Disability Services Card for North Kalimantan Launched

On Wednesday 7 May 2026, the Provincial Government of North Kalimantan commenced the updating of data and the distribution of the Disability Services Card in the City of Tarakan. This initiative reiterates the government’s commitment to inclusive development and the fulfilment of fundamental rights for all citizens, without exception.

Based on the National Single Social and Economic Data (DTSEN), as of January 2026 there are 39,293 persons with disabilities in North Kalimantan, comprising 19,165 males and 20,128 females. Tarakan records the highest number with 13,265 individuals, followed by Nunukan (9,709), Bulungan (9,248), Malinau (5,376) and Tana Tidung (1,695).

Unfortunately, the majority of this disability data remains unverified and unintegrated, which limits the ability of disabled persons to access public services and fundamental rights guaranteed under Law Number 8 of 2016 concerning Persons with Disabilities.

The updating of disability data will help ensure the proper implementation of inclusive services. Accurate and integrated data is essential for designing targeted policies that align with the needs of persons with disabilities. In this task, the Provincial Government of North Kalimantan is supported by SKALA (Synergy and Collaboration for the Acceleration of Basic Services), an Australia–Indonesia partnership program.

The data collection stages were formulated through a workshop with cross-agency institutions and professional partners. The forum agreed on two mechanisms: centralised and outreach (door-to-door). The flow of data collection, instruments, disability criteria and institutional roles were also established.

Agencies involved include the Social Service, Health Service, Population and Civil Registration Service, as well as the Regional Development Planning, Research and Innovation Agency (Bapperida). Professional partners such as HIMPSI North Kalimantan are participating to ensure integrated and effective data collection.

The program is entering its trial phase for centralised data collection in Tarakan, to test the system and identify operational challenges on the ground. The North Kalimantan government aims to promptly implement this mechanism across all regencies and cities in North Kalimantan.

“This data will form the basis for policy and access for persons with disabilities to health, education, social and employment services,” stated Governor of North Kalimantan, Zainal Arifin Paliwang, through the Expert Staff for Legal, National Unity, and Government Affairs, Robby Yuridi Hatman.

The governor hopes that this update will yield valid data regarding the types of disability, level of barrier and socio-economic conditions disabled people are facing.

The Australian Deputy Head of Mission (DHOM), Gita Kamath, was in attendance at the launch event.

“This card is not merely an identity document, but a key to accessing services and opportunities. It is an acknowledgement that persons with disabilities are a vital part of development and possess equal rights,” she said, reaffirming Australia’s support for inclusive services in North Kalimantan.

She expressed hope that this initiative will reach all areas of North Kalimantan, including border and remote regions.

“Inclusivity is not just a commitment, but a tangible step to open access and strengthen dignity.”

The Provincial Government of North Kalimantan reiterates that persons with disabilities are participants in, not targets for development. They possess rights, potential and a strategic role. All parties are invited to synergise in ensuring that the development process in North Kalimantan leaves nobody behind.