Merakit: Rehabilitasi Bersumber dari Masyarakat untuk Penyandang Disabilitas

Summary

This transcript highlights the challenges and triumphs of individuals with disabilities in Toraja, Indonesia, focusing on their societal struggles and the support provided by RBM (Rehabilitasi Berbasis Masyarakat). It discusses how society views children with disabilities, often leading to discrimination, but also how some parents perceive their children as blessings. Through RBM's efforts, children with disabilities are taught valuable skills and receive tailored education. The dedicated field workers share their experiences of overcoming difficult journeys to teach and support these children, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in uplifting individuals with disabilities.

Takeaways

• 😀 The RBM program began in 1994 in Toraja and aims to provide education and support to children with disabilities.
• 😀 Societal stigma in Toraja causes many parents to feel ashamed of their children with disabilities, believing it to be a result of their own wrongdoing.
• 😀 Some parents, however, see their children with disabilities as a blessing and feel that no further intervention is needed.
• 😀 The RBM program offers home visits, ensuring that children receive personalized education tailored to their individual needs.
• 😀 Children in the program receive different types of education: basic literacy for those who can read and write, life skills for those with more severe disabilities, and vocational skills for older children.
• 😀 The products made by children in the program are sold, and the income goes directly to the children, supporting their personal growth and development.
• 😀 The workers face challenges, such as walking long distances in remote areas and carrying heavy educational materials, but they are motivated by the joy they bring to children.
• 😀 The goal of the program is to uplift the dignity and rights of children with disabilities, ensuring they are accepted as equals in society.
• 😀 The program's success relies not just on teachers or parents, but also on the support of the community, which plays a critical role in achieving its goals.
• 😀 People with disabilities in Indonesia are advocating for equal access to education, employment, and other opportunities, hoping to have the same rights and status as non-disabled individuals.

Q & A

What is the general perception of people with disabilities in Toraja as mentioned in the transcript?

The perception is largely negative, with many people believing that children with disabilities are the result of their parents' sins. This leads to feelings of shame and the belief that children should be hidden from the public.

How do some parents view children with disabilities differently?

Some parents see their children with disabilities as a blessing or a gift from God, choosing not to seek further intervention and instead accepting their condition as part of their life.

What role does RBM (Rehabilitasi dan Bantuan Masyarakat) play in supporting children with disabilities?

RBM provides educational and skills development support for children with disabilities, including personalized programs tailored to their needs. They also ensure that parents consent to their children's participation.

What types of support and services does RBM provide to children with disabilities?

RBM offers a variety of programs, such as basic literacy and numeracy for children who can read and write, daily living skills for those with more severe disabilities, and vocational training for older children.

How does the community react to RBM workers visiting households?

Some members of the community misinterpret RBM workers' visits, thinking they are selling products rather than providing educational services. However, children are always excited and happy to receive RBM's support.

What is the significance of RBM workers carrying large bags during their visits?

The large bags carried by RBM workers contain teaching materials and tools for skills training, not products for sale, which is a misunderstanding some community members have.

How has the pandemic affected RBM's approach to supporting children?

Despite the pandemic, RBM continued its work by following health protocols and obtaining parental consent before visiting children’s homes. The focus remained on providing educational support safely.

What is the core motivation behind RBM's work with children with disabilities?

The core motivation is to uplift the rights and dignity of children with disabilities, ensuring that their dreams and potential are nurtured despite societal challenges.

What does RBM hope to achieve in terms of social integration for children with disabilities?

RBM hopes for children with disabilities to be accepted by society just like other children, with equal opportunities in education, employment, and overall access to rights and services.

What is the message conveyed by the testimonies of individuals like Ana Riana Arif?

Ana Riana Arif’s testimony highlights the transformative impact of RBM on her life, showing how the organization empowered her to contribute to the community, particularly by teaching children with disabilities.