Social Minister Gus Ipul Visits Pasuruan to Distribute Food Assistance to 1,500 Poor Families
Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf, commonly known as Gus Ipul, attended a Collaboration of Presidential Priority Programmes event aimed at building human resources towards economic independence at Taman Kawasan Mekkah in Pasuruan City, East Java, on Tuesday, 10 March. The event included distribution of food assistance packages to 1,500 poor families (KPM) gathered at KHAS Mosque in Pasuruan.
Gus Ipul encouraged residents to continue praying for improved economic conditions and urged those working as agricultural labourers or in other occupations to remain optimistic about their families’ futures. “Hopefully their income will increase and their children will grow into good individuals,” Gus Ipul stated.
During the event, Gus Ipul also highlighted the Rakyat School programme, designed specifically for the poorest families. “This school was established by the President for the most disadvantaged families. Those who feel able to support themselves should be patient,” he explained, adding that after six to seven months at the Rakyat Schools, children had shown visible improvements in health and well-being.
Beyond education, the minister encouraged community participation in economic empowerment programmes through village cooperatives, hoping residents would join the Merah Putih Village Cooperative to enhance their welfare. He stressed that social assistance programmes such as the Family Hope Programme (PKH) and food aid are temporary in nature. The government aims to encourage working-age populations to improve their circumstances through economic empowerment initiatives rather than sustained welfare support.
In his closing remarks, Gus Ipul expressed appreciation to all levels of local government officials for their cooperation in implementing various social programmes, calling for continued collaboration to advance the region.
The event was also attended by Pasuruan City Mayor Adi Wibowo and Deputy Mayor Mokhamad Nawawi, demonstrating coordination between central and local government in support of President Prabowo Subianto’s priority programmes, particularly in strengthening education and community empowerment.
The programme opened with performances by Rakyat School students in Pasuruan City, including performances by the Junior Police (Pocil) unit, Saman dance, theatre productions, and speeches delivered in English and Arabic. The atmosphere was enhanced by combined choir performances from three schools.
Mayor Adi Wibowo emphasised the importance of accurate data collection to ensure government programmes reach their intended beneficiaries, expressing hope that central government initiatives would continue to benefit Pasuruan’s residents. “This reflects our collective commitment and aspirations. Hopefully this collaboration will be realised well,” he stated.
The event concluded with the signing of a commemorative plaque for KHAS Mosque in Taman Kawasan Mekkah by the Social Affairs Minister and City Mayor, marking part of efforts to strengthen religious and social facilities for the local community.