The activity followed Gibran’s review of a women’s empowerment initiative in the region, according to a statement released by his secretariat in Jakarta.
It involved children from five villages in Genteng sub-district -- Genteng Kulon, Genteng Wetan, Kaligondo, Setail, and Kembiritan.
Accompanied by their families and village representatives, the children purchased a variety of items, such as notebooks, rulers, and coloring pencils, during their shopping trip.
The Vice Presidential Secretariat said that Gibran’s initiative is a testament to the government’s commitment to empowering residents and instilling optimism about a bright future in young people, especially those from poor families.
The activity is also expected to be a memorable experience for the children ahead of the new academic year.
In the same statement, head of the Banyuwangi Women’s Empowerment and Family Planning Office, Henik Setyorini, expressed her belief that the shopping activity would have a positive psychological effect on the children.
“This initiative will certainly bring a positive impact on the children psychologically, making them happy and joyful. This activity can also motivate them,” she pointed out.
She said that the Banyuwangi district government intends to emulate the Vice President’s initiative on July 7, 2025, by encouraging civil servants and state-owned enterprise employees to purchase school supplies for children in need from micro, small, and medium enterprises.
“Of course, we will adopt this activity, combining it with existing programs of the district government,” she added.
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Translator: Fathur R, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Primayanti
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