Minister Risma's Concern about a Girl Selling Chips

SUKABUMI (20 February 2024) - Minister of Social Affairs Tri Rismaharini is dedicated to helping underprivileged communities. One of them is Noreen Elvani (7), a grade 1 elementary school student from Sukabumi, West Java. Every day after school, the third of five siblings helps her mother sell banana chips in Secapa Gunung Puyuh.

Noreen's story was featured in the Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA) media scanning, which instantly drew Minister Risma's attention. "There was some news concerning Noreen last night. She was selling at the market to support her parents because her father had been hit by a car and was unable to work," stated the Minister after seeing Noreen's family in Gunung Puyuh Village, Gunung Puyuh District, Sukabumi Regency, on Monday (19/2).

The Minister stated that MoSA will facilitate Noreen's father's treatment till it is completed. Aside from that, MoSA will assist Noreen's family in achieving financial independence. Meanwhile, when asked about Noreen, who had assisted her mother in selling, the Minister stated that it was alright as long as Noreen's rights as a kid were still respected.

"If she isn't compelled to, it's fine. Nooren's desire to help her parents is admirable. However, children's rights, such as the ability to attend school and play, must still be respected. So, it's fine in my opinion. Because not every family is (economically) fortunate," she explained.

Meanwhile, Noreen's biological mother, Eliyani Fitria (40), revealed that Minister Risma's visit to her home moved her deeply. "Happy, overwhelmed, and moved. It turns out that there is still someone who holds positions, who is wealthy, but still wants to see people like myself, who are not well off," she explained.

Eliyani stated that the Minister inspired her and her husband to recuperate and recover like before. The minister also encouraged them to be role models for their children. Apart from that, Minister Risma purchased 36 packs of banana chips.

"Earlier, she purchased 36 packs for a total of IDR 720,000. But she gave me IDR 1,000,000. She said that the IDR 280,000 should be saved for Noreen,” she said. 

Meanwhile, the response to Noreen's case will continue, especially for the health examination of her father. Previously, MoSA assisted Noreen's family in the form of adequate living necessities, basic necessities, household equipment, pumps, and business equipment.