Jakarta Timur (7 October 2024) - Orphans often face numerous challenges
after losing their parents. In Indonesia, the Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA)
has launched the YAPI (Orphans, Motherless, Fatherless) Program as a response to support their basic
needs. To reinforce this commitment, Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf
visited a YAPI Program beneficiary in Ciracas, East Jakarta, on Monday
(7/10/2024).
A warm conversation ensued in a
modest house belonging to Ajeng Pratiwi’s (13) family. The minister,
affectionally known as Gus Mensos, motivated Ajeng to remain hopeful and
persevere. “Many successful individuals come from underprivileged backgrounds,
even orphans. I hope one day, you will become a remarkable person too,” said
Gus Mensos to Ajeng.
Uniquely, Gus Mensos toured the
house, including the kitchen and bathroom to assess its cleanliness. According
to Gus Mensos, a house does not need to be luxurious, as long as it is
well-maintained He also praised Ajeng’s house, saying it is clean enough.
The presence of Gus Mensos
brought renewed hope to Ajeng’s family. Not only did Ajeng receive assistance,
but her mother, Herni (52), was also provided with empowerment support in the
form of items to start selling seblak and drinks.
Before passed away in 2018 due to
diabetes, Ajeng’s father worked as a driver in a factory. Since her father’s
death, the family’s livelihood has relied on her older sister. Her mother, who
had tried several jobs and small businesses, had to cease operation due to a lack
of capital. Therefore, assistance from MoSA has been incredibly meaningful.
“I am very happy, Alhamdulillah,
I can start my small business again. I hope it thrives so I can provide for
Ajeng,” said Herni.
Ajeng began receiving support
from the YAPI program in early 2024. As a 7th-grade student at SMPN 210
Jakarta, she uses the aid to purchase school supplies such as uniforms, books,
and other necessities.
The YAPI program provides
financial support of IDR 200,000 per month, distributed through a designated
bank, to children who have lost one or both parents. This assistance continues
until the child reaches 18 years old, as stipulated in Law Number 35 of 2014,
which amended Law Number 23 of 2002 on Child Protection.