Depok (ANTARA) - Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting crosssector, concerted efforts to empower citizens with disabilities.
“Empowering people with disabilities means providing our brothers and sisters in that group with opportunities to harness their potential, enabling them to live independent lives,” he remarked at the University of Indonesia in Depok, West Java.
Speaking at an event marking the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Tuesday, Iskandar emphasized the need for policymakers and business actors to collaborate to empower around 8.5 million citizens with disabilities who are still struggling with poverty.
He called for broad public participation in initiatives aimed at empowering these residents, citing Rumah Inklusif Kebumen—a community-based social affairs center established in 2009 in Kebumen, Central Java—as an example of inclusive empowerment.
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As a gesture of respect, the minister wore a batik shirt crafted by residents with disabilities supported by the center during the event.
“It is crucial that we continue striving to realize equality for persons with disabilities as part of broader efforts to free society from discrimination,” he stated.
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Iskandar urged all relevant parties to celebrate the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities by fostering synergy in empowering citizens with disabilities.
“The International Day of Persons with Disabilities serves as momentum for us all to accelerate the realization of equality,” he concluded.
