What began as a stopover for Salesians en route to East Timor in Rajawali Selatan, Jakarta has evolved into a nationwide presence with communities in North Jakarta, Tangerang, Sumba Island, East Java, Central Java, Flores Island, and now West Kalimantan. Currently, over 50 Salesian confrères serve in Indonesia, with several also working in mission territories abroad.

The expansion to Borneo was initiated by an invitation from Bishop Agustinus Agus, emeritus bishop of the Archdiocese of Pontianak, who requested Salesian oversight of the Saint Yusuf Carpentry School in March 2025. Once a thriving institution, the school had fallen into decline, prompting the Salesians’ intervention to revive and manage the woodworking school, dormitory, and workshop in line with their mission to serve poor youth.

On September 1, 2025, three Salesians—Fr. Adi Prinanto, Fr. Tarsisus Trianto, and Fr. John Laba—officially began their mission, accompanied by Fr. Vincentius Prastowo, Provincial Superior of the Vice Province of the Salesians of Indonesia. During the signing of the cooperation agreement, Bishop Agustinus expressed hope that the Salesians would restore the school’s vitality and provide opportunities for West Kalimantan’s youth. Fr. Prastowo echoed this sentiment, calling the new mission a "beautiful gift for the Church in Indonesia" on the 40th anniversary of Salesian presence.

The Archdiocese welcomed the Salesians warmly, renovating an abandoned building previously used by the Capuchins to house the new community. The facility was blessed on September 29, 2025, by Fr. John Laba, who now leads the Salesian presence in the region.

Congratulations to the Salesians of Don Bosco Indonesia for their continued growth and unwavering commitment to serving young people, as they spread their charism to Borneo and beyond.