JAKARTA - Building the independence of people with Down syndrome requires a long process and support from various parties.
Not only families, but also the surrounding environment, schools, communities, and the business world have a role in creating a learning space that allows them to develop their abilities according to their potential.
Through proper guidance, people with Down syndrome can learn life skills, increase self-confidence, and have the opportunity to participate in the world of work.
This approach is one of the efforts that continue to be developed by various communities that accompany children with Down syndrome.
In addition to therapy, practical skills training is considered important to help them be more independent in carrying out daily activities while preparing for the future.
In line with this, PT Lautan Luas Tbk in collaboration with the Bandung Association of Parents of Children with Down Syndrome (POTADS) has held a number of programs focused on skill development, therapy, and increasing the independence of children with down syndrome.
The series of activities began with a hydroponic training which was attended by 20 children on June 20, 2026. In this activity, participants were invited to learn how to plant and care for hydroponic plants.
This activity not only provides new experiences, but also trains motor skills, concentration, and the ability to follow instructions through the guidance of six facilitators.
In addition to skill training, the collaboration also includes a sustainable therapy program entitled Lautan Luas PETA (Children's Therapy Education Training). This program, which started in July 2026 and lasted for one year, is aimed at helping to meet the needs of therapy for 40 children with Down syndrome, consisting of 20 children receiving speech therapy and 20 children receiving physiotherapy.
"We believe that every child has unique potential that should be supported. Through collaboration with POTADS Bandung, Lautan Luas wants to be present not only through the support provided, but also as a partner who opens access to skills, self-development, and wider opportunities for children with Down syndrome. We hope that the series of programs we present can help them grow more independent and confident in their daily lives and prepare for the future,"
This was stated by Eurike Hadijaya, Head of Investor Relations, Corporate Communications & ESG PT Lautan Luas Tbk.
Another program focuses on increasing readiness to enter the workforce through inclusive barista training. A total of six participants will undergo intensive training for three months to learn coffee brewing skills while understanding the basic operations of a coffee shop.
After completing the training, participants will undergo an internship at a number of coffee shops that are partners of POTADS Bandung. Through this experience, they are expected to have the opportunity to get to know the working environment directly as well as open up opportunities to be recruited if they are deemed ready during the internship.
Rina Niawati as the Supervisor of POTADS Bandung assessed that programs like this can provide benefits for the learning process of children with Down syndrome.
"From therapy, hydroponic training, to job training, children get the opportunity to learn, develop skills, and build their confidence. We hope that this initiative can open more opportunities for children to grow independently, participate actively in society, and gain wider access to the world of work," said Rina Niawati.
Cross-sector collaboration like this is one example of how support for children with Down syndrome does not stop at the health aspect, but also includes the development of skills and the provision of opportunities to actively participate in society.
This effort is expected to encourage the creation of an increasingly inclusive environment, as well as expand opportunities for people with Down syndrome to live more independently according to their respective abilities.
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