Cak Imin: 23 Million Indonesians Still Facing Economic Hardship

Jakarta — Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar, commonly known as Cak Imin, has revealed that approximately 23 million Indonesians remain impoverished and continue to experience economic hardship.

“At least 23 million people who have not yet achieved prosperity remain in a position of economic difficulty,” Cak Imin stated during the Selasar Hangat (Warm Corridors) interfaith harmony agenda held at Jakarta International Velodrome in East Jakarta on Thursday, 12 March 2026.

Cak Imin noted that the 23 million impoverished Indonesians, constituting 8.25 per cent of the nation’s population, represent a collective responsibility. “This is our responsibility, and it forms part of 8.25 per cent of our nation’s population still experiencing relative poverty, whilst 0.85 per cent remain in extreme poverty,” he said.

“We must address all of this as effectively as possible. The government, through budgetary resources, will certainly continue working hard to provide stimulus, deliver social protection, and offer solutions. However, this alone is insufficient,” he noted.

Cak Imin emphasised that a core religious message taught across all faiths is the encouragement of followers to rise above adversity. “No religion promotes passive resignation. All religions encourage a stance of self-reliance and standing on one’s own feet,” he stated.

Speaking before Dikdik Sodik Mudjahid, the newly appointed head of the National Zakat Board (Baznas) for the 2026–2031 term, Cak Imin expressed hope that zakat, infak (voluntary alms), and sedekah (charitable donations) would transcend mere charitable assistance.

“Do not remain merely as charity. Rather, let us operate based on DTSEN principles. We must encourage all society members to advance, to progress towards empowerment and independence. We care for the poor, whilst simultaneously encouraging them to become a powerful and self-reliant force,” he added.