"That way, we can formulate the Ministry of Social Affairs' targets well," he said during a meeting on Tuesday as cited in a statement.
He said he expects the recommendations and discussions regarding the challenges faced by social workers at the forum to be followed up in a more concrete manner.
He added that his ministry welcomes input to improve policies for social aid beneficiaries.
"Thank you for your participation. I am looking forward to holding regular meetings. We can routinely observe and respond to the dynamics in the field," he said.
Meanwhile, Yusuf's deputy, Agus Jabo Priyono, said that social workers must be actively involved in the ministry's social empowerment programs so that the community can become independent and exit poverty.
Priyono stated that the outdated view of the ministry as merely a guardian for the poor and vulnerable must change.
"We do not want to focus solely on social assistance issues but also on improving the community's quality of life," he said.
So far, the ministry's efforts have primarily focused on social security protection and rehabilitation, rather than on social empowerment, Priyono noted.
Therefore, he said he wants to highlight regions that have successfully brought their citizens out of poverty.
"That way, the people's perspective can change, not only merely waiting for assistance," he added.
Priyono emphasized that empowerment involves productivity and ensuring employment to lift people out of poverty.
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Translator: Hana K, Kenzu
Editor: Anton Santoso
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