disasters,” he said.

Read also: Habitat for Humanity Indonesia Distributes Shelter Kits and Debris-Cleaning Tools in North Sumatra

Since December 10, 2025, the Habitat Indonesia team has consistently conducted rapid assessments followed by in-depth assessments to identify the needs of survivors, particularly homes with minor to moderate damage. The findings serve as the foundation for implementing repair and retrofitting programs for 500 houses over the next two years to improve structural safety.

Looking ahead, Habitat Indonesia also plans to rebuild homes for families who lost their houses due to severe damage. This effort simultaneously promotes women’s empowerment by involving mothers as key drivers in the repair and reconstruction process, enabling them to play an important role in rebuilding their families’ and communities’ lives.

All of these efforts are made possible through the support of donors, partners, and various stakeholders who continue to work hand in hand with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. Habitat Indonesia still welcomes #HabitatFriends who wish to take part in the post-disaster recovery efforts in Sibolga and surrounding areas. Your support will help more families gain access to safe, decent, and resilient homes.

Contribute through: kitabisa.com/campaign/bangunharapansibolga

Photo: HFHI/Budi Ariyanto

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

Bogor, February 2, 2026 – In a quiet corner of Bogor Regency, Ibu Kokom (55) often sits in silence in front of her home as the late afternoon sun begins to set. She is a widow, a housewife, and the head of household for her five children. In those quiet moments, she often gazes at the home that has long been the only shelter for her family—a house filled with stories of loss, struggle, and hopes that nearly faded away.

Since 2012, Ibu Kokom’s life has changed completely. The passing of her husband left a deep sorrow and a heavy burden she had to bear alone. From that day, she became the backbone of her family, raising her five children with very limited means. Year after year, she struggled forward, striving to remain patient even when reality often felt overwhelming.

Yet the burden did not stop there. The home that should have been the safest place slowly lost its function. The house had partially collapsed before and was repaired only minimally. Its walls were made of bamboo partitions without a sturdy structure, held up by simple wooden beams. The aged zinc roof offered little protection. From a distance, the house looked tilted, as if it could collapse again at any moment.

For years, Ibu Kokom and her children lived without a bathroom or toilet. They relied on a small stream nearby for their basic needs. Close to the stream, there was a small spring often used for bathing and cleaning themselves.

“When it was really urgent, I sometimes had to use a neighbor’s bathroom,” Ibu Kokom said quietly. “But not often, because it’s embarrassing. It really doesn’t feel right to intrude.”

Ibu Kokom’s house is located far from her relatives’ homes. Since her husband passed away, she could only rely on neighbors. But receiving help was not always easy. There was a sense of hesitation, a feeling of discomfort—especially when kindness was not always available.

“I once had to deal with the neighbor locking their toilet door because I used it too often. They said I couldn’t use it anymore,” she recalled.

Those experiences left small scars on Ibu Kokom’s heart—not from anger, but from feeling powerless. She knew not everyone could keep sharing, and she was exhausted from always having to ask for help.

Amid these limitations, Ibu Kokom held onto a simple dream: to have a decent home. Not a luxurious one, not a large house. She only wanted a home that could protect her family, ease the burdens of life, and give her children a sense of safety. She never stopped praying, every time she worshiped, every time exhaustion set in. And one day, her prayers found a way.

Read also: The House That Became a Witness to Durahman’s Family Happiness

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, in collaboration with Astra, visited Ibu Kokom and helped renovate her home into a decent and safe dwelling. The news came as a ray of light amid the long years of hardship she had endured.

“Alhamdulillah, my children and I are so happy,” she said, tears welling in her eyes.

The house construction became an unforgettable moment. Many hands were involved, and acts of kindness flowed abundantly. Neighbors and residents volunteered, carrying materials, dismantling the old house, and digging into the septic tank. The once fragile home slowly transformed into a sturdy and safe building.

Now, the weight that had long pressed on her shoulders feels lifted. Her home is no longer a source of worry.

“Now I don’t have to think about all the problems with the house anymore,” she said. “The house is strong, it’s good, and we finally have our own bathroom and toilet. No more going to the stream.”

More than just a physical building, this decent home has restored the dignity of Ibu Kokom’s family. They now enjoy private space, better sanitation, and growing self-confidence. The children no longer feel inferior, and Ibu Kokom no longer feels ashamed.

For Ibu Kokom, this home is more than a place to live. It is a shelter from the harshness of life, a place where hope is sown again, and a space where her children’s future can be planned with greater peace.

“A home is where we return every day,” she said. “And this house will be everything for my children’s future.”

There are still many families like Ibu Kokom who hold similar simple dreams: the hope for a better, safer life despite limitations. Every home that is built does not just change a building—it changes the direction of a family’s life.

The right helping hand can answer prayers that have long been offered. If you want to be part of this change, your kindness can be contributed through: habitatindonesia.org/donate

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

Bogor, January 21, 2026 – That morning, Muhamad Qosim stood for a moment at the threshold of his home, which is now painted a bright blue. The small house that once felt cramped and filled with worry now looks spacious and calming. Something he once found nearly impossible to imagine has now become his everyday view.

Qosim, 47, is a familiar face at the Sentul Village Office in Babakan Madang, Bogor Regency. Since 2020, he has worked as an office boy there. For over five years, he has dedicated himself to cleaning rooms, preparing office supplies, and ensuring that public service activities run smoothly. The wages he receives do not exceed one million rupiah per month—an amount he must manage with extreme frugality to support his 41-year-old wife, Ella, and their three children: two who are in high school and elementary school, and a two-year-old.

Before becoming an office boy, Qosim worked as a local motorcycle driver. Moving from one job to another has long been a part of his life. Yet, one thing never changed: his responsibility as the head of the family and his desire to provide a sense of security for the people he loves.

The house they occupy is not new. Twenty years ago, Qosim bought it from his grandmother, with a land area of only 21 square meters. When it was just him and his wife, the house felt sufficient. However, as the children grew, the cramped space began to feel stifling.

“Since I’ve owned this house, it has never been rebuilt or expanded. It just stayed like this. At most, I’d fix it little by little if there was a leak or if the walls started peeling,” Qosim recalled.

The roof was made of asbestos, a material he knew posed health risks to his family. However, replacing it with tiles was no easy feat due to financial constraints. “I couldn’t afford to switch to a tiled roof. The cost is high, while my income is only enough for food and the children’s schooling,” he said softly.

Whenever he found holes in the walls or parts of the house starting to rot, Qosim always tried to repair them. The fear that the house might endanger his family at any moment was his driving force, even though his financial situation was often inadequate. Consequently, any money he had was always spent on patching up damages. They lived hand-to-mouth, with almost no room to save. Their income was only enough for daily meals and children’s education.

Read also: A Mother’s Story: Almost Leaving for the Future of Her Family

Change began when Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, together with PT Mitra Pinasthika Mustika, arrived in Sentul Village. Through an assessment process, Qosim’s home was deemed in need of an upgrade to become a decent place to live. The damaged condition of the house, his status in the lowest economic group, and the overcrowding of family members relative to the house’s size were the key considerations for building him a decent home.

The construction process was a moment filled with hope. Slowly, the fragile old house was replaced by a more spacious and sturdy dwelling. Now, Qosim’s house stands at 28 square meters, painted a bright blue that radiates a completely different atmosphere than before.

“Alhamdulillah, I am so grateful for this house. The whole family is beyond happy. Even my youngest child immediately pointed out where their room should be,” he said with a small laugh.

With a larger house, Qosim no longer has to share a mattress with the entire family. He, his wife, and their youngest child now have their own bedroom, while the other two children also have their own sleeping spaces.

“I also feel more confident. I’m no longer ashamed to welcome guests. I used to direct them to my parents’ house because my own was too cramped and inadequate,” he said.

The blessing of a decent home did not stop at physical changes. A few weeks after the house was completed, Qosim was offered a new role as a service staff member at the village office—an opportunity he had never imagined before, marking a new chapter in his life.

For Qosim, a decent home was not the direct cause of his change in status. However, the house became a foundation that provided security, peace of mind, and the confidence to take further steps. With more stable living conditions, he was able to demonstrate his full capacity and dedication at work.

“Now I have a new spirit. I want to work harder and save up slowly. In the future, I want to add one more bedroom,” he said hopefully.

Qosim’s story proves that a house is more than just a building. A house is the foundation of life that opens doors for change. When a family has a safe and decent place to live, hope finds a place to grow.

For Qosim, this decent home has led him not only to a better place to stay but to a life of greater dignity and hope.

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

Sibolga, 21 January 2026 – Habitat for Humanity Indonesia has moved swiftly into the post-disaster recovery phase following the floods and landslides that struck North Sumatra in late 2025. With the support of donors, Habitat Indonesia has distributed 200 Shelter Kit & Rubble Removal packages out of a total target of 1,000 packages to disaster-affected families in Sibolga, Central Tapanuli, and surrounding areas. This humanitarian action was made possible through the generous financial support of donors.

The distribution of assistance was further strengthened by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and the City of Sibolga, represented by Akhmad Syukri Nazry Penarik, S.Pd., M.H., Mayor of Sibolga, as well as Central Tapanuli Regency, represented by Masinton Pasaribu, S.H., Regent of Central Tapanuli. This formal collaboration aims to harmonize beneficiary data and ensure that the physical housing recovery process aligns with local government spatial planning and disaster risk mitigation strategies. With this legal framework in place, Habitat Indonesia gains broader access to coordinate technical and logistical assistance on the ground.

The aid distribution was led directly by Handoko Ngadiman, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, and Arwin Soelaksono, Program Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, to ensure that essential equipment was delivered directly to families in need, enabling them to begin repairing their homes independently.

Support Through Home Repair Tools and Rubble Removal Equipment

Based on needs identified in the field, the distributed packages include technical tools for home repairs and debris removal following the floods. Each family received:

• Protective Materials: Two tarpaulins measuring 4 x 6 meters and 15 sacks with a capacity of 50 kg.
• Carpentry Tools: A medium-sized hammer, a wood saw, a crowbar, a shovel, a hoe with handle, and 2 kg of nails (7 cm and 10 cm sizes).
• Safety Equipment: Three rolls of rope, one dozen work gloves, and two units each of safety helmets, work boots, and safety goggles to ensure community safety during recovery activities.

In addition to household-level assistance, Habitat also provided Community Shelter Kits, which include shared equipment such as five wheelbarrows per group to accelerate environmental clean-up efforts.

Read also: Thousands of Sibolga Residents Lose Their Homes Due to Floods and Landslides; Habitat for Humanity Indonesia Calls on the Public to Help Restore Safe Housing

Two-Year Post-Disaster Recovery Program

The distribution of these shelter kits marks the beginning of Habitat Indonesia’s long-term commitment over the next year, focusing on home repairs and retrofitting, followed by the construction of new housing in the second year.

1. Home repairs and retrofitting for 500 houses with minor to moderate damage, focusing on strengthening housing structures to improve safety and resilience against future disaster risks.
2. For households whose homes were severely damaged, the program will support the reconstruction of permanent housing in the second year for families who have lost their homes.
3. Women’s empowerment in post-disaster reconstruction, aimed at strengthening the role of women as key drivers of recovery efforts. This program emphasizes the active involvement of mothers in leading the recovery and housing reconstruction process for their families, positioning women as the primary agents of rebuilding in post-disaster communities.

“The distribution of shelter kits is only the first step of our long-term commitment in North Sumatra. Through strategic collaboration with the Sibolga City Government and the Central Tapanuli Regency Government, we are ensuring that the recovery process is not carried out in isolation, but is aligned with local disaster risk reduction efforts. Our focus is sustainability—we are not only rebuilding physical structures, but also strengthening community resilience, particularly the role of women, so they are empowered to safeguard and pass on safer housing for future generations,” said Handoko Ngadiman, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia.

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia believes that the active involvement of women is crucial to the sustainability of post-disaster recovery. As individuals who best understand domestic needs and family safety, women bring attentiveness and emotional resilience to the housing recovery process. By positioning women as key decision-makers in reconstruction, the homes built will not only be physically strong but also safer, more inclusive, and more resilient spaces for all family members in the future.

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia continues to welcome support from #SahabatHabitat who wish to take part in post-disaster recovery efforts in Sibolga and surrounding areas. Public support will strengthen long-term recovery initiatives, from home repairs to the construction of safer and more resilient housing for disaster survivors. Contributions can be made through the donation campaign at kitabisa.com/campaign/bangunharapansibolga, as a tangible expression of solidarity to help families rebuild their lives and restore hope.

Photo: HFHI/Budi Ariyanto

Writer: Astridinar Vania

(as/kh)

Tangerang, January 13, 2026 – That afternoon, Durahman (55) and his wife, Rohayati (48), gathered in the living room of their new home, watching their children and grandchildren play with joyful laughter—without the disruptions of leaks or the stifling air they once endured.

Every corner of this new home holds happiness that once seemed unimaginable. For more than thirty years, Durahman and his family lived in a fragile, cramped house filled with limitations. Today, everything has changed. Their home is now safe, comfortable, and warm—a gift born of relentless hard work and unwavering prayers.

Before having a decent home, Durahman’s life was full of uncertainty. He worked as a day laborer, willing to do any job—from digging to construction—earning only fifty thousand rupiahs per day if there was work available. Two years earlier, when his body was still strong, he walked tens of kilometers to collect and sell scrap materials. Age and health, however, eventually made such heavy labor impossible.

Meanwhile, Rohayati devoted herself to managing the household. They were blessed with four daughters, two of whom are married and live next door. The third child had to drop out of school due to financial constraints, while the youngest continued attending elementary school. This lack often left Durahman and his wife feeling they had failed to provide a proper life for their children.

Their old house only added to the struggle. Some walls were brick, others bamboo, lacking proper structural support. The aging roof was riddled with leaks during the rainy season.

“That house leaked all the time. I felt sorry for my children; it disturbed their studying. I tried to patch it up, but it still leaked,” Durahman recalled.

Even the ceramic floor was a product of his labor from collecting scrap. “That’s why my floor looks patchy and uneven,” he said with a small laugh.

Sanitation was another major challenge. The family had only a simple bathroom, while for defecation, they had to rely on relatives’ houses or a pond. Yet Durahman remained grateful that the family could at least gather under one roof, despite its limitations.

“I really wanted to give my family a proper home. But sometimes we barely had enough to eat. My youngest once said he wanted a two-story house. I could only tell him, ‘Just pray, my child,’” he said.

Read also: A Mother’s Story: Almost Leaving for the Future of Her Family

That hope eventually found a way through the Decent Home Program run by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia in collaboration with MedcoEnergi and Medco Foundation. Durahman’s home, along with 14 other families in Rajeg, Tangerang Regency, was rebuilt as part of a total of 45 decent homes constructed across Tangerang, Palembang, and Situbondo.

“I never imagined my house could be transformed and look this good,” Durahman said, unable to hide his emotion.

The change is evident in every corner: a new, tight roof, sturdy cream-colored walls, uniform ceramic floors, and proper sanitation facilities.

The first night in his new home, Durahman found it hard to sleep. Memories of the old leaky, fragile house lingered. But the next morning, the laughter of children studying and playing in the living room made him realize—they finally had a safe and comfortable home. No more rodents, clean air filled every room, and having their own toilet brought dignity and hygiene beyond measure.

With this new home, Durahman began thinking about the next steps to improve his family’s life and fulfill his children’s dreams. “Slowly, while I save some extra money, I want to resume selling scrap in the city. But for now, I want to focus on getting my third child back to school; he wants to attend a pesantren like his older sibling,” he shared.

He also emphasized that this house is not just for him, but for his youngest child—a legacy of comfort, safety, and opportunity.

Durahman’s family life is now filled with simple yet priceless joy. He can sit with his children and grandchildren in the living room, watching them study, play, and laugh—a reality that once felt impossible.

Every brick laid, every tile shielding them from rain, is not just a physical structure but a silent witness to prayers, hopes, and love embedded in the walls. Durahman’s house is now a foundation for the future, a place where the next generation can grow safely, healthily, and confidently.

Like sunlight streaming through the windows of their new home, this house illuminates new hope for Durahman’s family. And with every support given, more families like theirs can experience the warmth of fulfilled prayers, the fruits of perseverance, and a life that is truly worthy.

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

Tangerang, January 8, 2026 – In a quiet corner of a village in Tangerang Regency, Kamila sits on the porch of her new, sturdy home, cradling her youngest baby. From time to time, she glances at the clean walls, the tight roof, and the dry floors. Her other child runs around the living room, laughing—a sound that was once drowned out by the heavy rain leaking through the roof of their old house.

It has been three weeks since Kamila moved into this decent home, yet her gratitude seems endless. Each morning, when she opens her eyes, she often pauses in awe. “Oh God… my house really looks like this,” she whispers, as if she still cannot fully believe that a dream that once felt so far away has now come true.

Before the New House

A few months ago, Kamila’s life was far from the sense of security she feels today. She and her small family lived in a house on the verge of collapse, with fragile bamboo walls, muddy dirt floors, and a roof that could no longer keep out the rain.

“When it rained, we had to lift the mattresses. We used pots to catch the leaks,” she recalled. During heavy downpours, water seeped not only from above but also from below. The dirt floor turned into mud, wet everywhere. Many nights, the family stayed awake—not because of the baby crying, but because they feared the roof might collapse.

During her pregnancy, the fear grew even stronger. “At that time, I was carrying this little one… I often felt so sad. I kept thinking, what if I give birth while still living in a house like this? I was afraid it might collapse… afraid something would happen to my baby.”

Economic limitations left the family with few options. Her husband, Samsul, 35, worked as a daily laborer in rice fields or construction sites, earning only IDR 50,000 per day—their sole source of income.

With a child in kindergarten and a baby, their daily needs were often unmet. “Sometimes we even had to borrow rice from the neighbors,” Kamila said. For her older child’s school fees, which amounted to nearly one million rupiah, Samsul often had to pay in installments or borrow from here and there. “It was really tough,” Kamila admitted.

In such desperate circumstances, Kamila even planned to work abroad as a migrant worker. She prepared documents, filled out forms, and even lost her diploma amid the long administrative process. But in the end, she canceled her plan because Samsul did not allow it.

“My husband said, ‘Be patient, Mah. Our sustenance is already arranged. Stay here, don’t go abroad. Let’s take care of our family and children.’”

When Kamila repeated her husband’s words, tears welled up in her eyes—not just out of love, but because she knew her decision to stay was solely for the family, even if it meant continuing to live in a house barely fit to be called home.

“There’s nothing we can do… our means are limited. Every extra rupiah goes straight to paying off debts,” she revealed.

Read also: Closing the Journey of 2025: Thank You for Building Hope Together

Hope Knocks on the Door

That hope arrived on a day she never expected. “I still remember… when the Habitat team came for the first survey. I felt so relieved. Even then, I had a little hope. But when we were actually chosen for assistance… Alhamdulillah, I am so grateful.”

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, together with donors, rebuilt Kamila’s house from the ground up—giving it a strong structure, solid walls, a leak-free roof, and spaces where her family could breathe easy. Before moving in, Kamila even contributed her small efforts to help build the kitchen and organize parts of the house—a small gesture from a big heart.

When she saw the house completed, Kamila could only bow her head and cry. “Oh God… is this the answer to my husband’s words telling me not to go abroad? Maybe if I had gone, I wouldn’t have gotten all of this.”

Three weeks in the new home have drastically changed their lives. “No more leaks, no more moving mattresses around,” she said with a wide smile. “It feels safe, comfortable… even sleeping is better.”

But the biggest change is not in the house itself—it is in her mind. Kamila can now focus on caring for her children without fearing the house might collapse or worrying about repair costs. She can think about her children’s future, not just surviving day to day. And without urgent repair expenses, the family can begin slowly paying off their debts.

“This house… is a blessing I never imagined before,” she said softly but firmly.

Kamila knows that her good fortune is not shared by all. “Millions of families out there also dream of a house like this. But their means… maybe are just like ours before. Very limited.”

Kamila’s story is a reminder that a house is not just a building—it is the foundation for a family to live with dignity, raise children safely, and dream bigger. And for families like hers, the caring hands of others are the bridge between hope and reality.

Help create more decent homes for families in Indonesia: habitatindonesia.org/donate

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

Sibolga, January 5, 2026 — Flash floods, landslides, and extreme weather that struck northern Sumatra since late November 2025 have left deep scars. Millions of residents were forced to evacuate after their homes were destroyed by landslide debris and overflowing rivers. In response to this crisis, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia is calling for national solidarity to support housing recovery efforts for affected families, particularly in Sibolga City and Tapanuli Tengah Regency.

Based on the Rapid Assessment conducted by Habitat Indonesia’s Rapid Assessment Team between December 11–21, 2025, a total of 633 houses were reported damaged, 311 of which were severely damaged, leaving residents without safe shelter. Conditions for flood and landslide survivors in Sibolga have now reached a critical phase. The latest 2025 Joint Needs Assessment (JNA) report reveals that more than 57% of affected homes are no longer safe to live in. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia is urging immediate action from all sectors of society to assist the thousands of people who have lost their homes and access to basic health services.

A Humanitarian Crisis Amid the Ruins

An estimated 7,276 people are currently displaced. South Sibolga and North Sibolga are among the most critical areas, where hundreds of homes along hillsides and riverbanks have suffered severe structural damage.

“A house is more than just a building — it is a family’s final line of protection. In Sibolga, that protection has collapsed for hundreds of families,” said Arwin Soelaksono, Program Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. “We are on the ground not only to assess damage, but to ensure that families can return to homes that are safer, more decent, and more resilient to future disasters.”

Habitat Indonesia’s Concrete Actions on the Ground

Habitat Indonesia has developed a first-year humanitarian response plan focused on:

• Distribution of Recovery Shelter Kits (toolkits for home repair): Targeting 1,000 families.
• Housing Repairs: Implementing repairs and structural retrofitting for 500 homes.
• Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Recovery: Providing clean water access, sanitation services, and training on safer rebuilding practices (Build Back Safer).
• Support for Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI): Ensuring vulnerable groups — including women-headed households, the elderly, and people with disabilities — have safe and inclusive access to markets and cash assistance.

A Humanitarian Call: Let’s Rebuild Together

Post-disaster recovery requires substantial resources. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia invites the private sector, communities, and individuals to join this humanitarian mission. Every contribution will directly support the procurement of building materials, construction tools, and technical assistance for building safe homes.

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia invites you to bring hope to Sibolga residents through kitabisa.com/bangunharapansibolga or via Habitat for Humanity Indonesia’s official donation account:
Post-Disaster Housing Recovery in Sibolga

Please add “26” at the end of your donation amount (for example: IDR 100,026) to help us identify your contribution.

“We invite everyone to be part of the solution. With your donation, we are not only providing a roof — we are giving new hope for the people of Sibolga to rebuild their lives and plan for the future,” Arwin added.

Writer: Astridinar Vania

(av/kh)