Following MoSA's Electronics Training, Hakim Becomes Independent and Inspiring

MAKASSAR (20 September 2023) -- Hakim, a middle-aged man, sat down and pointed to many electronic equipment components in front of him. Occasionally he glanced at the two young men in white and gray uniforms. The two young men responded with a "nod" as a sign that they understood what he said.

Abdul Hakim Delongko or Hakim, was giving directions to two students interning at his house, which also serves as his workshop, 3 Penca Electronics. Hakim is a graduate of the Makassar Wirajaya Center, which is run by the Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA).

This electronics technician began working in Makassar City in 2009 when he felt he could no longer perform his previous jobs as a mason and pedicab driver. Due to polio attacks since he was four years old, his left leg no longer functions or is paralyzed. The constraints make the job harder.

Despite his difficulties, Hakim did not give up. Instead, he was adamant about honing his skills in another field. He began looking for work as a typewriter technician for his neighbor. He felt like he mastered the skill better after getting a wage of IDR 50,000 per 1 service unit.

Not long after, he was encouraged by his mother to pursue electronics training at Wirajaya Makassar Center. Hakim learned these skills for a year. At the same time, Hakim had a golden opportunity to be trained by Japanese students at the Wirajaya Center.

"At the Wirajaya center, we are trained physically, mentally, and spiritually, as well as in electronics. We chose this course because we had previously participated in a disability business group. I helped with typewriter maintenance," Hakim explained.

Hakim is taught about various electronic components, as well as how to measure and fix electronic items including TVs, radios, fans, and other household appliances. Following the training, the MoSA provided Hakim with electronics service equipment for him to start a business.

Aside from that, while in the Wirajaya Center, Hakim was given an orthosis/brace for his left leg to make it easier for him to walk and carry out daily activities.

He put his abilities and equipment to good use by starting an electronics service business. He is now socially and economically independent. His weekly earnings range from IDR 1 million to IDR 2 million.

His workshop is a place to share knowledge about the world of electronics as well as a place to earn a living. Hakim is trusted to accept apprentices at his house. Students from Pembangunan Toraja, Pinrang 1, Limbung 1, and other vocational schools completed internships at 3 Penca Electronics. Hakim also works with Sentra Wirajaya to assist beneficiaries with electronics training.

"Approximately 700 students have completed internships here. Some of them have now become lecturers or lecturers' assistants in the electronics department," he explained.

Hakim acknowledged that his life beliefs, especially self-confidence and being useful to others, were what made him strong. "We are grateful because we can provide for our wife and children. We may not be perfect, but we can help those who are physically perfect. We are extremely grateful," he stated.

Apart from the workshop, Hakim also receives service calls to several areas. He once received service calls to Gowa Regency, Takalar, and even Toraja, which is 8 hours away from Makassar. He rode away on a motorcycle he purchased after establishing the 3 Penca Electronics.

Hakim is also active as an assistant coach for archery in South Sulawesi. He accomplished this after finishing in the top four at the National Paralympic Week (Peparnas) in Papua in 2021. Previously, Hakim was also a shot put and javelin athlete. He has won numerous medals. Now he is passing on his talent to his nephew who is getting ready for Pre-National Sports Week (PON).

Hakim has inspired many generations and is always encouraging other persons with disabilities to be enthusiastic about recognizing their potential. Pursue a skill that can be adapted to the limitations.