Iran Learns from MoSA's Rehabilitation Model for People with Disabilities

BEKASI, THURSDAY (20 JULY 2023) - The Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran (RRI) visited the Integrated Center of Pangudi Luhur (STPL), one of the social rehabilitation centers administered by the Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA). This visit is part of the human rights dialogue and bilateral cooperation between Indonesia and Iran regarding the exchange of information on the treatment of people with disabilities.

On Wednesday (18/7), Iranian delegates led by Deputy Director General for Human Rights and Women's Affairs Seyed Mohsen Emadi arrived at STPL. They were welcomed by the Acting Director of Social Rehabilitation for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) Nursyamsu.

In his address, Emadi stated that the protection of persons with disabilities (PwDs) is an integral element of RRI's policy and has become an international consensus, as reflected in the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). Thus, disabled individuals' rights must be protected at all costs.

"Concerning PwDs as part of the discussion between two countries, because PwDs rights are fundamental, and I am very happy to be here," he said.

The integration of RPD into the health system, he said, is one of Iran's efforts to fulfill the rights of persons with disabilities. In the meantime, the STPL's visitation schedule is an endeavor to gain new perspectives on the care of  PwDs.

Not only did the delegates engage in insightful conversation, but they also had the opportunity to observe the rehabilitation process and infrastructure at STPL to gain a holistic understanding of PwDs treatment. They witnessed the processing of plastic waste, the sewing room, the automotive study room, the low-cost subsidized flat, the digital reading corner, the massage training room, and Centrelink.

At the same time, the Acting Director of SRPD Nursyamsu stated that STPL has an integrated service model in which beneficiaries not only receive benefits for rehabilitation, but also an empowerment program for their financial independence.

"As stated by the Minister of Social Affairs, Tri Rismaharini, we focus on providing rehabilitation and reducing acts of physical and sexual violence against PwDs, as well as any other attack that should not occur," he explained.

He explained that each beneficiary who wishes to undergo rehabilitation at STPL must undergo either an initial or comprehensive assessment. The outcome will serve as the primary reference point for the intervention process. Each beneficiary has unique intervention needs, so an accurate assessment is required. Generally, the intervention involves technical and non-technical tutorials, character development, and accessibility.

"We have provided them with soft and hard skills, access to education, and health insurance, and we encourage them to start businesses," Nursyamsu explained.

On this occasion, representative of Iran Embassy in Indonesia Janati Moheb, Deputy Director General on Human Rights and Women Affairs Mahdi Rounagh, Third Secretary of Political Affairs Saman Yousefvand, Expert of the Secretariat of Human Rights and Cultural Diversities Mrs Shida Nowrouzi, and Expert of International Affairs of Woman Family and Children Ali Pahlevani, are among the attendees.