JAKARTA (3 December 2024) – Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf has described the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (HDI), commemorated annually on December 3, as a “festive day” for persons with disabilities. In the 2024 HDI celebration, the minister—popularly known as Gus Ipul—took an active role in both planning and execution, including facilitating collaboration between renowned orchestra conductor Tohpati and musicians with disabilities.

“For persons with disabilities, HDI is like a festive holiday,” Gus Mensos said on Tuesday, December 3, after performing the song *Laskar Pelangi* onstage with musicians with disabilities at the peak event of HDI 2024 at Taman Ismail Marzuki in Jakarta.

Also attended by Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the event featured a stirring orchestral collaboration between disabled and non-disabled musicians. Running from December 1, the program provided extensive opportunities for persons with disabilities to showcase their best works.

More than just a platform, Gus Mensos also used this year’s HDI celebration to underscore the government’s commitment to disability-friendly programs. “I am delighted to be working with stakeholders to ensure that our programs and services truly meet the needs of people with disabilities,” he said.

According to Gus Mensos, the Ministry of Social Affairs is currently focusing on consolidating data on persons with disabilities. The dataset will include *by name by address* information integrated with National Identification Numbers (NIK), as well as additional details such as housing conditions. “With a single integrated data system, we can collaborate with local governments, agencies, and other ministries to create targeted and effective interventions,” he added.

As part of its innovations, the ministry is also in the process of designing a Disability Card to facilitate easier access to both government and private-sector services. “The card will not only serve as an ID but also function as a tool to ensure that persons with disabilities receive the rights they are entitled to—such as transportation discounts,” he explained.

On the issue of economic empowerment, Gus Mensos promotes full implementation of legislation requiring government institutions and state-owned enterprises (BUMN) to reserve 2 percent of their workforce for persons with disabilities, and 1 percent for the private sector.

Additionally, a program to provide free nutritious meals for older adults and persons with disabilities remains a key priority. “Currently, the program reaches 42,000 beneficiaries with disabilities. We hope to see that number continue to grow in the future,” he concluded.