Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Social Affairs is providing mentoring and funding support for persons with disabilities working in the creative sector in commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed on December 3.

“They are eager to learn, they want to become more independent, and this is an opportunity for us to provide guidance, offer capital support, and help with marketing,” advisor I of the ministry's civil servants' wives association (DWP), Fatma Saifullah Yusuf, said here on Wednesday

She emphasized that many artists with disabilities have remarkable creativity and potential to produce high-value goods but often face challenges in marketing their work.

Therefore, the ministry will develop a business ecosystem, as a platform for them to market their creations, arts, and crafts.

Yusuf added that many persons with disabilities work in various professions, including culinary businesses, batik artisanship, tailoring, and more. Through its community centers, the ministry continues to provide capacity-building opportunities for these groups.

“They can make excellent products, but the marketing is quite challenging, which is why we are holding an event like this today. We will collaborate more with professionals, designers, and artisans in several districts and cities across Indonesia,” she stated.

Yusuf added that some are skilled in cooking and baking, but can also learn batik-making, sewing, and other crafts when given opportunities.

Vulnerable groups, including those in the lowest socio-economic groups, are also covered in the ministry's programs to ensure inclusivity.

The ministry has developed skill training, assistance, and support for disability-based micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Yusuf underscored that building an inclusive ecosystem requires sustainable cross-sector collaboration so children with disabilities can grow into empowered individuals.

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Translator: Lintang, Kenzu
Editor: Arie Novarina
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