“President Prabowo has a deep concern for the people. His programs are designed to expand economic and educational access while breaking the cycle of poverty in villages,” Karding said in a statement from the ministry (KP2MI).
Karding outlined several priority programs aimed at improving the welfare of low-income communities, including families of Indonesian migrant workers. One of the government’s initiatives is to strengthen village cooperatives, which are expected to accelerate the distribution of community-based products by directly linking village producers with companies, without lengthy bureaucratic procedures.
“Previously, we had to go through many processes and regulations. Now it has been made simple, fast, precise, efficient, and affordable,” Karding explained.
He also introduced the Sekolah Rakyat (People’s School) program, a free boarding school for children from underprivileged families. All educational needs, including tuition, accommodation, and extracurricular activities, are fully covered by the state.
“The goal is clear, children from poor families should not be trapped in the cycle of poverty. If their father is a pedicab driver, their children still have the opportunity to pursue better careers, even abroad,” he said.
Karding underlined the important role Indonesian migrant workers play in the national economy. Each year, they contribute around Rp253 trillion (approximately US$15.5 billion) in foreign exchange to Indonesia.
“Calling Indonesian migrant workers heroes of foreign exchange is not just a slogan. The state must be present and provide real protection for them,” he stressed.
He added that the establishment of the Ministry of P2MI reflects the government’s commitment to accelerating the placement of skilled workers overseas while also enhancing their protection and empowerment.
“Working abroad is not only about contributing foreign exchange. Migrant workers also bring home skills, work culture, and new perspectives, which are valuable assets for Indonesia’s development,” Karding said.
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Translator: Katriana
Editor: Primayanti
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