owever, some of the beneficiaries from the PENA Program are still hesitant to move on from receiving regular aid due to their income still standing below the minimum wage of their respective cities and districts.

In response to this issue, Rismaharini visited regions to encourage beneficiaries to move forward and stop being social assistance beneficiaries so that other people in need could benefit from the aid.

In November, a total of 10,073 KPMs of the PENA Program were declared ready to graduate. Persons with disabilities account for most of the graduates.

The Ministry of Social Affairs has also been taking responsive measures to reduce the number of poverty pockets. In fact, Rismaharini has paid visits to 3T regions, such as Asmat District in South Papua, Nunukan and Sebatik islands in North Kalimantan, and Mapia Islands in Papua.

Moreover, the ministry has been distributing aid to regions affected by the global heat phenomenon El Nino-induced disasters in various regions throughout 2023, including the famine-hit districts of Yahukimo and Puncak in Central Papua Province.

This year, the ministry also devised several innovative aid programs, such as social aid dedicated to orphans as well as food assistance targeting children living in social shelters, persons with disabilities, and the elderly living alone. The budget for the implementation of the programs in 2024 has been prepared.

All efforts made by the Ministry of Social Affairs in 2023 serve as manifestations of its commitment to creating a more just and empowered society. It should be noted that the ministry’s programs do not merely revolve around financial assistance, as they also touch upon aspects of education, health, and people’s participation.

By consistently strengthening and expanding its efforts, Indonesia will succeed in overcoming poverty challenges and building a better future for its people.

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Translator: Devi N, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Anton Santoso
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