Appreciating HKBP Tarutung, Social Minister Emphasizes Friendly Environment for Children with Disabilities

JAKARTA (7 JANUARY 2022) – Minister of Social Affairs Tri Rismaharini appreciates the work and contribution of Huria Kristen Batak Protestant (HKBP) in Tarutung for their consistency in handling persons with disabilities. Through Karya Hephata HKBP, it has been more than 100 years that Christian congregations under HKPB have served persons with disabilities.

"I really appreciate the concern and consistency of Panti Karya Hephata HKBP which for almost 100 years has dedicated itself to providing services for our less fortunate brothers and sisters. 100 years is not a short time with all the problems and obstacles faced, but it can be overcome well," said the Minister of Social Affairs in Jakarta (07/01).

The Minister of Social Affairs asked all parties to increase awareness of persons with disabilities and jointly develop an inclusive attitude. For the Minister of Social Affairs, every creation from God is the best, including for persons with disabilities, both physically and mentally.

The message was conveyed by the Minister of Social Affairs regarding the New Year celebration at the Protestant Batak Christian Huria Headquarters (HKBP) in Tarutung, North Tapanuli Regency. The presence of the Minister of Social Affairs cannot be separated from the partnership between the two parties regarding the fulfillment of the rights of persons with disabilities.

On this occasion, the Minister of Social Affairs emphasized the importance of creating a friendly environment for children with disabilities.

"I hope that all parties do not bully children with disabilities because of their imperfections because they are all God's creations," said the Minister of Social Affairs.

Social Minister Risma emphasized that there should be no more acts of bullying and discrimination against children with disabilities in education and schools.

"We have experience in Surabaya, children with disabilities can go to school together with other children without being discriminated against," she said.

The concern and consistency of HKBP through Panti Karya Hephata, which for almost 100 years has dedicated itself to providing services for persons with disabilities who are less fortunate, should be an inspiration.

"I think the HKBP's concern and consistency in providing services for persons with disabilities, especially for the basic rights of children with disabilities can be fulfilled, one of which is in the field of education," said the Minister of Social Affairs.

On that occasion, Pastor Saut Nababan represented HKBP while receiving appreciation from Minister of Social Affairs at the HKBP Center in Tarutung. He has a commitment and concern for the fate of persons with disabilities in Indonesia.

"Praise God, our beloved Social Minister, we really appreciate those who have been present at the celebration at the beginning of the year and for their concern for persons with disabilities so far," said Pastor Saut.

Last year, HKBP conducted a National Consultation at the Ministry of Social Affairs office to deal with persons with disabilities. At that time, the Minister of Social Affairs in her speech and directive regarding disability said that Law No. 8 of 2016 and its derivatives have not been felt by people with disabilities in many areas.

"It is hoped that the law will be socialized and realized in every region so that persons with disabilities can feel the real concern of the central government," he said.

The Minister of Social Affairs also invited every foundation to apply for persons with disabilities to be recipients of assistance. Later, the Ministry of Social Affairs will serve him well, including HKBP in order to send data on people with disabilities.

The HKBP head office is located in Tarutung, North Tapanuli Regency which has been established for more than 100 years with a congregation of around 6 million people spread throughout Indonesia to the European continent.

Also present at the event, the Regent of North Tapanuli, the Head of the North Tapanuli Social Service, Secretary Directorate General of Social Security, all HKBP administrators, and invited guests.

Public Relations Bureau

Ministry of Social Affairs RI