Penyandang

Penyandang is an Indonesian term used to refer to a person who has or bears a certain condition, status, or need. The word is formed with the prefix pen- and the root yandang, functioning as an agent noun that denotes a person who carries or experiences a particular situation. The term is commonly employed in official and policy contexts to emphasize person-centered language.

In social policy and public discourse, penyandang is used in phrases such as penyandang disabilitas (persons with disabilities) and penyandang masalah kesejahteraan sosial (PMKS). This reflects a shift from earlier labels toward language that prioritizes dignity, rights, and inclusion. The phrase penyandang disabilitas has gained wide acceptance in Indonesian law and policy. For example, the Undang-Undang Nomor 8 Tahun 2016 tentang Penyandang Disabilitas recognizes the rights of people with disabilities and directs measures on accessibility, education, healthcare, and non-discrimination.

Penyandang disabilitas are supported through programs coordinated by national and local government agencies, including rehabilitation services, accessibility improvements in public spaces, inclusive education initiatives, and social protection mechanisms. The category PMKS encompasses individuals who require social welfare services due to conditions such as poverty, homelessness, or neglect, and is used to organize targeted aid and interventions.

Overall, penyandang serves as a general term in Indonesian administration and social policy to describe individuals who possess a given condition or require specific support, with an emphasis on respect, rights, and empowerment. See also: disability rights, PMKS, penyandang disabilitas.