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In Memory of the Unspoken Histories

Eid al-Fitr, known in Indonesia as Idul Fitri, is one of the most important religious holidays in the Muslim world. It marks the end of Ramadan, a holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. Eid is a time for family, celebration, and sharing, especially with those in need. It offers a moment to express compassion, solidarity, and humanity.

In the spirit of Eid, Indonesia for Humanity (IKa), through its Pundi Insani platform, a fundraising initiative for the recovery and empowerment of victims of human rights violations, carried out the “Eid Gift for the Elderly” program. This program is a form of respect and support for elderly individuals, particularly those who are survivors or family members of survivors of past human rights violations. Throughout their lives, many have endured stigma, discrimination, and social exclusion.

These Eid gifts were distributed through IKa’s grassroots community networks across four regions: Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam (NAD), Sumatra, Java, and Sulawesi. These communities have consistently accompanied and supported elderly survivors in their respective areas.

With a spirit of volunteerism and deep compassion, community members visited each elder door to door, even venturing into remote and hard-to-reach areas, to ensure the gifts were received by those most in need. This distribution method demonstrates not only the communities’ commitment to humanitarian values but also ensures that no elderly survivor is forgotten.

Java: "Diuwongke" — Feeling Seen and Valued

In Java, IKa collaborated with a local survivor organization that has long advocated for reconciliation as a means to address serious human rights violations of the past. Many of the elderly survivors in this region live alone and rely on others for support. For them, the Eid gift is more than material assistance—it is a symbol of recognition and dignity. The Javanese word “diuwongke”, meaning “to be treated as a person,” captures this feeling.

Mrs. MG (82), who lives alone in a small house at the edge of a yard, beamed with joy as she received her gift. She shared her hope of using the money to buy food and pay for transportation to the community health center and her church.

Mr. SK (79), who cares for his wife with mental health challenges while farming modestly, expressed heartfelt gratitude:
"Thank you very much, this help eases our daily needs. But more than the money, this support makes me feel 'diuwongke'—valued and acknowledged."
His words remind us of how fragile, yet deeply thankful, their lives remain.

Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam (NAD): “Overcoming Obstacles, Finding Hope”

In Aceh, IKa partnered with a local organization focused on empowering women and children and advocating for human rights. Distributing the Eid gifts here was no easy task—volunteers braved pothole-ridden roads, landslides, and relentless heavy rain. Yet their spirit never wavered. They traveled across difficult terrain to deliver the gifts to elders who waited with hope and anticipation.

The emotional responses and sincere words of thanks from the recipients revealed the deep meaning behind this act of care. They no longer felt forgotten—someone still remembers them, still cares, even from afar.

Sulawesi: Mrs. CT and a Symbol of Hope

In Sulawesi, IKa worked with a local organization that actively supports vulnerable, marginalized, and impoverished groups in the region.

One of the recipients, Mrs. CT (75), lives in a simple home and had never received any form of assistance before. She was overwhelmed and almost in disbelief when she received the Eid gift. For her, the gift wasn’t just about daily necessities, it was a symbol that she is still remembered, that someone still cares, and that even though her life is quiet and difficult, it has not gone unnoticed.

Sumatra: An Unfading Personal Commitment

In Sumatra, IKa partnered with Mr. YF, an individual volunteer and the child of a human rights violation survivor. With personal dedication, he delivered the gifts to elderly survivors across multiple locations. Mr. YF is not only a volunteer but also part of the survivor community. He understands deeply the pain and historical burden still carried by these elders. His commitment stands as a powerful testament to intergenerational solidarity and remembrance.

The stories and reflections gathered from these communities highlight the lives of elderly survivors who are rarely seen by the public. These are not just elders, they are living witnesses to a dark chapter in history that continues to leave emotional and social scars.

Through these simple Eid gifts, Indonesia for Humanity (IKa) and its network offer more than material support. They send a powerful message: You are not alone. You are still seen. Compassion and solidarity live on, even among those who did not experience your suffering firsthand.

To all our supporters, especially our international donors, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your contributions keep the light of humanity burning and give hope to those who have carried silent burdens for far too long. Thank you for walking with us.

#PundiInsani #EidAlFitr #BerbagiuntukBerdaya #GlobalGiving

Links:

• Pundi Insani - Description