MAKASSAR (November 24, 2023) — Ashabul Kahfi, Chairman of Commission VIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives, expressed his praise and support for the Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs' programs during his working visit to the Wirajaya Center in Makassar on Friday (11/24/2023). The event took place at the Hall of Wirajaya Center Multipurpose Building on Jl. AP Pettarani, Makassar.

During the visit, Ashabul Kahfi distributed various types of assistance to the residents of Makassar City, including ATENSI (Social Rehabilitation Assistance), Social Service Assistance, and Social Harmony. The assistance was symbolically handed over to the representatives of the beneficiaries, including recipients of ATENSI and Family Hope Program (PKH) assistance. Ashabul also distributed disability aids, such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, and three-wheeled motorcycles. Additionally, assistance was provided under the Nusantara Economic Heroes Program (PENA), the Social Rehabilitation Assistance for the Orphans (YAPI), and the Basic Food Assistance, totaling IDR 15,450,968,456.

In his speech, Ashabul Kahfi emphasized the importance of ensuring that social assistance reaches the intended recipients. He also highlighted the need for more than just financial support, urging that education and responsible use of assistance are crucial to minimizing social issues.

In his speech, Ashabul Kahfi hoped that the distribution of social assistance for residents would be right on target. He also emphasized that minimizing social problems requires more than just providing social assistance; it is essential to educate residents, ensuring that those who receive help use and make the most of it effectively.

"Achieving independence and empowerment for residents is not only the Ministry of Social Affairs' duty but a collective responsibility. Those receiving assistance must use it wisely and effectively," Ashabul said.

Furthermore, Ashabul Kahfi commended the Ministry of Social Affairs' programs and emphasized the critical role of state institutions in addressing social issues, emphasizing that these programs must effectively solve the challenges faced by the residents.

Meanwhile, Anna Puspasari, Head of the Social Welfare Education and Training Center (BBPPKS) Regional V Makassar, representing the Ministry of Social Affairs, welcomed the working visit. She acknowledged the crucial support from Commission VIII in optimizing the Ministry’s programs and expressed that Chairman Ashabul Kahfi's presence in Makassar would inspire the Ministry to further improve its performance in fulfilling its duties.

“The presence of Mr. Ashabul Kahfi as Chairperson of Commission VIII in Makassar is a source of motivation for the Ministry of Social Affairs to improve its efforts, particularly in fulfilling the responsibilities of each work unit under the Ministry,” said Anna.

She further explained that the Ministry's programs are central to improving community welfare, through social rehabilitation, protection, and empowerment programs. These initiatives aim to help Social Welfare Service for Persons in Need (PPKS) — including children, people with disabilities, the elderly, and vulnerable groups — regain their social functioning, access regular assistance, and achieve economic independence through the Nusantara Economic Heroes program.

“It is hoped that all beneficiaries can overcome their challenges and lead independent, productive lives,” Anna added.

One of the assistance beneficiaries, Rasia Dg. Singara, expressed her gratitude upon receiving a wheelchair.

“Thank you for the wheelchair; it truly helps me,” she said.

On that occasion, Ashabul Kahfi also took the opportunity to engage in casual dialogue with Social Volunteer Companions, PKH Companions, and Sub-district Social Welfare Workers (TKSK) throughout  Makassar City at the ATENSI Creative Center (SKA) Café, located within the Wirajaya Center building.

The working visit was attended by Masri, Head of the Social Rehabilitation Division of the Makassar City Social Office, and Muh. Bakri, Secretary of the South Sulawesi Provincial Social Office.