Social Affairs Minister Tri Rismaharini stated in Bandung, West Java, that PENA Muda aims to assist youth aged 23-30 years from families who received social assistance. According to the minister, some 82 people have so far received assistance under the program.
"We will offer trainings because as an example given prior, they can (establish) businesses. However, due to lacking financial management skills, the business cannot develop," the minister elaborated.
Rismaharini said she came to know of these young people after fixing the Integrated Social Welfare Data (DTKS). The ministry then offered them to learn about developing their business in the PENA Muda program, she remarked.
According to the minister, the young people are either unemployed or work as laborers. She opined that these youngsters are creative and have vast experience as is apparent from the products they create, such as dolls. However, she did point to their lacking financial skills.
"Thus, we also work with OJK (Financial Services Authority), (and) we also work with BI (Bank of Indonesia). We also work with some institutions that are willing to help us in giving trainings (in order to) transform the businesses which they have pursued," she elaborated.
She opined that if they merely depend on their salary as laborers, then they would get just the minimum wage. However, with newfound knowledge, they can multiply their income, she remarked.
Rismaharini cited the example of a lady from Dompu, West Nusa Tenggara, who was the ministry's beneficiary. She earlier earned Rp100 thousand daily from selling foods. However, the minister highlighted that since having gained knowledge on presenting foods in a more appealing way, the lady was able to earn Rp10 million daily and employ several people.
According to the minister, although the program does not address the issue of poverty of an entire family, it can at least enable one family member to lead a better life.
Apart from simple financial literacy, PENA Muda also extends consultation services, such as business research and development, as well as online marketing.
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Reporter: Mecca Yumna Ning Prisie
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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