Semarang. State lender PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (BNI) reiterates its commitment to empowering people with disabilities through a series of social initiatives and business capacity-building programs. The efforts coincide with the annual International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3, underscoring the bank’s ongoing support for vulnerable communities.

As part of its latest initiative, BNI has provided a briquette-making machine to the Komunitas Difabel Mandiri (Independent Disability Community) at Banjardowo Market in Genuk District, Semarang.

BNI Corporate Secretary Okki Rushartomo said the equipment is intended to boost production capacity and strengthen the long-term sustainability of the community’s business, a key source of income for its members.

“This assistance reflects our commitment to expanding economic empowerment opportunities for people with disabilities,” Okki said in a written statement.

He noted that the community had previously produced briquettes on a small scale using limited tools, restricting their ability to grow their business and improve household income.

“BNI sees the need to support this community so its members have proper facilities to develop their enterprise and enhance their family welfare,” Okki added.

The initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goals 8 and 10, which promote decent work, economic growth, and reduced inequality.

Beyond the Semarang program, BNI is also contributing to the Disability MSME Program organized by Jakarta Plus Center Foundation in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Affairs. The program, held at the Training Center of the Jakarta Provincial Social Affairs Office, provides business equipment for 10 disability-owned MSMEs, marketing access during Car Free Day, portable booths, social-media management assistance, store furniture, and custom-built assistive devices.

“We designed this program to give disability-owned MSMEs a more structured, inclusive, and sustainable development pathway,” Okki said.

Through these initiatives, BNI reinforces its long-term commitment to advancing the economic empowerment of people with disabilities by expanding business opportunities and strengthening an inclusive MSME ecosystem. The bank expects its continued efforts to help build social resilience and support greater economic independence for disability communities across Indonesia.