By Atika,Sufenny 

Bringing Light to Lives in Muara Angke 

On March 15, 2025, the Muara Angke region of Jakarta, Indonesia, over 900 families received Ramadan relief packages, easing their daily struggles. However, the true significance of this endeavor lay beyond the material aid—it was about forging meaningful connections and providing solace to those in need. 

Tzu Chi volunteer Heri hands over a relief package to a recipient. | Photo: Raymond | Indonesia | 2025/3/15

 A Listening Ear and a Caring Heart 

A week earlier, on March 9, 81 volunteers from Tzu Chi visited homes in Muara Angke to deliver distribution tickets. Among them was Regina, a student from the Tzu Chi school, who encountered Banun, an elderly woman living alone. Almost blind and struggling to make ends meet, Banun relies on her neighbors for meals, as her fisherman son’s income is irregular. 

Originally not on the list of recipients, Banun’s hardships became evident during the visit. Volunteers decided to give her the relief supplies meant for another family that had relocated. Regina spent time with Banun, listening to her reflections on loneliness and resilience. "Not many people talk to me," Banun shared, her voice heavy with emotion. Touched by her words, Regina and other volunteers comforted her with warmth and encouragement, transforming the encounter into a cherished moment of connection and care. 

Regina (left) from the Tzu Chi school spends time with Banun, a local senior living alone. | Photo: Atika | Indonesia | 2025/3/9

 A Joint Effort to Bring Relief 

This mission of love was made possible through collaboration with local government officials, community leaders, environmental cleaners, military personnel, and police officers. On March 15, the team distributed 900 relief packages—each containing 10 kilograms of rice and 20 packs of instant noodles—to families in need. 

Lieutenant Colonel Dony Gredinan of the military commended the initiative, saying, “In a world full of challenges, unity and mutual help are vital. We appreciate Tzu Chi’s care and commitment to the Muara Angke residents.” Police Officer Dirman from Tanjung Priok also praised the volunteers, expressing hope that their actions would inspire others to follow suit. 

Volunteers gathered at the Jing Si Hall of the Tzu Chi branch before heading to Muara Angke for ticket distribution. | Photo: Dora | Indonesia | 2025/3/9

Compassion Beyond Material Aid 

This humanitarian effort was a reminder that true compassion extends far beyond physical assistance. The story of Banun serves as a powerful example—while basic necessities alleviate immediate needs, genuine connection and care provide emotional nourishment. Through their actions, volunteers in Muara Angke embodied the spirit of kindness, spreading love and hope in a place that often feels disconnected from the world. Their commitment to helping others ensures that the light of compassion continues to shine brightly. 

Natalia Cheng joined 80 other volunteers on March 9, 2025, going door-to-door to deliver distribution tickets. | Photo: Kasun Japar | Indonesia | 2025/3/9

The volunteers’ actions embody the spirit of kindness, striving to make the world a better place for everyone. Through their work, love continues to spread, uniting communities and bringing hope to those in need.