"In the past, we tended to focus poverty alleviation efforts on the distribution of social assistance. However, our goal now is to ensure that the assistance provided can empower beneficiaries," he noted in a statement cited here on Monday.
Speaking during a public discussion on poverty reduction in Bandung District, West Java, on Saturday (June 21), Iskandar emphasized that the government seeks to guide residents—especially those of productive age—to avoid dependence on government aid.
"Indonesian citizens should not receive social assistance for more than five years. After five years, they must emerge as stronger and more independent individuals," he remarked, adding that the government intends to focus direct assistance on the elderly and people with disabilities.
Bearing this in mind, the minister affirmed his commitment to redirecting the annual social aid budget of Rp500 trillion (over US$30 billion) to fund community empowerment initiatives as a more effective strategy for eliminating poverty.
To this end, Iskandar emphasized the importance of synergy among all stakeholders, including the public, to create an enabling ecosystem.
"Of course, this effort requires collaboration with businesses. We need all stakeholders to be involved," he stressed.
The minister made similar remarks earlier on June 19, saying that a new approach based on education is necessary to address poverty in the country.
“Education is the most effective way to break the chain of poverty,” he stated at a public dialogue held at State Islamic University (UIN) Walisongo Semarang in Central Java.
Iskandar encouraged educational institutions to take center stage in supporting community empowerment programs.
Related news: Legislator optimistic that Sekolah Rakyat can help alleviate poverty
Related news: Need new approach to address poverty, Minister Iskandar says
Related news: Indonesia making calculated changes to alleviate poverty
Translator: Anita P, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
