"I would like to call on clerics to participate in updating data. Those teaching in pesantren are expected to input information on their students into the data system we have," he said in Pamekasan, East Java, on Sunday (May 10).
He delivered the appeal during a dialogue on government programs at a university, addressing pesantren operators from across Madura Island’s districts of Pamekasan, Bangkalan, Sampang, and Sumenep.
Also speaking before sub-district and village leaders, data operators, and social welfare stakeholders, Yusuf stressed the importance of ensuring valid information for the National Socioeconomic Single Data (DTSEN), which serves as the main reference for social assistance distribution.
He specifically praised Pamekasan as “a district that truly cares about data.”
Yusuf explained that updating records can be done through both formal and informal processes, noting that a bureaucratic approach involves submissions to neighborhood officials up to institutions at the village, district, municipal, and provincial levels.
He added that residents can also contribute by accessing digital systems already established.
The minister further urged all pesantren to support the tuition-free education program Sekolah Rakyat (People’s School), a national initiative dedicated to children from families classified as poor or extremely poor under DTSEN.
"We ask for prayers and blessings for the implementation of Sekolah Rakyat in Madura. Please provide us with oversight, advice, criticism, and input," Yusuf said.
He also asked clerics and religious teachers to participate in the program by delivering lectures on character development at Sekolah Rakyat facilities, which adopt a boarding school concept.
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Translator: A. Aziz, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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