Tangerang, Indonesia - Students from Universitas Mercu Buana (UMB) Jakarta have been making significant strides to support local communities with various assistance projects aimed at addressing social issues and improving living conditions. On Tuesday, they delivered submersible water pumps to residents of Kampung Baru Dadap, located within Tangerang County, to improve access to clean water. This initiative aligns with several objectives outlined by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Safto Adi Wibowo, the Head of Student Character Development at UMB, shared insights on this mission. 'This assistance reflects our social responsibility and addresses urgent needs for clean water and sanitation,' he stated. Safto explained how students are urged to analyze the pressing issues faced by their communities and play active roles in crafting solutions. 'We’re inviting students to solve problems right from their neighborhoods with swift and appropriate solutions.'
For Kampung Baru Dadap, this meant facilitating clean water through well-digging projects. Beyond water access, UMB students are also extending their outreach to special education schools by enhancing educational resources, assisting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with promotion and business spaces, and creating community literacy gardens.
The execution of these programs commenced with planning stages starting June 2024, leading to implementation slated for September 2024, and completion expected by February 2025. Safto mentioned, 'Students involved will receive training this August to understand the SDGs concept and its practical application.' A team of 25 third-semester mentors will serve as coordinators bridging communication between new students and program organizers to streamline efforts.
Looking at the enthusiasm generated, Safto expressed plans to propose more comprehensive projects. 'This year is still considered our pilot project, which has had some challenges. But we’re confident, with improvements and evaluations, this initiative will continue.'
With projects like these, UMB aims to nurture the 'golden generation' of 2045, which embodies resilience and distinguishing between collective and individual interests. Students are also encouraged to engage actively in social activities beyond campus, benefitting communities at large.
Meanwhile, efforts to provide for the youth have also been seen from the corporate sector. PT Stardust Estate Investment (SEI) recently donated food supplies to two orphanages, Raudhatul Fitrah and Alesintowe, located in Kolonodale. These contributions are part of the company’s commitment to improving children's nutritional intake, providing essentials such as 1.2 tons of rice, eggs, milk, and toiletries.
A representative from SEI stated, 'We hope this assistance can meet the daily nutritional needs of the children at the orphanages.' This sentiment was echoed by Ahmad Darwis Iksan, the chairman of Raudhatul Fitrah, who expressed gratitude for the company's continuous support toward the well-being of local children.
Social assistance also reached families struggling with health issues. On February 24, 2025, Purwakarta's Police Chief AKBP Lilik Ardhiansyah, accompanied by Bhayangkari's chairwoman, Ny. Ira Lilik, provided aid to Prisda Sucialaras Sati, who is battling cervical cancer. This support included staple food items, cash donations, and school supplies for her children.
The police chief emphasized the importance of community solidarity and support during tough times, stating, 'This reflects the police's commitment to being friends with the community and supporting those in need.' He called for others to contribute as well, reinforcing the need for collective compassion through action.
Such initiatives highlight the diversity of support systems being implemented across Indonesia, driven by both educational institutions and the private sector, reflecting the collective effort to address social challenges and uplift vulnerable populations. The initiatives demonstrate the potential of community-driven projects to effect change and inspire others to participate.
While the country continues to face challenges, these social support interventions offer hope, presenting tangible benefits to communities by promoting health, education, and welfare. The combination of youth engagement, corporate responsibility, and direct assistance reflects Indonesia's commitment to fostering resilience and social equity through collaboration.