Meet Ibu Nimah, one of the women of Tanjung Kait Village who directly participated in building decent homes. 

Tangerang, October 2, 2025 – There is a spirit that cannot be extinguished in the simple figure of Ibu Nimah. Every morning, the 55-year-old woman starts her day with a small question in her heart: “What can I help with today? What can I do today?” This simple thought sparks the energy that keeps her strong, even though life has not always been easy. 

Ibu Nimah is one of the residents of Tanjung Kait Village, Tangerang Regency, whose house was rebuilt under the Tanjung Kait Village Revitalization Program. The program provided 110 new decent homes for residents, along with improved supporting infrastructure. For Nimah, the program is not just a physical project but an opportunity to leave a meaningful mark in rebuilding her village. 

The Beginning of the Journey 

At first, Nimah’s involvement in the project was simple. She only provided drinks and snacks for the workers busy building houses in her village. However, as days passed, she felt she wanted to do more. She realized that, even without enough money to repair her own house, she still had her energy to offer. “I have no money, nothing to give. But I have strength, and that’s what I can contribute,” she said. 

From that moment, Nimah no longer stood on the sidelines. She joined the community in gotong royong (cooperation), working alongside other residents, including women, to help the construction workers. 

Nimah’s involvement is inseparable from the condition of her old house. For decades, she lived in a home that grew increasingly fragile. The walls were cracked, the floor uneven, and the roof leaked whenever it rained. Worst of all, during high tides, her house would often flood. Saltwater would enter, damaging furniture, making walls damp, and causing further deterioration. 

As a widow who relied on her children’s income and occasional odd jobs like peeling clams, Nimah could not afford to repair her house. Anxiety constantly haunted her, especially during heavy rains combined with high tides. She never knew when her house might collapse. 

Gradually, her difficult situation found relief when the Tanjung Kait Village Revitalization Program came. Initiated by Habitat for Humanity Indonesia in collaboration with the Tangerang Regency Government, the Mitra Dhuafa Cooperative (KOMIDA), and supported by donors, the program was a blessing that answered Nimah’s long-held prayers. 

Read also: Strengthening Community Capacity as the Key too Sustaining the Tanjung Kait Village Revitalization

As construction began, Nimah felt increasingly compelled to participate. Knowing that her house was one of those being built, she wanted to leave her mark. Nimah contributed in ways she could—carrying light materials, tidying the work area, and even giving small touches to the walls. Though seemingly minor, every effort was a tangible form of involvement in building her dream home. 

“At first, the workers felt sorry for me. But after seeing my spirit, they got motivated too. I’m not ashamed, not embarrassed, because I know my effort can be useful,” she said, her face glowing. 

Nimah’s involvement brought a unique vibrancy amid the hustle of construction. Workers and other residents witnessed the determination of a woman who refused to give in to circumstances. The cooperation she joined strengthened social bonds in Tanjung Kait. 

For Nimah, every drop of sweat is a prayer. She believes that her efforts will leave beautiful memories, not only because she helped build her own home but also because she contributed to the future of her village. 

Today, Nimah’s new house is not yet fully completed. She is still busy with finishing touches, from sanding to painting the walls. Yet, she places great hope in the home. “I hope this new house can bring happiness, both physically and spiritually. A safe place for me and my children, a place where we can gather without fear of floods or a leaking roof,” she said with hope. 

Nimah’s wish is simple, yet deeply meaningful. She wants her new home to be a source of peace, a place where she no longer lives under the shadow of disaster, and a symbol of renewed spirit in her life. 

Read also: No More Shame, No More Fear: Ibu Uri’s Story with Her New Toilet

Women and Participation 

More than just building homes, Nimah’s story highlights an important issue: women’s involvement in community development. Construction work has long been considered men’s work, yet Nimah proves that women can play an active role, even with limited resources. 

Her spirit demonstrates how empowering women can have a positive impact. Her presence at the construction site shows that women are not just waiting for results—they can also be part of the process. In Tanjung Kait, the voices and efforts of women help build not only houses but also social cohesion and community independence. 

This story also teaches that contribution is not always measured by wealth or material. Despite her limitations, Nimah made a significant impact through her energy, dedication, and perseverance. Her story reflects that village revitalization is not just about constructing homes but also about building people through awareness, independence, and participation, including that of women. 

In the end, Ibu Nimah stands as a simple symbol carrying a profound meaning: anyone, regardless of who they are, can be part of meaningful change. 

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av) 

Tangerang, October 9, 2025 – The Tanjung Kait Village Revitalization Program has now entered its final phase. A total of 110 new decent homes built for residents are currently undergoing painting and finishing work as part of the project’s completion stage. In addition, the construction of supporting infrastructure such as a community health post (posyandu), community hall, fish collection center, electricity network, drainage system, and clean water facilities is also progressing in parallel. 

As part of efforts to ensure the sustainability of the program, Habitat for Humanity Indonesia has facilitated a community capacity-building and socialization program, held from September 22, 2025, for four weeks at Co Su Kong Temple, Tanjung Kait, Tangerang Regency. 

This initiative was designed as a community-managed system to ensure that the maintenance and management of revitalized facilities are carried out sustainably, inclusively, and transparently, while also fostering residents’ self-reliance. Through this forum, more than 30 community representatives from Tanjung Kait discussed various local environmental issues, including household waste management, drainage maintenance, and the use of public facilities. 

Read also: A Decent Home Becomes the Pillar of Life for Ibu Imas and Her Family

“Village revitalization doesn’t stop at building houses and infrastructure—it’s also about building awareness and community self-reliance. That’s how sustainability can be achieved,” explained Wijang Wijanarko, facilitator and housing and settlement consultant, during one of the sessions. 

The activity aims to establish a clear framework, roles, and coordination mechanisms for residents in managing their village; to ensure active participation in infrastructure maintenance; and to form a community-based management body, known as the Community Management Committee. 

The agenda was carried out in stages. During the first week, residents, community leaders, and village officials held a program orientation and formed an Environmental Management Team. In the following week, participants attended training sessions on environmental management and institutional administration, followed by the formulation of community regulations. The next phase focused on developing follow-up work plans, covering infrastructure maintenance, public facility management, and community financial mechanisms. The entire series of activities will conclude with a plenary meeting and symbolic handover ceremony in mid-October. 

Through this approach, residents are not only beneficiaries but also key actors in maintaining and advancing their community. With the completion of the final construction phase and the community capacity-building program, Tanjung Kait Village is expected to become a model of best practices for coastal area transformation toward a more livable, healthy, and empowered environment. 

Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av) 

There is a joy that cannot be hidden on the face of Imas Laelasari (52). That smile comes from the presence of a simple yet decent home that brings a sense of security, peace, and a glimmer of new hope for her and her three children. In Gunung Putri, Bogor Regency, the house with red and gray walls now stands sturdy, replacing the old fragile building filled with anxiety. 

Since 2015, Imas had lived in a house far from decent. The structure, lacking strength, caused cracks in the walls. The roof leaked, the tiled floor was broken, and every night she had to pray that the house would not collapse on her small family. “One night, I was watching TV with my eldest child when suddenly the roof tiles fell. I panicked. I was afraid it could collapse on me and the children at any moment,” Imas recalled. 

She had long prayed that her home could become safe again. She still remembered the words of her late husband before he passed away eight years ago: “Don’t ever sell this house, Mah, so our children can live in it later.” That message remained deeply rooted, so even as the house deteriorated, she stayed. However, repairing the house was not easy. For daily needs, Imas could only rely on her children’s often unpredictable income. 

“If this house collapsed, I truly wouldn’t know where to live. So all I could do was pray that there would be a way,” she said quietly. 

Read also: A Decent Home Transforms the Future of the Iqballudin Family

The answer finally came. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, in collaboration with Prudential Indonesia through the Desa Maju Prudential Program, rebuilt Imas’s home. The walls now stand strong, the roof is solid, the floors are neat, and the interior is far more comfortable. The toilet, which once terrified her because of snakes, is now clean and safe to use. 

“Alhamdulillah, I am very happy and deeply grateful to everyone who helped my family. Everything has changed so much. I no longer fear or worry that the house will collapse,” Imas said with relief. 

More than just a building, this home provides Imas with a sense of safety. She no longer fears that the walls will crumble, worries about intruders, or feels anxious during heavy rains. 

The house also sparks new energy. Soon after it was completed, Imas sought capital to start selling snacks in front of her house. She wants to use this new space as a starting point for a small business, gradually moving toward independence. 

“This house is my treasure. If my husband were still here, he would surely be happy to see it,” she said, holding back tears. 

The transformation experienced by Imas aligns with the broader goals of the third phase of the Desa Maju Prudential Program, which began in November 2024. The program not only builds houses like Imas’s but also has a wide-ranging impact on the community. It has constructed 27 new decent homes, 21 new household toilets, renovated 4 educational and public facilities, provided machines to turn waste into plastic pellets, conducted waste management training for 210 participants, trained 75 waste management officers, and offered education on basic healthy housing construction, clean and healthy living habits, and disaster mitigation for the community. 

For some, a house may only be seen as a place to shelter. But for Imas, this new home is a symbol of a new life. From this house, she has regained spirit, hope, and courage to move forward with her children. 

Writter: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

That afternoon, precisely at four o’clock, sunlight softly filtered through the leaves and fell on the blue walls of Iqballudin’s new house. The walls stood firm, as if bearing witness to the significant changes in the life of this small family in Babakan Madang, Bogor Regency. The Habitat for Humanity Indonesia team visited Iqballudin’s home once again, now fully habitable. There was a sense of pride in seeing how the family cared for their new house. Just one day after construction was completed, Iqballudin had already built a simple kitchen on his own, a clear sign of his determination to provide a better life for his wife and children. 

Before this new house arrived, the Iqballudin family’s life was full of limitations. Iqballudin, a 41-year-old day laborer, relied on a daily wage of only IDR 50,000 to meet the family’s basic needs. Together with his wife, Siti Romyanah (36), a homemaker, they raised three school-aged children. Yet their old house made everything much more difficult. 

Their previous home had no foundation, consisting merely of a simple structure made of GRC panels and woven bamboo. Without a kitchen or toilet, the family had to depend on relatives’ homes for cooking and bathing. To make matters worse, termites began to infest the walls and pillars, further weakening the structure. 

With tears in her eyes, Siti recalled the constant fear that haunted her. “The termites had reached the top. I felt like the house was going to collapse. I was very worried about the children. If there was a leak, I was afraid the kids would get sick, especially the little one,” she said, her voice trembling. 

Those memories became part of a long journey, living in a home that never provided a sense of safety. Nights were often shadowed by anxiety, especially when heavy rains fell. 

However, all of that changed through the CEO Build 2025 event. Thanks to the support of Mr. Edwin Soeryadjaya in collaboration with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, a new house for the Iqballudin family finally stood tall. The house is sturdy, safe, and vastly different from the fragile structure they had before. 

Iqballudin could not hide his emotion as he expressed his gratitude. “Alhamdulillah, I feel very happy and grateful. My house is now very solid, unlike before when it was fragile and almost collapsing,” he said with a sense of relief. 

Siti added with a calmer smile, “There are so many changes. At least now we can sleep peacefully every night without worry. The children are happy, and we are all happy.” 

Read also: Building Indonesia: POSCO and Habitat for Humanity Collaborate to Provide Decent Homes in Cilegon

This transformation is not just about the physical building. Its impact is deeply felt in daily life. Their children are now healthier, no longer exposed to leaks, dampness, and termites. They no longer have to go back and forth to grandparents’ houses just to bathe or use a toilet. Their privacy is better protected, hygiene is improved, and the children’s overall health has increased. 

The effect on the children’s education is also significant. A safe and comfortable home allows them to study without worrying about a leaking roof. A healthier home environment gives them the opportunity to focus on school. Iqballudin believes that this house will be the foundation for his children’s future. “At least now the children can study calmly. I want them to get the highest education possible so that their future will be better than mine,” he said with hope. 

Furthermore, the new house has boosted the family’s confidence. There is no longer any shame when neighbors or relatives visit. They now have a proper space to welcome guests—a place they can truly call home. 

With heartfelt gratitude, Iqballudin once again expressed his thanks. “I am truly grateful to Mr. Edwin and Habitat for this new house. This support means so much to me and my family. May Allah bless this kindness many times over,” he said sincerely. 

From a simple home that now stands strong, new hope grows for this small family. A house not only protects from rain and heat but also becomes a place where children’s dreams, health, and future can grow strong. Behind every standing wall lies the story that change is always possible when care is turned into concrete action. 

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

A lively morning greeted the faces of young children as they stepped into the schoolyard. Their cheerful laughter echoed as they ran, carrying their small backpacks. In the hallway, their singing harmonized, creating a simple melody that brought the atmosphere to life. This day wasn’t just the first day back after a long holiday; it was a vibrant new beginning for RA Dwi Tunas Bangsa, a school in Tangerang Regency that now seemed to have been reborn. 

The school building, once fragile, now stands strong. The structure has been reinforced, the leaky roof has been replaced, and every corner of the rooms has been renovated to be safer. The bright yellow walls make the school feel warm and welcoming. The two classrooms are now spacious and comfortable, the teacher’s room has become a proper place for discussions, and most importantly, a new, hygienic, and safe toilet has been built for the children. All of this makes RA Dwi Tunas Bangsa feel like a second home, fit for a young generation full of dreams. 

However, the current condition is vastly different from the school’s past. For over a decade, the building had slowly deteriorated. The paint faded, some walls were cracked, the roof leaked when it rained, and the classrooms felt stuffy without proper ventilation. The school’s toilet had long been out of order, forcing children to use a neighbor’s house whenever they needed to go. This situation not only made them uncomfortable but also risked their health and lowered their self-confidence. 

Due to the limited facilities, the number of students dropped dramatically. Only about 15 students remained. Many parents were hesitant to enroll their children at RA Dwi Tunas Bangsa, not because of the quality of teaching, but because the building was considered unfit. For Agustini, the headmistress, this was a heavy burden. She wanted the children in her community to receive a proper early education, but the lack of facilities made the struggle difficult. 

Read also: A Bright Future for Children Through Housing & Technology in Rajeg-Tangerang

Good news finally arrived when Habitat for Humanity saw the situation and decided to step in. This collaboration didn’t just fix a building; it revived hope. A comprehensive renovation was carried out. The building structure was reinforced, the roof was repaired, classrooms were updated, the teacher’s room was reorganized, and a new, proper, and hygienic toilet was built. 

“The help to build these school facilities has truly helped us. Now we can accept more students. From just 15, the number of students has doubled. Now more than 30 children are studying here,” said Agustini with a relieved smile. 

For Agustini, it’s not just the number of students that has increased. More than that, the learning environment has become much more pleasant. “The most important thing is the safe new classrooms, the roof that doesn’t leak, and the proper toilet facilities. The children feel at home, and the teachers are more motivated. A comfortable learning environment truly makes a big difference,” she added. 

This change is tangible for both students and teachers. The children can now learn peacefully without feeling hot. The teachers can focus on teaching without worrying about facility limitations. The school is no longer just a makeshift place, but a space truly worthy of nurturing dreams. 

Education is the foundation of the future. A decent school building isn’t just about walls and a roof; it’s a place that instills values, character, and hope. Every bright color on the walls of RA Dwi Tunas Bangsa symbolizes a new spirit. Every child’s laughter is proof that adequate access to education truly paves the way for a brighter future. 

“I hope this school becomes a support for children in achieving their future. We want them to grow up confident, healthy, and daring to dream,” Agustini concluded with great hope. 

From this simple hallway in Tangerang Regency, we learn that the future of children should not be limited by the condition of a fragile building. With collaboration and care, a strong and comfortable school can become the starting point for the next generation to go further.  

Writer: Kevin Herbian

(kh/av)

Tangerang, September 3, 2025 – Kakaobank has once again partnered with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia in the program titled “2025 Kakaobank Connect Village: ICT Education, Quality of Education, and Access to Technology.” This initiative aims to improve the quality of education and access to technology in the Rajeg District, Tangerang Regency, while also supporting the construction of decent homes for low-income families.

A total of around 50 volunteers from Kakaobank Korea and Superbank Indonesia actively participated in the three-day program, held from September 1 to 3, 2025. The program successfully built 17 decent homes and established an educational facility in the form of an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Laboratory at SMP Bhakti Pertiwi. The lab is equipped with 21 new computers, supporting e-learning activities and the development of students’ digital skills.

Rajeg District faces significant economic challenges. Among the five villages designated as extreme poverty zones, three were prioritized for poverty alleviation programs. Many students from low-income families live in homes that do not adequately support their growth and development, affecting both their physical well-being and their ability to focus on education. This program addresses the real challenges faced by children from low-income families, particularly those with special needs or limited access to digital education.

Read also: Kakaobank with Habitat for Humanity Indonesia: Enhancing the Quality of Education in Mauk

Hayden Shin, Corporate Support Group/Head of Group Executive Vice President Kakaobank Korea stated, “We are proud to contribute to enhancing educational and technological access for children in Rajeg. Through this collaboration, we hope to create a better learning environment and support the growth of children from underprivileged families.”

Handoko Ngadiman, National Director at Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, added, “This collaboration demonstrates the importance of synergy between the private sector and humanitarian organizations. In addition to providing decent housing, the ICT laboratory will enhance the quality of education at SMP Bhakti Pertiwi, giving students adequate access to technology and supporting modern learning.”

The 2025 Kakaobank Connect Village program serves as a tangible demonstration of Kakaobank’s commitment to supporting education and community well-being, while reinforcing Habitat for Humanity Indonesia’s efforts to provide decent housing and adequate educational facilities for low-income communities in Rajeg.

Watch the video to see how KakaoBank Korea volunteers helped build decent homes and made a real impact on the community.

Writer: Syefira Salsabilla

Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

Video: HFHI/Budi Ariyanto

(av-kh)

Cilegon, August 14, 2025 – Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, together with POSCO and KRAKATAU POSCO, has once again joined hands for the “2025 POSCO 1% Foundation Echo Village” program, held from August 10–14, 2025, in the Ciwandan and Citangkil sub-districts of Cilegon City. A total of 44 participants—comprising 24 POSCO Korea volunteers and 20 staff members from PT Krakatau POSCO—took part in the initiative. This program is part of a long-standing collaboration spanning over a decade between POSCO and Habitat for Humanity, aimed at improving the quality of life for low-income communities.

The 2025 activities focused on building six environmentally friendly homes for low-income families in Kubangsari, Tegal Ratu, and Samangraya. These houses feature eco-brick walls made from recycled plastic waste, rainwater harvesting systems, and septic tanks with soak pits for safe sanitation. The designs meet the Ministry of Public Works and Housing’s standards for decent housing, as well as the Ministry of Health’s healthy home indicators—ensuring structural safety, proper ventilation, natural lighting, and adequate space for family privacy.

Beyond home construction, the program also included school facility renovations, Healthy Home and Building Back Safer (BBS) training for 50 participants, and disaster preparedness initiatives in Samangraya. This involved training 50 members of Urban Disaster Preparedness Team (TSBK) and supporting the community’s application for the official “Disaster-Resilient Urban Village” (KALTANA) status with the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). Achieving this status would open access to official resources, funding, and support, while empowering residents to better anticipate and respond to future risks.

The program concluded on August 14, 2025, with a key handover ceremony and the presentation of a framed certificate as a symbolic gesture of delivering the house to the beneficiary family. The ceremony was followed by a traditional pencak silat performance by the local community and a dance performance presented by volunteers from Korea.

Read also: Beyond Borders: POSCO and Habitat for Humanity Collaborate to Build a Better Future

Deputy Mayor of Cilegon, Fajar Hadi Prabowo, expressed his appreciation for this collaboration. “We would like to thank POSCO and Habitat for Humanity for the decent housing construction program for the people of Cilegon. This program is align with the government’s initiatives. We hope Cilegon can follow in the footsteps of POSCO and Habitat to build more decent houses for the people of Cilegon,” he said.

Abraham Tulung, General Manager of Resource Development at Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, expressed his gratitude to POSCO, “We deeply appreciate our long-standing partnership with POSCO. Through this collaboration, countless families have experienced real, tangible change in their lives. We hope this partnership continues and inspires more people to join us in building safe and healthy homes.”

The 2025 POSCO 1% Foundation Echo Village program is proof that cross-border collaboration can create meaningful change. With a shared spirit of solidarity and compassion, this initiative has sown optimism for the future of families in Cilegon—turning Habitat for Humanity’s vision of ‘a world where everyone has a decent place to live’ into a reality.

Watch the video to see how POSCO volunteers helped build decent homes and made a real impact on the community.

Writer: Syefira Salsabilla

Photo: HFHI/Kevin Herbian

Video: HFHI/Budi Ariyanto

(av-kh)

That day, Ibu Uri (54) couldn’t hide her gratitude. After more than thirty years of waiting, she finally had access to proper sanitation—just like many other families. Her eyes welled with tears as she stood in front of the small orange-colored structure that now stood firmly inside her home. “I never imagined this would happen. This toilet is the first real help my family has ever received,” she whispered, still in disbelief. 

For more than three decades, Uri lived with her only daughter, Ella (30), under poor sanitation conditions. For bathing, they used a makeshift space with just a cement plaster floor. For defecation, they shared a simple wooden and plastic tarp latrine without a roof with four other families. “It was never easy back then,” she recalled. “We were scared to use the toilet at night. The kids always asked to be accompanied.” 

This bitter memory also lingers in Ella’s mind, who now has two children aged nine and five. She vividly remembers the time she was pregnant with her second child. “One time I slipped because the floor was so slippery. My foot fell into the latrine hole, and the wooden boards collapsed. I was terrified and cried uncontrollably,” she recounted. 

The rainy season made things worse. Overflowing latrine pits would contaminate the yard, creating a strong stench and deep embarrassment. “It often smelled terrible, especially when it rained. Sometimes it would flood the yard. When guests came, it was so embarrassing. One even asked, ‘Why is the toilet like a fishpond?’ My mom and I were mortified,” Ella added. 

Sanitation issues like those faced by Uri and Ella are not isolated cases. According to 2024 BPS data, 89.38% of families in Tangerang Regency have access to proper toilets. That still leaves around 10.62% of families without adequate sanitation facilities. 

Economic hardship is the main barrier. Uri, who once worked as a waste collector, can no longer work due to a respiratory illness. The family’s only income comes from Ella, who works as a daily laborer at a plastic container factory, earning around Rp67,000 (about USD 4) per day. This barely covers essentials like rice and the children’s school money. Uri’s husband, Acin, passed away when Ella was only eight years old. 

“There’s no way we could afford to build a toilet,” Uri said quietly. “Sometimes it’s even hard to buy food.” She added with hope in her voice, “I just wanted a proper toilet like other people, so we wouldn’t have to feel ashamed anymore.” 

But life holds surprises. Good news finally came to Uri’s doorstep. Habitat for Humanity Indonesia, in partnership with PT Mitra Pinasthika Mustika Tbk (MPM), built toilets for Uri’s family and five other families facing similar conditions in Rajeg District, Tangerang Regency. 

Uri recalls the moment construction materials arrived at her house. “I was so thankful. I really didn’t believe it at first—when the materials actually showed up, I thought it was a joke,” she said, smiling as she pointed to the bright orange walls of her new toilet. 

The toilet is more than just a structure. It transformed habits, improved hygiene, and brought peace of mind. “It’s changed everything—from our daily routines to how much cleaner and healthier our lives are now,” Ella shared with enthusiasm. 

There are no more scary trips to the latrine at night, no more overflowing pits, and most importantly, no more shame. “The kids are much cleaner now, they bathe more often. Thank God they no longer complain about bad smells or itchy skin like before,” Ella added, her face glowing with joy. 

Behind the modest walls of that toilet, a new hope has emerged. Uri now dreams of gradually improving the rest of her home. “Now that the toilet is nice, I want to start fixing up the house bit by bit,” she said, looking around the small home that shelters her family. 

To some, a toilet may seem like a small thing. But for families like Uri and Ella’s, having access to safe sanitation is a dream come true. That toilet represents dignity, comfort, and health. 

From this small family’s story, we’re reminded that real change often begins with the most basic human need: access to proper sanitation. Support more families like Ibu Uri’s through: habitatindonesia.org/donate

(kh/av)

Yogyakarta, 2 August 2025 – Behind the green hills of Nglipar, Gunungkidul, lies the true story of the Pengkol Village community’s struggle against drought. Every drop of clean water is precious—not just for daily needs, but also as the first line of defense to protect the health of families and the future of their children. 

However, water isn’t just about availability. It’s also about awareness, knowledge, and real action. This was the spirit of the event titled “Clean Water, Healthy Lives: Together We Protect Water for Nglipar’s Future” on Saturday, August 2, 2025. Over 200 residents, from children and housewives to community leaders and youth organization members, gathered at the Pengkol Village Hall to participate in a series of educational, interactive, and fun activities. 

The morning began with a Germas exercise that sparked enthusiasm and served as a reminder that a healthy body starts with small movements. The children were excited to participate in a hygiene-themed coloring contest, while adults were invited to explore learning booths on clean and healthy living behaviors (PHBS), such as managing clean water and practicing proper handwashing. 

Each booth was presented in an easy-to-understand way, complete with interactive games and entertaining quizzes. Not only did participants gain knowledge, but those who completed the quizzes also received a hygiene kit as a token of appreciation. 

Read also: Habitat for Humanity Indonesia Brings Clean Water Access to Gunung Kidul

Ibu Tini, a manager of the Pengkol Village Balai Pintar Library, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, “Today’s activities were so much fun. The kids were all happy to join the coloring contest and listen to stories, and the mothers and fathers were happy to participate in the PHBS booth quizzes and get hygiene kits as prizes. I hope Habitat can continue to hold beneficial events like this for the community, especially for Pengkol Village.” 

This event wasn’t just about education. It was a shared space to build new habits, foster a sense of care, and grow a collective awareness: clean water is everyone’s responsibility, clean and healthy living can start at home, and big changes always begin with small steps. 

“In the village, we often don’t wash our hands properly, we just rub them together. But from this event, we were reminded how to wash our hands correctly so we can avoid diseases,” said Ibu Masikem, a Pengkol Village resident. 

Habitat for Humanity Indonesia collaborated with community leaders, volunteers, and local communities to ensure this event had a real impact. This included efforts to find local leaders who could become WASH Champions, agents of change from within their own communities. Because we believe a decent home, clean water, and a healthy environment are everyone’s right. 

From one small village, we can ignite great inspiration. From one small step, we can create a cleaner and healthier future for generations today and tomorrow. 

Writer: Syefira Salsabilla

Foto: HFHI/Patrik Cahyo

(av-kh)

“It’s completely different now… I no longer have to bow my head when entering the house because of how small it used to be. This home is more than decent—it’s truly beautiful. It’s an incredible blessing for my family.” 

That’s what Mr. Dewy Loek shared with eyes full of gratitude when the Habitat for Humanity Indonesia team visited his new, sturdy home in East Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara. His words came from a heart long filled with silent hope. That evening, the Habitat team wasn’t just talking about construction—they were listening to a life slowly changing. 

For Mr. Dewy, this house is the answer to years of heartfelt prayers. Before, he lived with his wife and two children in a simple square-shaped structure with a dirt floor, lontar-leaf walls, and a thatched roof. There were no partitions, no ventilation, and no bathroom. Everything happened in one cramped space they all had to share. 

During the dry season, the air inside became stifling and unbearably hot. With no windows for airflow, his children often woke up in the middle of the night drenched in sweat. But in the rainy season, conditions were even worse—leaking roofs let rainwater pour in, turning the floor into mud. Many nights, they had to move the children off their soaked mattresses. 

That worry was a daily companion. Mr. Dewy knew this wasn’t a safe place to raise his children. But as a farm laborer and fisherman, he had few options. The little savings he managed to gather would always be spent on temporary repairs. In the midst of such limitations, all he could do was keep praying—day after day. 

Read also: Living in Decent Homes, Hundreds of Families in Gresik Are Ready to Build a Brighter Future

Then, finally, a helping hand reached out. With support from Habitat for Humanity Indonesia and PT Arthawenasakti Gemilang, a new home was built—a home with two bedrooms, a proper toilet, and a strong structure. Bright yellow walls now replaced the old palm leaves and thatch that once served as their only shelter. 

“I still can’t believe it,” Mr. Dewy said. “This house is so comfortable. The children are happy—they each have their own room now. No more stories of wet beds or sweating through the night.” 

During the building process, Mr. Dewy was far from idle. He helped the builders, carried materials, and prepared meals as best he could. He did it all with full spirit, even though the family’s economic situation remained tight. For him, this house was a gift he wanted to help build with his own hands—for his wife and children. 

Now, the home stands firm, bringing about many changes. The children can play and study without fear. His wife, Nuh Loek, feels much more at peace. They now have a clean indoor toilet—a huge leap from the past, when they had to relieve themselves outdoors with no privacy. The house has brought them health, comfort, and a sense of security they had never known. 

More than that, for the first time, Mr. Dewy is able to save money. What was once spent on constant repairs can now go toward his children’s education. He looks to the future with new confidence and a heart no longer weighed down by anxiety. 

For the Dewy family, this house is more than just a building. It’s the beginning of a better life—a place where children can grow, learn, and dream. A place where a husband and wife can rest without fearing a collapsing roof or a flooded floor. 

And to this day, Mr. Dewy continues to pray. But now, those prayers are no longer just for himself. He prays for his brothers and sisters who still live under fragile roofs and behind cracked walls. He prays that they too may be blessed with a decent home—a place where hope can safely anchor, just like the one he now has. 

Mr. Dewy’s story is just one among many unheard voices from families living in substandard housing. Voices that begin to be heard when someone cares—when someone chooses to act. Many more families are still waiting for that same hope: a safe, healthy, and decent home to grow with their loved ones. 

If this story touches you, you too can be part of this journey of change. Learn how at habitatindonesia.org/donate, because a decent home should not be a dream—it should be a reality for every family. 

(kh/av)