Jakarta (ANTARA) - Social workers are needed to help overcome various social problems in Indonesia, an official at the Ministry of Social Affairs stated on Saturday.

"The government hopes to continue the partnership with social workers because social problems in society cannot be solved by one entity alone," said Pepen Nazaruddin, Director General of Social Rehabilitation.

During a coordination meeting of the National Association of Community Social Workers (IPSM) in Jakarta, he said that the IPSM is essential for both the government and society, as the association has worked for the past 48 years.

"Social problems will always occur, depending on the situation and conditions," he said, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with the IPSM.

IPSM Chairman, Andriansyah, stated that the existence of social workers is recognized by the government in Regulation Number 10 issued by the Minister of Social Affairs in 2019.

"Social workers are individuals who have the responsibility to help their communities," he explained.

They are sincere people who help improve the welfare of others and bring a positive impact to the community, he added.

"Social workers and their programs should provide benefits to the community," he remarked.

Andriansyah noted that the meeting on Saturday aims to align their values, interests, and passion to serve the community with concrete actions to promote equitable social welfare for all.

"The existence of the IPSM not only pursues organizational image but must be able to implement social work values, minimum service standards, and social and environmental balance in its strategy," he remarked.

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Translator: Indriani, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Anton Santoso
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