PASAMAN (November 10, 2023) – The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs, through Handayani Center in Jakarta, is addressing cases of child abuse in Pasaman Regency, West Sumatra, by providing aid to the victims and their families.

The Head of Handayani Center, Romal Sinaga, instructed that the aid be distributed immediately after a comprehensive assessment to determine the specific needs of the victims and their families.

Following the assessment, a total of 63 children and 69 families received assistance. The aid included nutrition, school supplies, educational play equipment, mattresses, personal hygiene items, support for a decent living, and entrepreneurship opportunities for the families, with a total value of IDR290,580,300.

The entire process, from assessment and psycho-education to aid distribution, was a result of collaboration between the Handayani Center in Jakarta and the Padang Center for Social Welfare Education and Training (BBPPKS).

Representing the Head of Handayani Center, Coordinator of the Children’s Working Group Puti Chairida, along with Handayani Center team, assisted in Pasaman Regency. The event was also attended by the Head of BBPPKS Padang, Hasim; the Head of the Social Rehabilitation Division of the West Sumatra Provincial Social Office, Heni Yunida; the Secretary of the Pasaman Regency Social Office, H Noviar; the Head of Padang Gelugur Sub-district, Riko Juliandra; the Head of Bahagia Padang Gelugur Village, Ali Fitra; and local social assistants.

"This assistance is a form of care from the Ministry of Social Affairs through Handayani Center to restore the cheerful smiles of children after what has happened, as well as to help improve the family economy," said Puti during her speech.

Meanwhile, the Head of BBPPKS Padang, Hasim, emphasized that the assistance should be used effectively to motivate families to improve their future. "There should be no resentment between families because the assistance is the result of an assessment conducted by our field team to identify those who are most in need," said Hasim.

The Head of Bahagia Padang Gelugur Village, Ali Fitra, also expressed his gratitude. "Thank you for all the attention and cooperation that has been provided to the Pasaman Regency area," he said.

"Thank you, Mrs. Risma, for giving Wira a bicycle," said Wira, one of the children who received the assistance, smiling happily.