Promoting Economic Independence: PSL Provides Training for the Visually Impaired
Twenty visually impaired individuals in Semarang have received training and certification to become traditional massage therapists. These skills are expected to create job opportunities and serve as a source of independent income for the participants.
The training was held in Karangrejo Village, Gajahmungkur District, Semarang, as part of the Pelindo-PIJAR (Pijat Netra Berdikari) 2026 Inspiring Friends Programme. PT Pelindo Sinergi Lokaseva (PSL) implemented the programme in collaboration with the Semarang Indonesian Blind Association (Pertuni) and the local Social Services Department.
Dewi Fitriyani, Senior Vice President of Corporate Secretariat at Pelindo Sinergi Lokasevan, stated that participants did not only receive massage technique training. They also underwent certification for basic massage techniques and mentoring, and received supporting equipment for their practice.
“We hope that the skills acquired through this programme can serve as a foundation for participants to develop independent and sustainable businesses,” Dewi said in a press release on Friday (2/10/2026).
The PIJAR programme has been running since 2024, initially partnering with the North Jakarta branch of Pertuni. In its early stages, visually impaired individuals received massage training, certification, and equipment to support their practice.
The programme continued in 2025 with the provision of massage facilities for the visually impaired at the Nusantara Passenger Terminal in Tanjung Priok Port. This year, the programme’s scope has been expanded to Semarang, involving 20 participants.
The Chairperson of Pertuni Semarang, Achyani, noted that massage skills can open opportunities for the visually impaired to earn an independent income. Achyani is also participating in the programme, serving as both a therapist and a massage instructor.
“We hope this programme can remain sustainable and provide benefits to our daily lives, particularly so that we can earn a living independently through the skills we possess,” said Achyani.
The Head of Karangrejo Village, Dwi Cahyono, assessed that skills training can serve as a means for participants to increase their income. He expressed hope that similar empowerment programmes could also reach MSMEs and other community economic potentials.
“We hope this programme runs smoothly, remains sustainable, and benefits the community. We also hope that in the future, other empowerment programmes can continue to be developed, including those targeting MSMEs and other community potentials,” he stated.
Since 2024, the PIJAR programme has reached 70 visually impaired individuals in Jakarta and Semarang. Some participants are reported to have already opened independent massage services or are working in traditional health businesses.
Pelindo Sinergi Lokaseva aims for the skills acquired by participants to evolve into a reliable source of income. Similar empowerment programmes are planned to continue in order to expand economic opportunities for the community.