A Giving Spirit in the Holy Month
Ramadan is a time of blessings and reflection for Muslims worldwide, a month when acts of kindness and generosity take center stage. In Bandung, Indonesia, Tzu Chi volunteers embraced this spirit by preparing over a thousand meal boxes for those observing the fast.
LEFT: Volunteers began preparing meal boxes at 5 a.m., ensuring they were ready for distribution before iftar. RIGHT: A total of 1,047 meal boxes, each containing rice and three vegetarian dishes, were carefully prepared to nourish those breaking their fast. | Photos: Muhammad Dayar | Indonesia | 2025/3/9
Before dawn on March 9, 2025, a total of 57 volunteers gathered at the Tzu Chi Jing Si Hall in Bandung. Their mission? To prepare and distribute meal boxes in time for iftar—the breaking of the fast.
Meals that Carry a Message of Care
Volunteer Tetty Irawati expressed the deep meaning behind the initiative, saying, "We prepared these meal boxes to share with those fasting. It’s a beautiful opportunity to cultivate blessings and strengthen bonds with the community."
Each of the 1,047 meal boxes contained rice and three vegetarian dishes—wholesome meals designed to provide nourishment after a long day of fasting. Volunteer Lianne Megata added, "Beyond distributing meals, we hope to inspire others to join in acts of kindness."
The distribution was a collaboration between Tzu Chi Bandung Office and PT Panghegar Mitra Abadi, ensuring that meal boxes reached people in need. Locations included the Panghegar Soekarna Hatta and Cibereum gas stations, where recipients ranged from motorcyclists, bus drivers, and rideshare drivers to parking attendants and local street vendors.
Delivering Kindness—Rain or Shine
By 3 p.m., the meal boxes were ready for distribution. Despite heavy rain, volunteers remained dedicated, ensuring each box reached those in need.
Among the recipients was Asep Mu’min, a motorcycle taxi driver. Holding his meal box, he shared, "This help came just at the right time! Often, I’m so busy taking orders that I don’t have time to eat, and rainy days make work harder. This meal is a blessing."
Engaging Youth in Acts of Kindness
The initiative also involved Tzu Chi youth volunteers, who invited university students to join and experience the spirit of giving firsthand. Volunteer Nasywa, a participant in the event, remarked, "We hope this activity helps more students understand Tzu Chi and inspires young people to join our mission of kindness."
A Warm Conclusion to a Heartfelt Day
This meal distribution transcended religious and cultural boundaries, embodying the purity of love and care. Tzu Chi Bandung Office Deputy Coordinator, Henking Wargana, emphasized the importance of continuing this spirit of giving, saying, "Tzu Chi is guided by the philosophy of great love. We hope harmony and compassion will always be part of our community."
Through these meals, volunteers not only provided nourishment but also warmth to the hearts of those they served, making this Ramadan an even more meaningful and compassionate occasion.
By Moch Rizki Hermadinata
