From Sandals to Superheroes: The Inspiring Journey of Mukhlis
Picture this: an eight‑year‑old kid from West Java, Indonesia, strapping a knapsack on his back and wearing sandals while gripping each step with his hands. It sounds like a scene from a quirky movie, but for Mukhlis Abdul Holik, it’s a real‑life adventure that’s captured the heart of a nation.
The Mantra: “Hands First, Feet Later”
- Very Tiny Legs: Mukhlis’s legs are so small he can’t even see the front of his classmates’ shoes.
- Unconventional Sandals: Instead of sneakers, he slides sandals that have no shoes at all, just a comfy rock‑sized sole.
- Hand‑Solo Walk: He uses his hands to pull himself along the worn wooden bridge, never quite putting his sneakers down.
- Distance: He covers nearly 6 km each day in a rocky, one‑way trek to and from school.
- Mom’s Support: He’s never alone; his mother walks beside him, cheering him on.
Why It Caught Everyone’s Eye
Mukhlis’s story has become a buzz in a country of 260 million people. The platform’s human‑touch narrative hit the sweet spot behind both child resilience and daily grit. A few headlines spread across social media and caught the attention of President Jokowi, who sat down for a heart‑warming interview with Mukhlis and his mother.
Some folks even joked that “Mukhlis is the newest rock‑hiking personality, show‑off the left hand, right hand!” But beneath the laughter lies a powerful reminder that no matter how small you may seem, every step forward is a victory.
Key Takeaway
Through persistence and family love, this little boy proves that the real world doesn’t need comfortable shoes to make a difference. It just needs a brave spirit, determined hands, and everyone’s solidarity. Go Mukhlis!
From a Steep Path to a Bright Future
Meet Holik, a small boy with a big dream. Every day he climbs the rough, uphill road to school, refusing to let a little rain or a steep slope slow him down. His mother, Pipin, calls him “Holik” with a chip of pride in her voice.
Daily Milestones
- Stiff uphill climb: Daily crawl
- Weather doesn’t matter: Rain or shine
- Never a complaint: Gratitude and patience
- When we’re short on cash: He hears the motorbike call
Meeting a Leader on a Special Day
On International Day of Persons with Disabilities (Dec 3), Holik had the honor of meeting Indonesia’s president, Joko Widodo. The boy was ecstatic, and the president was equally intrigued.
“I asked Joko if he wanted anything from me,” Joko said in a statement. “I thought he might ask for a gift—maybe a fancy bike or something—but he was quiet. He simply said he wants to go to university.”
Dreams Beyond the Hills
- Firefighter
- Doctor
- Astronaut
“I want to be a firefighter, a doctor, and an astronaut,” Holik declared with a grin. “I won’t let anything stop me from reaching the stars.”
The story of Holik reminds us that persistence, hope, and a sprinkle of ambition can turn a steep climb into a climb toward the sky.
Indonesia Takes Bold Steps to Embrace Disabilities
Short News Report – A fresh wave of change is sweeping Indonesia, aiming to empower people with disabilities and bring them into the mainstream.
What’s Happening?
- Access for All – New streets, public buildings, and transport hubs are getting ramps, lifts, and tactile paving to make them fully accessible.
- Campus Inclusion – Universities are rolling out scholarships, specialized tutoring, and classroom tech to support students with various needs.
- Workplace Warmer – Companies are signing up for incentives that promote hiring people with disabilities, turning the workforce into a diversity champion.
- Health & Care – Local clinics are adding mobile diagnostic units so that medical services reach even the most remote villages.
- Community Heroes – New support groups are forming in every province, offering emotional support, skill training, and a platform to share success stories.
Why It Matters
Every more accessible city street, every inclusive classroom, and every welcoming workplace translates into greater freedom of choice for people with disabilities. It also reminds society that diversity isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a shared experience that enriches the entire nation.
What You Can Do
- Volunteer – Offer your time to local NGOs that support people with disabilities.
- Donate – A small contribution can help fund adaptive equipment, mobility courses, or medication access.
- Spread the Word – Share stories on social media or in your community to raise awareness.
Real Stories, Real Impact
Take Maya, a 31‑year‑old architect with visual impairment. She recently relocated to a newly upgraded city center that features dalt training sensors and audio cues in bus stops. “The city feels like it’s finally listening to me,” Maya shares, smiling. “I can navigate without a guide anymore.”
Final Thought
Indonesia’s new policies aren’t just about brick and mortar – they’re about punching the status quo and saying yes to a brighter, more inclusive future.
