PANGKALPINANG -- PT TIMAH (Persero) Tbk continues to strengthen its commitment to improving the quality of life in communities through its Corporate Social and Environmental Responsibility (TJSL) program. This time, the company is supporting the Foster Parent Movement to Prevent Stunting (GENTING) Program initiated by the Ministry of Population and Family Development/National Population and Family Planning Agency (Kemendukbangga/BKKBN) by providing decent housing assistance to communities living around its operational areas.
The symbolic handover of the housing assistance to three beneficiary families was attended by the Minister of Population and Family Development/Head of BKKBN, Wihaji; the Governor of Bangka Belitung Islands, Hidayat Arsani; and the Deputy Mayor of Pangkalpinang, Dessy Ayutrisna, in Ampui Village, Pangkal Balam District, Pangkalpinang City, on Thursday (August 6, 2026).
The decent housing assistance provided by PT TIMAH is part of a collaborative effort to create healthier living environments while supporting early stunting prevention by improving housing conditions that positively impact the health and well-being of families.
The three beneficiaries of the housing assistance, Muhammad Liyo Arsadana, Firdayanti, and Soleha, expressed their gratitude for the support that will benefit their families. All three recipients are classified as Families at Risk of Stunting (KRS).
During the event, Minister of Population and Family Development Wihaji explained that the GENTING Program is not solely focused on improving nutrition but also addresses the underlying factors that contribute to stunting, including inadequate housing conditions.
"One of the contributing factors to stunting is inadequate housing. That is why sanitation, access to clean water, and the overall living environment are key concerns. Today, I personally visited three beneficiary households, some of which have young children. Prevention must begin during the first 1,000 days of life," Wihaji said.
According to him, collaboration between the government and the business sector is a strategic approach to accelerating stunting prevention efforts, particularly by providing healthy housing for families in need.
"Before stunting occurs, we must address its root causes. One of those is by providing decent housing. We are grateful that PT TIMAH has stepped in as a foster parent, together with banking institutions and other companies. This assistance is delivered directly to the community without going through the ministry," he said.
Wihaji further explained that government-funded housing development programs often face various administrative challenges. Therefore, collaboration with multiple stakeholders, including the private sector through corporate social responsibility initiatives, is an effective way to expand the program's reach while complying with applicable regulations and procedures.
"When funded through regional government budgets, there are administrative requirements that must be fulfilled. That is why collaboration among various stakeholders is essential so that more communities can benefit from the program," Wihaji added.
PT TIMAH's participation in the GENTING Program reflects the company's active role in supporting government initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for communities.
Through the construction of decent housing, the company not only helps provide safer and healthier homes but also contributes to creating an environment that supports children's optimal growth and development.
In addition to supporting the GENTING Program, PT TIMAH has also collaborated with the Bangka Belitung Islands Provincial National Population and Family Planning Agency (BKKBN) to organize a Parenting Capacity Building program under the Child-Friendly Daycare Initiative (TAMASYA). (*)
