Gus Ipul Receives Audience from North Maluku Deputy Governor, Discusses Social Conflicts and People's Schools

Social Minister Saifullah Yusuf, or Gus Ipul, received an audience from North Maluku Deputy Governor Sarbin Sehe at the Ministry of Social Affairs office in Central Jakarta. The meeting discussed several strategic issues, ranging from handling social conflicts in Central Halmahera, the development of People’s Schools, to the impacts of the earthquake on Batang Dua Island.

The social conflict that drew attention occurred between residents of Banemo Village and Sibenpopo Village in West Patani Subdistrict, Central Halmahera Regency, North Maluku. The incident began with the discovery of a resident’s body from Banemo Village in the early hours of Thursday (2 April). The event triggered tensions and clashes between residents, resulting in fatalities, injuries, and damage to houses.

In addition to the social conflict, the meeting also addressed the earthquake disaster that struck Batang Dua Island, Ternate City, on Thursday (2 April). The quake was recorded at magnitude 7.6.

Gus Ipul emphasised the Ministry of Social Affairs’ commitment to supporting the needs of communities affected by both social conflicts and natural disasters in North Maluku.

“Bismillah, we will follow up, Mr Deputy Governor. We support whatever is needed,” said Gus Ipul in a written statement on Tuesday (14 April 2026).

On the same occasion, the construction of permanent buildings for People’s Schools in North Maluku was also a topic of discussion. Currently, construction is underway at two locations: Rioribati Village in West Halmahera Regency and Kukumutuk Village in North Halmahera Regency.

Gus Ipul asked the North Maluku Deputy Governor to continue monitoring the development progress. He also expressed his desire to inspect the People’s School construction process in the area directly.

“Insya Allah, I want to see (the construction of) the People’s School,” he said.

In response, North Maluku Deputy Governor Sarbin Sehe stated that the People’s School construction is progressing well and according to plan. He mentioned that the project is targeted for completion in June 2026.

“Both are progressing. According to field information, completion might be in June,” Sarbin revealed.