JAKARTA (September 11, 2024) – President Joko Widodo appointed Saifullah Yusuf, also known as Gus Ipul, as Indonesia's Minister of Social Affairs on Wednesday (11/9), succeeding Tri Rismaharini.


Following the inauguration, Gus Ipul proceeded straight to the Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA) office on Jalan Salemba in Central Jakarta to attend the handover ceremony from Acting Minister of Social Affairs, Muhadjir Effendi, to himself. 


The Secretary General of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), Gus Ipul, admired the MoSA office's comfortable atmosphere. He believes that a cozy environment can enhance work performance and synergy.


"I’m very pleased to enter the MoSA building. Such an atmosphere will boost our work spirit," said Gus Ipul when the MoSA Secretary General took him on a tour of the MoSA office.


Gus Ipul also praised the MoSA building's diverse decorations and interiors, created by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) around Indonesia. "I feel like I'm walking into a hotel, especially after discovering that the ornaments are primarily sourced from SMEs in various parts of Indonesia. "This is something worth emulating," Gus Ipul said.


Muhadjir Effendi, the Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Cultural Affairs, who previously served as Acting Minister of Social Affairs, believes that Gus Ipul can create a fresh, constructive work atmosphere. "I’m confident that Gus Ipul will lead MoSA to work hard, but with joy, without much tension, as MoSA needs to be led by someone with dedication," said Muhadjir.


In this comfortable office, Gus Ipul also stated that he would use the first few days of his tenure to learn and coordinate with MoSA officials and staff regarding its programs. According to him, the MoSA programs should be visible and beneficial to the public.


Currently, Gus Ipul is focusing on optimizing existing programs, including maintaining the Integrated Social Welfare Data (DTKS). Additionally, he has advised all MoSA staff to follow the stated regulations.