Bogor, May 31, 2025 – Habitat for Humanity Indonesia once again held its annual CEO Build charity and volunteer event, carrying the theme “Board Room Leaders, Community Builders.” This year, the event was led by Edwin Soeryadjaya and involved 58 Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) and leaders from various prominent companies and educational institutions in Indonesia. Together, they built five homes out of 38 decent homes collected through fundraising by participating companies and individuals for low-income families in Kadumanggu Village, Babakan Madang District, Bogor Regency.

This activity is part of Habitat Indonesia’s long-term commitment to address the national housing backlog, which currently stands at 9.9 million units. In Kadumanggu Village, Babakan Madang District alone, at least 82 families still live in uninhabitable homes. Since starting the program in Kadumanggu Village, Habitat Indonesia has built 1,061 homesthrough new construction and housing quality improvements. This initiative aligns with the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs) point 11, which aims to make cities and settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. The majority of beneficiaries who receive support for decent housing construction are female heads of households, people with disabilities, and daily laborers who face economic limitations, making it difficult for them to improve their living conditions. CEO Build serves as a platform for active participation of corporate leaders to create a real impact on society.

Read also: Addressing the Housing Backlog: A Synergy of Government, Communities, and Civil Society Organizations

Since it was first held in 2015, this program has built 82 decent homes: 4 units in Bogor Regency in 2015, 11 units in Gresik Regency in 2019, 29 units in Banyuwangi Regency in 2022, and this year, 38 decent homes in Bogor Regency.

The enthusiasm of this year’s participants further strengthened the spirit of cross-sector collaboration. Gita Tiffani Boer, Director of PT Astra International Tbk, stated, “I am very enthusiastic to be directly involved in this activity with the ASTRA team. This is not just about building houses; it’s also about bringing new hope to beneficiary families.” Meanwhile, Sandiaga Uno, Co-Founder of PT Saratoga Investama Sedaya Tbk, added, “After five years, I am happy to be able to participate again. I believe that building decent homes is part of our collective responsibility as citizens to improve the well-being of our brothers and sisters.”

Edwin Soeryadjaya, as the leader of CEO Build 2025 and President Commissioner of PT Saratoga Investama Sedaya Tbk, expressed his hope that this activity can inspire more parties to participate. “I am happy to see the spirit and commitment of the CEOs in supporting Habitat Indonesia’s vision. We live side by side in this world, and we should help each other,” he said. Handoko Ngadiman, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, emphasized the importance of multi-stakeholder synergy in addressing the housing gap in Indonesia. “The target of 3 million decent homes cannot be achieved by the government alone. Collaboration between the community, the private sector, and non-profit organizations is needed. We invite all parties to work together to build a better future for families in Indonesia.”

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia expresses its deep appreciation to all CEOs, donors, and sponsors for their support. The CEO Build program is clear evidence that leadership can extend beyond the boardroom and have a direct positive impact on people’s lives. Going forward, Habitat Indonesia will continue to open opportunities for cooperation with various stakeholders to expand the reach of its programs and encourage decent, safe, and dignified housing for millions of families in Indonesia.

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Local governments should find more innovative ways to maximize the utilization of the local budget to support low-income households in having or renovating their houses. The local government should be creative in funding allocation to eliminate the housing backlog and inadequate housing. This initiative is needed to help low-income households finance housing construction or renovation.  

Deciding the amount of support for house funding is a dilemma. It cannot be used to renovate or build a house if it is too small. The money will go to anything else, such as daily consumption. If the funding is significantly large, then what kind of house will they build? Anyone will be tempted to build a big house, but later on, they will find out that the money will not be sufficient. Government funding will also not be enough since many low-income households need support. Then what will be the solution? We need to consider limited budget, but support as many households as possible with adequate housing.  

Those were discussed during the workshop in Gresik Regency, East Java Province. The Vice Regent of Gresik acknowledged that the regency has more than 6,900 inadequate housing units. Utilizing the village budget was discussed during the workshop on advocacy for providing adequate housing by the Local Government budget. The local government needs to find innovative ways to add its portion to the limited village fund. As discussed, a policy should be developed for technical guidance on prudently operationalizing this initiative.  

Read also: 28 Years of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia: Building Homes, Building Futures 

Supporting this initiative, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia shared its experiences developing the Regent Decree about Technical Guidelines for Building Decent Houses in Tangerang Regency. This policy was proven to be useful, as the Tangerang Regency Housing and Settlement Agency built more than 3,100 adequate housing units for low-income families.  

Moreover, with the generous support of PT Arthawenasakti Gemilang, Habitat Indonesia had supported families in Wringinanom Subdistrict with a Community-Based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM) approach.  This disaster risk management approach involves communities actively identifying, analyzing, treating, monitoring, and evaluating disaster risks to reduce their vulnerabilities and enhance their capacities to prevent and withstand the damaging effects of hazards.  

Understanding the risk, they proactively add features such as elevating the floor level since they have annual flooding. With this approach, too, families contribute to the construction cost by paying part of the builder’s wages and daily snacks, adding porches and ceremonies as common practices in their villages. This approach ensures responsibility and ownership, and since the families contribute to the process, they will maintain their houses properly. 

Combining advocacy and proof of robust houses constructed will send a strong message of the successful collaboration of local government, homeowners, and Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, which is supported by its generous donors. This will encourage replication, and this approach can be used across the country. 

Writer: Arwin Soelaksono/Program Director Habitat for Humanity Indonesia 

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Yogyakarta, May 15th, 2025 – Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, in collaboration with Herbalife Family Foundation, today announced the successful completion of a community-based program focused on stunting prevention in Kedungkeris Village, Ngilipar District, Gunungkidul Regency. The program, titled “Building a Brighter Future for the Next Generation: A Household-Centered Stunting Prevention Approach through Integrated Housing and Settlement Development, WASH Access, and Awareness Improvement,” has made significant strides in addressing stunting and improving community health.

Stunting remains a critical health issue in Indonesia, affecting an estimated 21.6% of children under five years of age nationally and 23.5% in Gunungkidul Regency. This program aimed to combat stunting by addressing its root causes through a holistic approach.

“We are proud of the positive impact this program has had on the community of Kedungkeris,” said Rudi Nadapdap, Senior Manager of Field Operations Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. “By providing access to safe and healthy housing, clean water and sanitation, and crucial health education, we are empowering families to create a nurturing environment for their children to thrive.”

The program’s key achievements include:

• Construction of 5 new houses
• Construction of 30 private toilets
• Construction of a Posyandu (integrated health post) building
• Training programs on healthy homes and clean and healthy behaviours (PHBS)
• Training for Posyandu cadres
• Provision of supplementary feeding

Arif Mustolih, Director Public Affairs Herbalife Indonesia, stated that this program is the result of collaborative efforts to find solutions and address the challenges of malnutrition, including the high rate of stunting among children in Indonesia.

“This collaboration with Habitat for Humanity which started in 2019, is part of the Casa Herbalife Program, a global initiative by the Herbalife Family Foundation that works with community organizations to provide nutritious food, educational resources, and safe environments for children and underserved communities,” said Arif.

Globally, the Herbalife Family Foundation has awarded $5 million in grants to 164 nonprofit organizations across 59 countries and territories for the 2024–2025 period.

The closing ceremony for the program was held on May 15th, 2025 at Posyandu Sendowo Kidul, Kedungkeris Village, Ngilipar District. The event was attended by local government officials, representatives from the Nglipar Community Health Center (Puskesmas), Posyandu cadres, beneficiary families, community leaders, and staff from Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and Herbalife Family Foundation.

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On May 1, 2025, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia celebrates its service as it reaches its 28th anniversary. This journey has been filled with hope, hard work, and collaboration to provide better living conditions for low-income communities across Indonesia. 

For nearly three decades, Habitat Indonesia has made a significant impact, reaching over 215,000 families through various programs that touch upon the fundamental aspects of their lives. Programs such as decent housing, access to clean water and sanitation, disaster response, economic empowerment, development of education and health facilities, and partnerships to improve housing access, all aim to help communities achieve a better quality of life. 

In 2025, Habitat Indonesia has successfully built 39,478 decent homes, an increase from 38,869 homes the previous year. A total of 31,375 families now have access to clean water and proper sanitation, a significant increase from 27,009 families in 2024. Additionally, 71,504 families have received renovation funding, demonstrating a commitment to creating safer and more comfortable homes. 

These numbers are the result of the hard work of the entire Habitat Indonesia staff and all those who have tirelessly worked in various regions, including Jakarta, Tangerang, Bogor, Karawang, Cilegon, Yogyakarta, Gresik, and Batam with the involvement of 2,399 volunteers from various background. 

Read also: When the Future Grows in a New Classroom

This success would not have been possible without the dedication, enthusiasm, and solid teamwork, as well as the support of various stakeholders, including partners, donors, and volunteers who have always been by our side. Habitat Indonesia stands strong thanks to this collaboration, which allows us to continue carrying out our noble mission of helping millions of families secure decent housing. Without them, these achievements would have been difficult to achieve. 

“We believe that every individual has the right to a decent place to live. On behalf of all the families we have helped, we would like to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has been part of this journey,” said Handoko Ngadiman, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia. 

With continued enthusiasm, Habitat Indonesia is committed to moving forward. The programs we run not only provide short-term assistance but also long-term impacts that enhance the overall quality of life in communities. We believe that true change begins with providing opportunities, and we are determined to continue opening those opportunities for more families. 

“We are confident that, through collaboration, we can create real change that not only meets basic needs but also paves the way to prosperity for more people,” added Handoko. 

Habitat Indonesia’s journey is far from over. There are still many families in need of assistance. However, we will continue to stand by them, providing access to decent housing and opening opportunities for a brighter future for millions of families in Indonesia. 

Let us join hands and be part of the real change. For a better future, for every family, for a better Indonesia. 

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For most teenagers, volunteering may not be the first choice for spending their free time. However, for 17-year-old Denzel Setiawan, a high school student, his experience as a volunteer became a turning point that opened the way to a sustainable, innovative project. 

It all began when Denzel joined a project to build decent homes with his mother, who was part of the Thunderbird Alumni community. At that time, he was involved in a volunteering activity with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia in Mauk, Tangerang. Seeing firsthand the impact of decent homes for underprivileged families made Denzel start thinking about how he could do more. 

From this experience, Denzel joined Habitat Young Star, a movement that encourages young people to actively participate in social activities. Here, he found a space to channel his concerns, not only through his efforts but also through ideas and innovation. 

Denzel’s First Step 

Denzel’s interest in environmental issues and technology led him to an unusual idea: to make building materials from shell waste. The idea came to him when he wrote a paper about converting carbon dioxide into renewable energy during his 11th grade. Inspired by the abundance of shell waste in coastal areas, especially in Mauk, Denzel began designing an environmentally friendly mortar project. 

Bringing this idea to life wasn’t easy. He had to dedicate time outside of school to discuss with academics from the University of Indonesia, conduct tests, and formulate the right material mix. The biggest challenge came from the lack of references and methodologies to use as a guideline. 

Currently, the shell waste mortar project is still in the development phase. Although it is not yet ready for widespread use, Denzel remains optimistic that with continuous improvements, the outcome could become an alternative building material that is eco-friendlier and more sustainable. 

Lessons from Volunteering 

For Denzel, volunteering is not just about giving help; it’s also about learning and growing. Through his involvement with Habitat Indonesia, he gained many new experiences—from leading teams and interacting with communities to designing solutions based on real needs in the field. 

He believes the most important thing in social activities is commitment. He realized that meaningful contributions can only be made when someone is truly ready to show up and fully engage in the process. 

“If you’re ready and have the time, do it with all your heart. But if you can’t commit yet, it’s better to wait. Because when we get involved, we bring hope to others,” he said. 

Read also: Habitat Young Star: Kirana’s Story Brings Youthful Spirit to the Segar Hati Project

Small Steps, Big Impact 

Through his project, Denzel hopes to encourage young people to start with simple things. He believes that big changes always start with small steps. According to him, everyone can contribute according to their interests and expertise. 

Denzel himself chose a path close to his love for the environment. He hopes that more young people will see the potential of things often overlooked and turn them into solutions that benefit society. 

Denzel’s story is an example that youth is not an obstacle to creating change. With strong ideas, a spirit of learning, and care for others, young people can actively contribute to building a better future for communities and the environment. 

About Habitat Young Star 

Habitat Young Star is a movement initiated by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia to invite young generations to be agents of change—not only in building homes and beautifying public spaces but also in creating solutions that have an impact on the environment. 

Through real actions such as building decent homes, educating people on the importance of living healthily and cleanly, and innovative, sustainable solutions like waste management into eco-friendly materials, young volunteers show that care for communities and the earth can go hand in hand. Want to be part of this positive movement? Visit: www.habitatindonesia.org/become-volunteer 

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Summer vacations are often associated with relaxation and leisure time. However, for Kirana Ratomo, an 11th-grade student at Jakarta Intercultural School, summer became the beginning of a much more meaningful journey. Through her involvement as a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, Kirana embarked on an inspirational path that not only had a positive impact on her, but also on many children in surrounding communities. 

Meeting Habitat for Humanity Indonesia 

Kirana’s journey with Habitat Indonesia began when she participated in a mission trip program at her church, IES Jakarta. Along with her mother and older sister, Kirana got involved in building homes in Mauk, Tangerang. Although she had no experience in construction, she felt truly appreciated by the supportive volunteer team. 

“The team was so supportive, even though I wasn’t the best at building foundations or installing wires, they still valued my efforts. That’s what made this experience so valuable,” she recalls gratefully. 

Kirana’s enthusiasm grew, and she continued to engage in various Habitat activities, including an internship program that brought her closer to the communities that Habitat Indonesia supports. 

The Birth of Segar Hati Project 

Kirana has a great passion for the arts, and it was here that her creativity made a significant impact. Seeing that many children in underprivileged communities lacked a space to express their creativity, she was inspired to start a social project that combined art with social activities. Thus, Segar Hati was born—a non-profit project focused on murals and building playgrounds from recycled materials for kindergarten children around Jakarta. 

This project became an opportunity to introduce art as a medium of expression for children. Every Saturday, Kirana and other volunteers hold mural sessions at various locations, such as early childhood education centers, apartment complexes, and villages. 

“Painting is the best way to bond. There is no right or wrong picture; everyone can be creative. I want children to experience the freedom to express themselves through art,” Kirana explains enthusiastically. 

Read also: Digital Reading Corner: Enriching Learning Opportunities Together

A Journey Not Always Smooth 

Although the Segar Hati project brought much joy, challenges were inevitable. One of the hurdles was running out of paint during the mural process, while the nearest paint store was an hour away from the location. Additionally, Kirana admits that she initially struggled with delegating tasks to her team. 

“At first, I was a perfectionist and wanted everything done according to my own vision. But I’ve learned that teamwork is important. Now, I can delegate tasks more effectively and trust my team members,” she reveals, sharing the valuable lessons she’s learned along the way. 

The Real Impact of Segar Hati Project 

The positive impact of this project is evident, especially for the children involved. Kirana recalls how children who were initially shy and hesitant eventually became more enthusiastic and even started playing and joking around. 

“At first, they were afraid to talk to me, but after we painted together, the atmosphere became more relaxed. That was a very valuable experience,” says Kirana, reminiscing about the moments of joy and laughter. 

Kirana and her team plan to continue expanding the Segar Hati project. In addition to painting at early childhood education centers and apartment complexes, they aim to expand the project to children’s hospitals and other public spaces. Kirana hopes that more young people will be inspired to get involved in similar social activities. 

“Try new things. I started by building houses, something I never imagined before. But from there, I found that stepping out of my comfort zone could lead me to extraordinary experiences,” Kirana shares as a message for young people out there. 

Habitat Young Star: Becoming a Change Agent 

Kirana’s story is a real testament to the fact that a small step can lead to a big change. With her passion and dedication, she not only contributed to the community but also inspired many people to try, share, and create a positive impact. 

Habitat Young Star is a movement initiated by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia to involve young people as change agents. Through concrete actions, Habitat Young Stars directly contribute to volunteering activities, from building homes, beautifying public spaces, to educating the community about health and sanitation. 

Become a part of Habitat Young Star and channel your energy and creative ideas to bring about real change! Click here to join: www.habitatindonesia.org/become-volunteer 

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That morning, excitement lit up the faces of the students at Pancar Bakti Junior High School in Bogor. One by one, they entered the classroom with confident steps and bright smiles. All 24 first-year students welcomed their school day with a new kind of enthusiasm. For the very first time, they could study in a newly built classroom—strong, safe, and comfortable—something they once could only dream of. 

Previously, the classroom was barely usable. Cracks large enough to form holes lined the walls, the floor tilted due to weakened structures, and the roof was on the verge of collapsing. The classroom, which should have been a safe space for learning, became a place filled with anxiety. Every day, students studied under the constant fear of danger that could strike at any moment. 

Mahra*, one of the students, still remembers how worried she used to be when sitting in class. “The old classroom always made me scared, Kak. I didn’t want to sit in the back because I was afraid it would collapse. I couldn’t concentrate on learning because my mind was all over the place,” she said. 

The same concern was shared by several teachers. Munawaroh, one of the school’s educators, admitted she often ran out of options. With limited classroom space, they were forced to continue using the room despite its hazardous condition. “I didn’t know what else to do. When it rained heavily or the wind got strong, we had to send the students home early for their safety,” she explained. 

A classroom should be a safe haven for learning—not a mental burden. If left unaddressed, such conditions could hinder the development and future of the students. 

Read also: Suparlik and the Rekindled Hope from a Kitchen

Building a Safe Space for the Future 

Hope began to rise when the renovation started in February 2025. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, supported by generous donors and volunteers, began rebuilding with a focus on the students’ safety and comfort. The project included reinforcing the building’s structure, replacing the roof and ceiling, installing new ceramic flooring, repairing door and window frames, and repainting the classroom to make it more pleasant and inviting. 

The changes have made a real difference. Teachers can now teach without fear, and students can learn with peace of mind. “Now I feel more confident stepping into the classroom. There’s no more fear like before. The students are also incredibly enthusiastic,” said Bu Munawaroh. 

Mahra, too, no longer dreads sitting in the back row. “Now I’m excited to go to school. I really like the color of the walls. The classroom feels safe and cozy now,” she said with a smile. 

A Learning Space as the Foundation of a Golden Generation 

More than just a renovation of a physical building, this classroom project is part of a larger effort to create a brighter future for Indonesian children. When they have proper learning spaces, they have more opportunities to grow, learn, and dream big. 

Access to safe, inclusive, and quality education is the right of every child. This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Number 4: “Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.” That’s why investment in educational facilities is not just about today—it’s about building a strong foundation for Indonesia’s future golden generation. 

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia believes that education is the key to change, and a safe classroom is the first step toward that transformation. Be a part of this journey. Support Habitat Indonesia’s education programs and help build more proper learning spaces for children across the country. Visit www.habitatindonesia.org/education-health and lend your hand today. 

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Yogyakarta, February 25, 2025 – After successfully providing clean water access in Bogor and Gresik Regencies, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia continues its commitment to ensuring clean water for communities in need across the country. From mid-2025 through 2026, this program will reach the villages of Pengkol and Pilangrejo in Nglipar Subdistrict, Gunung Kidul Regency, Yogyakarta.

A total of 250 residents in these villages will soon have access to clean water directly from the taps in their homes. Until now, the local community has faced significant challenges in accessing clean water, especially during the dry season. The region’s geography—characterized by highlands with karst formations—makes it difficult to extract groundwater and limits accessibility. To address this, deep well drilling will be carried out using methods tailored to the geological conditions of Gunung Kidul. Water from the wells will then be distributed directly to households through a piped system.

More than just providing clean water, this program also includes the development of supporting infrastructure. Ten household toilets will be built, 25 houses will be renovated, and 8 public facilities will be repaired to improve residents’ quality of life. To ensure the program’s long-term impact, Habitat Indonesia will also offer a series of community trainings. These include hygiene and sanitation (PHBS) training, Healthy Homes and Basic Construction training for 250 residents.

In addition, 30 individuals will be trained as Water Management Committee members, who will be responsible for operating and maintaining the clean water facilities in their communities. Habitat Indonesia will also conduct a Clean and Healthy Lifestyle campaign involving up to 1,225 people to broaden the program’s positive impact at the community level.

The Journey of Habitat Indonesia’s Clean Water Program

In its first phase (2023–2024), the program was implemented in Babakan Madang Subdistrict, Bogor Regency, using mountain spring sources to provide clean water access to over 500 homes. Additionally, 30 household toilets were constructed, 30 houses renovated, and 12 public facilities—including maternal and child health centers (posyandu)—were improved in two villages: Karang Tengah and Kadumanggu.

In the second phase (2024–2025), the program was extended to Wringinanom Subdistrict in Gresik Regency. Here, Habitat Indonesia built 75 bore wells, delivering clean water to more than 1,500 homes. The initiative also included the construction of 20 household toilets, renovation of 20 homes, and refurbishment of 12 public facilities to support healthier and more dignified living conditions.

Across both regions, more than 2,000 residents have received training in hygiene and sanitation, Healthy Homes, and Basic Construction. These educational components are crucial to ensure that the physical infrastructure goes hand in hand with healthier, cleaner living habits.

Read also: Continuing Collaboration: Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and AWS Build an Auxiliary Public Health Center and Classrooms in Karawang

Clean Water That Transforms Lives

For residents like Sudarjat from Karang Tengah Village, the program has made a tangible difference in everyday life. “Alhamdulillah, now over 500 people have access to clean water. It flows directly to our taps at home, and we can use it for bathing, drinking, and other daily needs,” he shared.

“Having access to clean water changes everything. Our lives are so much more dignified and hygienic now. Before this, we had to rely on a small, polluted stream—especially during the dry season,” Sudarjat added.

Similar gratitude was expressed by Kasemi, a resident of Sooko Village, Wringinanom.
“I waited 12 years to have clean water in my own home. All this time, I had to borrow from my landlord—it was uncomfortable and embarrassing. Alhamdulillah, now I can bathe, wash, and cook in my own home,” she said gratefully.

Together, Let’s Achieve Equal Access to Clean Water

Access to clean water and proper sanitation is a fundamental human right, as stated in Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Number 6. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia remains committed to making this right a reality for communities still struggling to obtain it.

Through this program, Habitat Indonesia is not only building physical infrastructure, but also fostering hope and creating a healthier future for thousands of families. We invite all #SahabatHabitat to continue supporting and praying for the success of the clean water initiative in Gunung Kidul. You can also take part by donating at www.habitatindonesia.org/donations/membangun-air-bersih

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In a quiet corner of a village in Gresik Regency, a mother named Suparlik (52) lives with her only daughter. Since her husband passed away three years ago, life has moved at a slower pace. Every day, she struggles to make ends meet—working as a farm laborer, selling getuk (a traditional Indonesian cassava cake) door-to-door, and running a small food stall in front of her aging parents’ house.

For Suparlik, every rupiah she earns isn’t just money—it’s an expression of love for her daughter, who is still in high school, and a simple hope to keep life going.

But behind her determination, there’s a reality not many people see. Her fragile house was full of discomfort. A termite-eaten kitchen, a toilet without a door, and bamboo walls that were close to collapse made every night filled with fear.

“At night, I’m the most scared,” she said quietly. “I’m so afraid someone might peek in. I hold off going to the kitchen or bathroom until the morning. I’ve cried over it.”

Her living conditions weren’t just physically draining—they also slowly chipped away at her spirit. She often delayed her morning activities, waiting for daylight before she dared to move. Many times, she opened her food stall late in the day.

Amid all this, her biggest concern remained her daughter’s future. “She wants to continue school, to go to college,” Suparlik said softly, her eyes welling with tears. “But I don’t know how I’ll ever afford it.”

Read also: Twelve Years of Waiting, Kasemi’s Struggle to Obtain Clean Water Access

That hope finally came in mid-2024, when Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, along with donors and volunteers, arrived in Sooko Village, Wringinanom District. They rebuilt uninhabitable homes—including Suparlik’s. The kitchen and bathroom that once brought fear were transformed into safe, clean spaces.

“I’m so happy and grateful. I never thought I could have a kitchen this good. Alhamdulillah, I’m not dreaming,” Suparlik said emotionally. “I’m deeply thankful to Habitat and the donors. I have nothing to repay this.”

Since then, Suparlik’s days have changed. She wakes up early without fear, starts selling getuk at 3 a.m., and opens her stall earlier than before. Her income has started to increase.

“Alhamdulillah, by 8 a.m., my goods are sold out, and I can open my stall earlier. Little by little, this has improved my income,” she said.

With this change, Suparlik is reigniting the dream she once put aside—saving for her daughter’s college education. A dream that once seemed distant now feels within reach.

Suparlik’s story reflects the truth that a decent home is more than just a place to live—it’s a foundation of hope, a starting point for change, and a space to grow stronger. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia believes every family deserves a safe, healthy, and dignified home.

Through shelter, peace grows. From peace comes courage. And with courage, the future can be rebuilt. Help us pave the way for more families like Suparlik’s. Build a decent home, and build hope through www.habitatindonesia.org/donate.

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Tangerang Regency, March 18, 2025 – Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, in collaboration with Sinarmas World Academy (SWA), continues to demonstrate its commitment to building a better future for communities. Through the Build a Brighter Tomorrow program, 10 families in Kampung Cinamprak, Mauk Barat Village, Tangerang Regency, now have safe and comfortable homes. 

The key handover ceremony was symbolically conducted by the Chairman of SWA Foundation, Deddy Djaja Ria; Program Director of Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, Arwin Soelaksono; and representatives from the local government, including Mauk District Secretary Ahmad Saepul Anwar, Head of Institutional Affairs at the Tangerang Regency Department of Education and Culture, Nanang Chaeroni, and Head of the Tangerang Regency Regional Branch Office for the Banten Provincial Department of Education and Culture, Ahmad Suaheri. 

On this occasion, Nanang Chaeroni expressed deep appreciation for the established partnership. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for the efforts of Habitat and SWA in building decent homes in Kampung Cinamprak. This initiative truly brings a positive impact to the community,” he stated. 

A similar sentiment was shared by Ahmad Saepul Anwar. “On behalf of the local government, we express our deepest gratitude. I also hope that what Habitat and SWA have provided in this village will bring long-term benefits to the families receiving these homes,” he added. 

Meanwhile, Deddy Djaja Ria emphasized that this program is not just about building houses but also about building futures. “Our collaboration with Habitat in the Build a Brighter Tomorrow program is not merely about constructing houses but laying the foundation for families to live better, healthier, and more prosperous lives. May these new homes become places where happiness, hope, and brighter futures grow,” he said. 

Read also: A Blue Home and New Hope for Amalia’s Family

In addition to the key handover, the event also featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a volunteer initiative involving 17 SWA volunteers, including teachers, parents, and students. They participated in painting the walls of five housing units as a finishing touch to the construction. 

Janice, one of the SWA volunteers, shared her experience. “This is my third time joining a home-building project with Habitat. This time, I helped paint houses, and I felt truly happy because painting brings me peace. I hope what I did today helps the families here, and I will definitely recommend this activity to my school friends,” she said. 

Previously, SWA had conducted a similar volunteer initiative involving more than 30 volunteers who helped lay the foundations and install walls for decent housing units. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to provide safe housing for those in need. 

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia continues to invite young communities, schools, and other educational institutions to participate in creating a brighter future by building decent homes. Every small action taken together can lead to significant change, turning hope into reality and paving the way for a better life for communities across Indonesia. 

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