On a bright morning in Parung, Bogor, West Java, the spirit of love and care remained alive throughout the community. On August 10, 2025, Tzu Chi volunteers returned to the Al-Ashriyyah Nurul Iman Islamic Boarding School to provide free dental and general medical services, as well as health education, to 1,200 students.
Continuing a Tradition of Care
The free medical clinic took place on the main playground of the Islamic boarding school, beginning with the Saman Dance, a traditional performance from Indonesia’s Aceh province presented by elementary school students. The perfectly synchronized movements and rhythmic beats kept the audience clapping in admiration. Visiting students and teachers from Tainan Tzu Chi Senior High School in Taiwan, followed with a sign language performance, sharing warmth and blessings through their gestures.
Dr. Hj. Umi Waheeda Binti H. Abdul Rahman, S.Psi., M.Si., Head of Al-Ashriyyah Nurul Iman Islamic Boarding School, encouraged students to value their health and take advantage of the clinic. She also expressed her gratitude for the long-standing support from Tzu Chi and the Tzu Chi International Medical Association (TIMA).
“Since 2003, we have been fortunate to work with Tzu Chi. Their support goes beyond medical clinics—they have provided scholarships, Chinese language education, and even brought agricultural experts from Taiwan to support us in agricultural development and other fields of advancement. The medical teams always care for our students with patience and kindness. We will always remember this friendship.”
— Dr. Hj. Umi Waheeda Binti H. Abdul Rahman
LEFT: Students at the boarding school received dental care during the Tzu Chi free clinic. RIGHT: Dr. Hj. Umi Waheeda Binti H. Abdul Rahman (second left) encouraged students to value their health and thanked Tzu Chi and TIMA for their ongoing support. | Photos: Fikhri Fathoni
Amid his busy schedule caring for patients, Tzu Chi volunteer Philip Tanjaya from Tangerang, who coordinated the free clinic, shared that Tzu Chi has been holding two clinics each year at the school for many years. “We have built a strong relationship with this school, coming here regularly twice a year to provide free clinics,” he said.
A week before the clinic, Tanyaja and other volunteers visited the boarding school to coordinate with the staff and carefully assess the venue and logistics. “Last week, we visited here in advance to get approval and make preparations. Today, we are providing medical services for 1,000 general patients and 200 dental patients,” said Tanyaja.
Under the shade of tents, students waited patiently for their turn. Among them was 18-year-old Akbar Khasbullah, a senior student suffering from persistent tooth pain. After examination, the dentist recommended both a filling and an extraction.
Akbar admitted feeling nervous about the anesthesia and procedure but was grateful for the free treatment. “First, they checked my teeth. One needed a filling, so they drilled out the decay and filled it. The other needed to be pulled, so they gave me an injection. I was really nervous! But now, eating won’t hurt anymore. I’m very thankful to the doctors.”
Dr. Fransiscus Xaverius Ganny, a dentist with TIMA (Tzu Chi International Medical Association), explained that most students had cavities or severely damaged teeth. He said, “Today’s clinic includes general and dental services, as well as oral health education. I’m responsible for extractions, and most cases are fillings or extractions due to cavities. We gather patients, register them, examine their teeth, and decide on the treatment.” He emphasized the importance of oral hygiene, noting that most dental problems stem from poor habits.
LEFT: Before the clinic began, everyone prayed for a smooth event. RIGHT: Dr. Fransiscus Xaverius Ganny (left) provided dental care to students. | Photos: Fikhri Fathoni
Learning Self-Reliance and Gratitude
The partnership between Tzu Chi and Nurul Iman began in 2003 and has grown over the years. This time, students and teachers from Tainan Tzu Chi Senior High School joined the event, gaining insight into the students’ self-reliant lifestyle.
At the boarding school, students not only receive academic education but also learn about recycling and resourcefulness. They turn waste plastic into eco-bricks, make organic compost, and cultivate oyster mushrooms. These efforts help support the school’s daily needs and provide practical skills for the students.
LEFT: Tainan Tzu Chi Senior High student Yu-Jui Chen observed oyster mushrooms cultivated by the students. RIGHT: Tainan Tzu Chi Senior High students listened carefully as boarding school students explained the composting process.
Tainan Tzu Chi Senior High student Jui-Ya You (游睿雅) was inspired by what she saw. “Even though their environment is tough, the students face life with sincerity and effort. It makes me appreciate what I have. As Master Cheng Yen teaches us: ‘realize, cherish, and cultivate blessings.’”
Another student, Yu-Jui Chen (陳昱瑞), was impressed by the students’ resilience and independence. “Life here isn’t easy. The school’s funding comes from their own work, not tuition fees.” He was also happy to perform sign language at the clinic’s opening. “I’m glad I could share what I’ve practiced with everyone.”
Through these connections, students and volunteers learn from each other, turning love and care into a force that bridges religious differences and touches hearts.
Written by Fikhri Fathoni
Translated by Mindy Chen (陳敏理)
Source: 守護習經院健康 義診嘉惠一千兩百名學子
