Minister Risma Provides RST and Entrepreneurial Assistance in Tanimbar

TANIMBAR ISLANDS (27 June 2024) - Laurensus Yenpormase (42) couldn't believe his luck when he learned that Minister of Social Affairs Tri Rismaharini, along with her team, visited his home in Lauran Village, South Tanimbar District, Tanimbar Islands Regency, Maluku, on Wednesday (26/6) afternoon. Moreover, Minister Risma offered various types of business aid to his wife, Norbertha Kanu, to increase their income. "Ma’am, can you weave? Or that land that can be planted with dragon fruit or California papaya for sale," said Minister Risma while pointing to a piece of empty land owned by Laurensus that had not yet been utilized.

Laurensus, his wife and their child live in a "zinc house" measuring 5 m x 5 m, with a wooden board floor and zinc roof and walls. It's unimaginable that when the sun is scorching during the day, instead of finding shelter in his house, Laurensus and his family are met with stifling heat. Rather than feeling protected, they are subjected to the hot, stuffy air that pierces the skin. Meanwhile, to meet the need for clean water, Laurensus has to travel 2 kilometres just to fetch water. Lighting in the house is also provided by oil lamps, as the electricity installation has not yet reached their home.

In response to this, Minister Risma dispatched a team to assess the situation and provide home improvement assistance for Laurensus. Additionally, the Ministry of Social Affairs team also provided access to water and electricity installations for Laurensus. The home repair work is being carried out jointly by the Tagana team of Tanimbar Islands Regency. Furthermore, Minister Risma also provided them with a business opportunity to raise laying hens and grow nursery plants next to their house. "So, for their daily needs, this is good; it can be consumed directly or sold as a business," explained Minister Risma.

The Tagana team is still working on fixing Laurensus' house, which is anticipated to be completed within the next seven days. In the meantime, Laurensus and his family are staying with his parents. "Thanks to the Minister of Social Affairs, I'll have a new home. Thank you, Minister," said Laurensus, who acknowledged being astonished to receive house repair and business support from Minister Risma.