Elderly and Disabled Groups to Receive Permanent Social Assistance as Proof of Government Recognition
Jakarta – The government’s plan to provide permanent social assistance (bansos) for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, persons with disabilities, and people with mental disorders (ODGJ) has received positive responses from various stakeholders, including legislators.
Member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Netty Prasetiyani, expressed her strong support for this sustainable social assistance policy. Her endorsement reaffirms the state’s commitment to ensuring social protection for its most vulnerable citizens.
“We welcome and fully support the government’s plan to provide ongoing social assistance to vulnerable groups such as the elderly, persons with disabilities, and ODGJ. This is a concrete step toward protection,” said Netty.
She believes that this permanent assistance policy is tangible proof of the state’s recognition of the basic needs of citizens who are unable to live independently due to permanent conditions.
“This initiative is expected to ease their life burden and provide sustainable assurance for elderly people, disabled individuals, and ODGJ who have often been overlooked,” she added.
However, Netty Prasetiyani emphasized that the distribution of assistance must be accompanied by strict oversight to ensure accuracy and transparency. She highlighted the importance of validating and integrating beneficiary data so that no vulnerable individuals are left out.
“There must be validation and integration of social assistance recipient data, involving various parties, from local governments, disability organizations, elderly communities, to local community leaders, to ensure that the aid is well-targeted,” Netty stressed.
She also pointed out that many vulnerable individuals remain unregistered or do not even possess a national identity number (NIK), posing a challenge that must be addressed through cross-sector collaboration to ensure every entitled citizen receives assistance.
Furthermore, Netty hopes that the assistance will not merely be consumptive but accompanied by support programs. She emphasized the need for psychosocial support, family training, and empowerment for productive disabled individuals and active elderly people.
“Providing social assistance does not mean the state’s duty ends. Psychosocial assistance, family training, and support for empowered disabled individuals should be integral to the program,” said Netty.
Regarding supervision, Netty Prasetiyani encouraged transparency in the distribution process by involving the public and legislative oversight.
“The state exists precisely for those who need it most. Vulnerable groups such as the elderly, persons with disabilities, and ODGJ are not a burden, but citizens whose lives must be guaranteed with dignity,” Netty concluded.
Meanwhile, the Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment, Muhaimin Iskandar, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the continuation of assistance for these vulnerable groups.
“Yes, there’s a term for it. As of today, we have concluded that for people with disabilities, the elderly, and ODGJ, assistance will be permanent and ongoing,” Muhaimin stated.
For categories outside these vulnerable groups, social assistance will still be provided but limited to a maximum of five years. This policy is expected to strengthen the social safety net while ensuring social justice for all Indonesian people.
