Jakarta (February 17, 2025) - Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf invited the elected Mesuji Regent Elfianah to work together to overcome poverty. He said that currently the central and regional governments must work based on the National Socioeconomic Single Data (DTSEN). "All data from the center, Statistics Indonesia (BPS) determines it, Social Welfare Integrated Data (DTKS) merges here," said Gus Ipul, his nickname, Monday (2/17/2025).

Gus Ipul said that the names of people who fall into the vulnerable, poor, to extremely poor categories must receive protection and a social security program. It is through the Family Hope Program (PKH) and Social Assistance. "After being given social protection, they can be empowered," he said. 

He explained that not all poor people can be empowered immediately. Because some must be rehabilitated first.  "Social rehabilitation first, then empowerment, after that there must be graduation, except for the elderly and persons with disabilities," he added. Gus Ipul said that those who receive social protection are only limited to a maximum of five years. They must be empowered and graduated. 

"The data must be fixed first, we will involve the regent and the mayor in determining steps to overcome poverty. We want to connect," he said. Gus Ipul said that the community can be empowered by looking at local potential. He also emphasized the importance of planning. 

"The middle class that has fallen to the bottom (becoming poor) must be intervened through education and empowerment," he said. 

Regarding this, the Head of the Social Office of the Mesuji Regency Government, Prasetyo Yura Basrianto, said that the current program in Mesuji includes social protection to food. Then, to eradicate poverty, they also invite the community to be empowered into Productive Economic Enterprise. 

"We are also coordinating with Sentra Wyata Guna Ministry of Social Affairs which has work area in Mesuji," he said.