Biak Numfor (13 September 2023) – Minister of Social Affairs Tri Rismaharini hand over social empowerment aid for residents in Biak Numfor through Christian Church Indonesia Affiliation. The aid is in the form of ice cube production machine with 5 ton capacity and 1.000 egg-laying hens.

The aid directly received by the Member of the Working Committee of Synod Region III, Priest Michael Kapisa. Besides, the Minister also tries to looking for collaboration in empowerment program in order to prepare Sail Teluk Cendrawasih (STC) which will be held in November. Such as making noken, a traditional Papuan bag that can later be sold as souvenir.

"This is an opportunity, a chance to get something for our citizens," said the Minister during a dialog with Biak Numfor Deputy Regent Calvin Mansnembra, Wednesday (13/9).

According to the Minister, STC is an opportunity that have to be used properly. It because of tourism agenda that involves many tourists is something rare. Therefore, the Minister will help to design noken to make it more attractive. "Later I will help you with color design if the madam here can make noken," she said.

The Minister invited the ladies to cooperate with the Ministry of Social Affairs by submitting the materials needed to make noken.

Not only providing assistance, the Minister of Social Affairs also motivated the beneficiaries to be able to see opportunities to increase their income. "if you can be a shop owner why do you have to be a guard. These ladies and gentlemen are pioneers who will later become examples for others," said the Minister of Social Affairs in front of the beneficiaries.

Meanwhile, Pastor Michael Kapisa expressed his gratitude for the attention given by the Minister of Social Affairs to the Biak Numfor residents. As a form of appreciation, Pastor Michael gave a special call to the Minister of Social Affairs. "I thank you for your attention. Allow us all to call you with ‘awin’, it means mama in Biak language," he said.