Ombudsman Ensures Vulnerable Groups and Persons with Disabilities Can Access National Strategic Projects

The Indonesian Ombudsman (ORI) is working to ensure that vulnerable groups and persons with disabilities can be reached by various National Strategic Projects (PSN), such as the Sekolah Rakyat (People’s Schools) programme, through enhanced oversight. During a meeting with the National Commission on Disability (KND) in Jakarta on Tuesday, ORI member Maneger Nasution stated that the institution is continuously taking steps to prevent maladministration, particularly within the PSN. “Prevention is carried out, among other means, through the supervision of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, the Village/Sub-district Red and White Cooperatives, and the Sekolah Rakyat,” Maneger said. He emphasized the importance of proactive collaboration to oversee public services, especially for disability groups. By partnering with the KND, the Ombudsman is committed to optimising its persuasive role to encourage disability-friendly public services. It was noted that the number of public complaints regarding disability issues reported to the Ombudsman has shown an increasing trend each year. “This indicates a rise in public awareness to report issues,” he added, stating that collaboration with the KND is therefore strategic for improving the quality of public services. Maneger stressed that this cooperation should not be merely ceremonial but must be realised through routine programmes such as joint monitoring of public service facilities. He added that the collaboration will also extend to involving Ombudsman representative offices in the regions. “Going forward, it is necessary to hold a special coordination meeting between the Ombudsman and the KND to discuss the annual report on public services for disability groups,” Maneger revealed. This initiative was positively received by the KND commissioners. KND Chairperson Dante Rigmalia acknowledged that the fulfilment of the rights of persons with disabilities in the public service sector has not yet been optimal, making the Ombudsman’s presence as an external supervisory body crucial. She also invited the Ombudsman to collaborate in promoting inclusive village development and preventing human trafficking, considering that disability groups are particularly vulnerable to this issue. KND Commissioner Rachmita Harahap highlighted the importance of the equity aspect, where persons with disabilities must be given access to facilities and accessibility tailored to their specific needs.