Breaking Barriers: Abi Marutama's Quest for Inclusivity

Abi Marutama, a researcher and disability rights advocate, has an extraordinary journey defined by perseverance and ground-breaking achievements. Despite living with visual impairment since childhood, he has worked tirelessly to overcome barriers and advocate a more inclusive society, inspiring others to follow his path.

Abi's commitment to disability rights began in 2013, when he started working as a researcher at the Centre for Indonesian Law and Policy Studies (PSHK), where he challenged negative stereotypes about people with disabilities.

"At that time, Indonesia only had Law No. 4/1997 concerning Persons with Disabilities, which treated disability as a disease. I wanted to change this perspective and advance the rights of persons with disabilities," Abi explained.

His research contributed to the drafting of Law No. 8/2016, which recognises the rights of persons with disabilities and aims to eliminate discrimination.  at PSHK received recognition and were used as references for the drafting of a new law by the Indonesian parliament (DPR).

"I was involved in the creation of this law, a process that was long and challenging but ultimately rewarding,” he said.

Abi’s advocacy stems from a deeply personal dream. As someone who once aspired to become a prosecutor, he experienced first-hand the barriers preventing people with disabilities from pursuing careers in politics and other sectors.

"I dream of a future where people with disabilities are actively involved in politics—a future that reflects Indonesia’s commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunity,” Abi shared passionately.

Impact Through Education and Networking

One of Abi’s more recent contributions is his work during the Australia Awards  project award’s short course. Collaborating with fellow participants, he developed a module focusing on the democratic rights of persons with disabilities.

The module outlines standards and procedures for ensuring safe, independent, and accessible electoral processes. It emphasises not only the right to vote but also the right for persons with disabilities to run as candidates for legislative and executive positions, from local councils to the presidency.

The module gained significant traction when the East Java Regional General Elections Commission (KPU Jawa Timur) adopted it as a reference for their electoral processes. The Commission proposed its use to the National General Election Commission for nationwide implementation. Furthermore, the module was shared with political parties, raising awareness about the potential contributions of persons with disabilities in the political sphere.

Abi's innovation and dedication during the short course earned him the prestigious Certificate of Excellence in Advancing Social Inclusion from the Queensland University of Technology.

“I remember being the only participant who received the award,” Abi reflected. "It was a proud moment that inspired me to strive further for disability rights.”

A Memorable Short Course Experience

The Australia Awards Short Course on Democratic Resilience: Youth Participation in Indonesia's Democracy provided Abi with invaluable opportunities for growth and international networking. Despite the classes being held online due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Abi actively participated and embraced every aspect of the program.

One standout experience was meeting representatives from the Brisbane City Council. Abi was inspired by their accessibility policies, which enable individuals with disabilities to navigate daily activities, including travel, independently.

Australia’s National Disability Council (NDC) also left a profound impression on Abi. The independent council empowers people with disabilities and critiques government policies to promote inclusivity.

"Australia’s ability to incorporate diverse societal issues, such as disability rights, into policies that benefit all citizens amazed me," Abi shared.

Even after completing the course, Abi remains connected with his classmates and professor, Angela Romano, through a WhatsApp group. He frequently collaborates with his peers to organise seminars on various topics and has assisted Professor Romano’s students in conducting disability rights research in Indonesia.

Abi’s expertise and lived experiences have been invaluable in shedding light on the challenges faced by people with disabilities and proposing effective solutions.  His collaboration with Professor Romano deepened when she visited Indonesia, allowing them to discuss their shared passion for disability advocacy in person.

"Joining the Australia Awards Short Course expanded my network and opened doors I never imagined,” Abi said enthusiastically.

Abi firmly believes that education is a powerful tool for change. Having faced numerous educational obstacles himself, he is determined to use his experiences to inspire others.

"I’m passionate about research and education,” Abi said. “My goal is to become a lecturer and raise awareness about disability issues. I hope to secure another scholarship from AAI to help me achieve this dream.”