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The Ministry of Social Affairs Provides Assistance for People with Speech Disabilities Affected by Covid-19
JAKARTA
(30 July 2021) - The Ministry of
Social Affairs through Social Rehabilitation Center “Melati” Jakarta responded
quickly to information from the public regarding Boni Fasius Cendikia Waskito,
a 22-year-old Speech Disabled Person who lives with his family in Cipondoh
Indah Village, Tangerang City and is experiencing a crisis due to the Covid-19
pandemic.
The Head of the Jakarta Melati Center, Romal
Uli Jaya Sinaga, assigned Social Worker Namin Sunarto to carry out a needs
assessment for Boni and his family.
Accompanied by a Disability Facilitator in the
Tangerang City area, Namin headed to Boni's residence. Coordination with RT and
RW was also carried out to facilitate access to permits in conducting the
assessment process for Boni's family.
Initial information obtained from the Assistant
for Disabled People is that Boni has not been included in the Social Welfare
Integrated Data (DTKS) because Boni's Identity Card (KTP) and Family Card (KK)
are registered as residents of DKI Jakarta, while she is domiciled in Tangerang
City.
Boni was the first to open the door when
officers came to his house. Although feel shocking, Boni and her father tried
to serve their guests in a friendly manner. Dodik Geger Ekal, Boni's father,
told about his family's condition and his son's history of disability.
“Having our first son is the greatest joy for
our family. However, God has his own way of educating us. When Boni was about 1
year-old, I suspected why this child was slow to speak. I tried to take him to
the doctor, he said that Boni had a speech disorder and needed regular therapy.
We feel so sad. Moreover, the cost of therapy is not cheap, Sir," said
Dodik.
“Before, my wife and I worked as teachers but
not permanently. Conditions are getting tougher during the pandemic. I didn't
think that my wife and I had to lose our jobs because the school had fewer staff
to save the budget. Finding work elsewhere is just as difficult. However, the
kitchen must remain to bubble. My wife and I have to do whatever work, the
important thing is that the children can eat,” continued Dodik.