Stories of Change
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)
