"Note that our programs are not limited to social assistance; they also aim to empower the poor by building their skills and capacity. Through mainstream media like ANTARA, we can inform the public about the impacts of such programs," Yusuf said.
He made the statement while receiving ANTARA representatives and journalists at his office in Jakarta on Thursday.
On this occasion, Yusuf sought help from the media to promote a range of social welfare and empowerment programs organized by the ministry, assuring the public that the state is present and ready to assist them.
He cited examples of the Family Hope Program (PKH) and various forms of assistance for underprivileged people, the elderly, persons with disabilities, orphans, and victims of disaster.
"These programs, which require a large budget, are designed to assist the people. Therefore, we need the media to help us oversee their implementation and inform the public about them," he emphasized.
Yusuf called on the media to spotlight the work of "social companions," as they play a prominent role in the implementation of his office's programs.
He also expressed his support for the government collaborating with mainstream media outlets to combat hoaxes.
ANTARA's news director, Irfan Junaidi, responded to the minister's remarks, saying that the national news agency is ready to create a special podcast dedicated to disseminating reliable information on the government's social welfare programs.
Alluding to false information, he mentioned that ANTARA already has an anti-hoax program that validates facts and debunks misinformation.
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Translator: Lintang B, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Anton Santoso
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