Deputy Minister Ensures Sayuti Melik's Son's Needs Are Met

Deputy Minister of Social Affairs Agus Jabo Priyono has responded swiftly to the viral story of Heru Baskoro, the 84-year-old son of Sayuti Melik, the man who typed the Indonesian proclamation of independence, who was reportedly living in destitute conditions. The Deputy Minister spoke directly with Heru and his wife, Treyzia Noviani, 65, at the Pangudi Luhur Integrated Centre in Bekasi, where they are receiving residential, medical rehabilitation, and psychosocial support. The couple was evacuated from their rented home in Rawalumbu, Bekasi, on Monday. Deputy Minister Agus Jabo Priyono, representing Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf, visited Heru at the rehabilitation centre and confirmed that all their daily needs would be met. He also provided motivation and assured them that the Ministry of Social Affairs would act as a bridge with other relevant parties and family to provide the best services for Heru. The Deputy Minister explained that Heru’s life was previously quite comfortable, as he lived in Canada from 1998 to 2024, working as a senior staff member at an oil company and holding permanent residency in the United States. His circumstances changed after he decided to return to Indonesia in 2024. Heru experienced vision problems in his right eye, leading to a decline in eyesight, and he travelled back and forth between Indonesia and Canada for treatment. After six months in Indonesia, his pension fund payments were halted, causing the couple to face financial difficulties and forcing them to sell all their assets. The Ministry of Social Affairs will coordinate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Indonesian Embassy, and the Ministry of Health regarding Heru’s pension fund and his healthcare, as he requires a corneal transplant. The Deputy Minister stated that all parties are waiting for the results of inter-governmental and family coordination to determine the best course of action, noting that it would be better for Heru’s health if the pension matter could be resolved without him having to return to Canada.