TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian Social Affairs Minister Tri Rismaharini highlighted the critical role of accurate data and technology in poverty alleviation efforts at the recent High-Level Political Forum at the United Nations on Thursday, July 11, 2024.

“We believe that by working together, the world will become a better place for all, inclusive without poverty and hunger. No one is left behind,” Risma said in a written statement received by Tempo on Monday, July 15.

Risma outlined Indonesia’s initiatives to address poverty through a multi-faceted approach in the last three years, involving multi-stakeholders, traditional communities, religious communities, alumni associations, the media, and state officials.

According to her, the government continuously updates the Integrated Social Welfare Data (DTKS) at the local government level at least once a month, allowing for more targeted and effective poverty alleviation programs.

Moreover, the government initiated free food programs for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and disabled, as well as social assistance programs like the Family Hope Program (PKH), cash assistance, and basic food support for vulnerable groups.

“This program is supported by local community groups (Pokmas) who cook and send food to them every day,” she added.

In the housing sector, the Ministry of Social Affairs introduced an affordable housing program through low-cost rental flats at Rp10,000 per month and home renovation projects. To date, three low-rent flats have been built and nearly 16,000 houses have been renovated throughout Indonesia in the last three years.

Other government initiatives include improving accessibility in remote areas with school transportation, broadband learning centers, and clean water infrastructure; implementing economic empowerment programs like the Indonesian Economic Heroes (PENA) to graduate families from poverty and foster entrepreneurship; and disaster preparedness with 648 social barns equipped for emergency response throughout the archipelago.

DESTY LUTHFIANI

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