PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - Acting Governor of West Java, Bey Machmudin, officially opened the National Working Meeting of the Foundation for the Development of Disabled Children (YPAC) throughout Indonesia at the El Royale Hotel, Bandung City, Tuesday (4/2/2025).

Carrying the theme "YPAC Ready to Implement Innovative Strategies in Facing Future Challenges", this event is an important momentum in strengthening YPAC's role in supporting children with disabilities.

In his speech, Bey Machmudin appreciated YPAC which has contributed for 72 years in providing access to education and skills for children with disabilities.

"I am truly proud and appreciate YPAC's dedication to supporting children with disabilities to have wider access to education, skills and a better future," he said.

Bey also highlighted the importance of equal opportunities for children with disabilities, including in sports. He said the West Java Provincial Government had given equal appreciation to Peparnas and PON athletes, with equal prizes: Rp300 million for gold medalists, Rp125 million for silver, and Rp60 million for bronze.

"This morning I gave awards to disabled athletes who excelled at Peparnas, including wheelchair fencing athletes from Karawang who received up to Rp1 billion. This is proof that children with disabilities have extraordinary potential and deserve equal awards," said Bey.

On that occasion, Bey also appreciated the performance of YPAC children in Sangkuriang Cabaret. For him, their courage and confidence reflect YPAC's success in fostering children with disabilities.

"Earlier, I saw the children performing so confidently. Even those of us who are healthy sometimes find it difficult to speak in public, but they were able to perform proudly and happily. This is proof of YPAC's success," he said.

Furthermore, Bey emphasized the importance of innovative strategies in the education of children with disabilities so that they can develop further.

"I am sure that with innovative strategies, YPAC will be more advanced in fostering and educating our children. And once it is advanced, it can spread this method to other educational institutions," he said.

He also emphasized that support for children with disabilities cannot only depend on the government. The role of private foundations such as YPAC is greatly needed in improving inclusive education.

"We also have a provincial special school and a clinic in Cicendo. But if we only rely on the government, it certainly won't be enough. We need help from YPAC and other foundations so that education and facilities for children with disabilities can be better," he said.

As the host of this year's YPAC Working Meeting, the West Java Provincial Government invites participants to enjoy the beauty of Bandung City, from Braga to Gedung Sate.

"We are proud that Bandung is the host. If you have time, please visit Gedung Sate or Pakuan with your children. We are ready to welcome you," he said.

At the end of his speech, Bey Machmudin officially opened the National Meeting of YPAC Working Meetings throughout Indonesia, hoping that this event would produce innovative strategies to further empower children with disabilities throughout Indonesia.

"Once again, I am very grateful to YPAC. May all the good deeds that have been given become good deeds that are recorded well. And I am sure, your fortune will always increase," he said.