The minister said that this year's National Social Solidarity Day (HKSN) commemoration was primarily for volunteers and Tagana who were working in the field, especially those dealing with the earthquake in Cianjur district, West Java.
"The main event is in the field: volunteers who are currently working in Cianjur, Disaster Response Cadets, volunteers who are currently working hard to meet the needs of Cianjur residents," she said.
According to Rismaharini, the solidarity of volunteers and cadets all over Indonesia has been proven by their constant support right till the end of disaster mitigation efforts.
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The solidarity index of volunteers and Disaster Response Cadets has also been demonstrated by their initiative to go to disaster-affected locations by themselves, without waiting to be asked.
Their presence has also eased the burden on government funding for disaster mitigation.
“Currently there are those who have moved, Disaster Response Cadets, and without being asked. But if we do it together, it will not only bring prosperity, not only peace, but it will also save us a lot of money," the minister said.
The HKSN commemoration coincided with that of International Day of Disabilities, which was hosted at the Social Affairs Ministry's units in some areas and was themed “Rising Together to Build the Nation.”
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The two commemorations are based on the belief that every citizen can make a profound contribution, not only to the government, but also social institutions, social pillars, and even the business sector.
HKSN was commemorated through activities to promote better social participation, solidarity, harmony, mutual assistance, empathy, sharing, and tolerance.
The activities included the renovation of the homes of people with disabilities, establishment of clean water facilities, construction of schools, and organization of cataract surgeries at 31 sites.
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Translator: Devi N S R, Mecca Yumna
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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