The Government is Encouraging the Transformation of Social Assistance into Empowerment Programs
Jakarta – The state exists not only to provide, but also to awaken the potential of its people. Through a new policy under the Ministry of Social Affairs, social assistance (bansos) no longer stops at distribution, but moves towards sustainable empowerment. The government is encouraging the transformation of social assistance to become a path for communities to rise, become independent, and prosper.
Locally-based skills training programs continue to be promoted in various regions. Beneficiary Families (KPM) are encouraged to process banana stems, water hyacinth, and recycled materials into economically valuable craft products. This approach not only builds independence but also strengthens residents’ confidence in developing their own businesses.
The Minister of Social Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, Saifullah Yusuf, said that the paradigm of social assistance must change from passive to productive.
“We don’t want people to be forever dependent. Assistance is necessary, but what’s more important is paving the way for them to stand on their own two feet,” he said during a visit to the training site.
Meanwhile, the Director General of Social Empowerment, Mira Riyati, emphasized the importance of partnerships with universities and local communities to ensure the empowerment program runs effectively.
“We want to ensure that this program doesn’t just stop at training, but produces real changes in people’s lives,” he said.
Transforming social assistance into empowerment programs is a concrete manifestation of the state’s commitment. With real work, collaboration, and trust, communities are not only helped to survive—but also given hope for growth.
This program also opens up opportunities for micro-enterprise financing through synergies with state-owned financial institutions and digital marketplaces, enabling beneficiary families (KPM) products to reach a wider market. The government believes that with an integrated combination of skills, capital, and marketing, poverty alleviation efforts will be more robust and sustainable.
In various regions, the results are beginning to be felt. A number of beneficiaries who previously only received assistance have now become successful small business owners selling their handicrafts to outside regions. These stories are proof that when the state is present, not only to provide but also to guide, people can transform aid into strength for a more dignified and dignified life.
