Minister of Social Affairs: Work Wholeheartedly for Persons with Disabilities

TEMANGGUNG (November 3, 2020) - When this pandemic situation requires adaptation in carrying out daily activities, vigilance and the implementation of health protocols must continue to be carried out to prevent the transmission of COVID-19 including in carrying out social services for the community.

Responding to the crisis situation due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Director General of Social Rehabilitation, Harry Hikmat who was present at the HR capacity building activity at "Kartini" Center, encouraged social rehabilitation centers in the regions to be able to contribute through aspects of social services by optimizing the implementation of activities. Social Rehabilitation Assistance (ATENSI).

Harry also said that currently, where residential-based ATENSI services or services in centers for persons with disabilities cannot be implemented optimally, more family and community-based ATENSI services must be carried out.

"The center must be more proactive, not just waiting for referrals from the community, maximizing the existing human resources to carry out attention for the community, especially people with disabilities," added Harry.

Also on this occasion, after a working visit in the Semarang area, the Indonesian Minister of Social Affairs, Juliari P. Batubara was present at the "Kartini" Center to see firsthand the process of social rehabilitation for people with intellectual disabilities.

The Minister of Social Affairs highly appreciates the work of all employees of "Kartini" Center in Temanggung in carrying out social assistance and rehabilitation for people with intellectual disabilities.

The Minister of Social Affairs also had the opportunity to see products made by people with intellectual disabilities in the form of splashed batik, handicraft products in the form of bags, other accessories. The splattered batik on display was produced by the Sheltered Workshop Peduli (SWP) of Giri Kasih, Kulon Progo Regency, Dadi Mulya, Banjarnegara Regency, Karya Barokah, Wonogiri Regency.

This SWP is a production center that empowers persons with disabilities in economic activities. SWP is a community-based ATENSI service. As a form of appreciation and support, the Minister of Social Affairs bought splattered batik fabrics made by people with intellectual disabilities to be brought to Jakarta.

The Minister of Social Affairs also tried several occupational tools such as the Color Peg Board, Mystery Box, Holahop, Wooden Rings Color, Cognitive Flow Board. The tools are basically to train fine motor skills, stimulate perception and cognition, eye and hand coordination and problem solving. It is intended to help individuals with physical, mental and/or social problems through meaningful and purposeful activities.

The Minister of Social Affairs advised all employees to continue their dedication in providing services for persons with disabilities. "Work with your heart for humanity," concluded the Minister of Social Affairs.