As the latest example of its commitment to community empowerment, Dan Liris on 2nd June 2014 participated in the inauguration of a new Community Learning Centre (Pusat Kegiatan Belajar Masyarakat, PKBM) in Silir, Central Java. The newly constructed Ar-Ridho Community Learning Centre was developed by Bank Mandiri as part of its corporate social responsibility program. As a means of contributing to this worthy cause, Dan Liris donated 15 sewing machines to be used as learning tools in sewing skill courses offered to locals at the PKBM. Mr Hendro Suseno, Director of Finance & Accounting, attended the inauguration on behalf of Dan Liris and was joined by esteemed guests such as the Minister of Education and Culture, Mr M. Nuh.

Mr M. Nuh during the event took the time to survey the room used for the sewing skills course and interacted with class participants. Among those taking part in the course were inmates from the Silir area, in keeping with the initiative to rehabilitate and make available opportunities to learn new skills. Silir’s checkered past as Solo’s center for illegal prostitution (which has since been officially shut down by the government) also means that the Ar-Ridho PKBM will serve to provide individuals previously involved in this activity with a chance to develop financial independence through tangible skills such as sewing. By achieving these goals, this CSR program is poised to have a substantial positive impact on the wellbeing of the Silir community.