The Faculty of Law at Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara (UMSU), in collaboration with the Regional Board of Aisyiyah (PWA) North Sumatra, held a talk show titled “Fulfilling the Rights of the Elderly 
for a Dignified Indonesia” along with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UMSU’s Faculty of Law and the Regional Office of the Ministry of Law and Human Rights (Kemenkumham) of North Sumatra. The event took place at the UMSU Campus Auditorium on Wednesday (May 28).
Dr. Flora Nainggolan, Head of the North Sumatra Regional Office of Kemenkumham and keynote speaker at the talk show, emphasized that the elderly are a vulnerable group entitled to special rights:
“Did you know that, under human rights principles, the elderly are entitled to very special rights… The state is obliged to accord them the highest level of respect,” Flora asserted.
She also shared that the Ministry fully supports this initiative even at the national level.
“I reported this directly to the Deputy Minister of Human Rights, and he responded, ‘This is a unique and noble event—give it full support!’” she revealed.
The atmosphere was further enlivened by an inspiring and humorous opening from Dr. Bahril Datuk, Chair of UMSU’s Board of Trustees, who addressed the elderly with warmth:
“Don’t fight forgetfulness—befriend it. Keep your spirits up, because the key to staying healthy is a joyful heart,” he said, drawing laughter from the audience.
In addition to the talk show and MoU signing, the event also featured the graduation ceremony of 25 elderly women from the Elderly Daycare Program of the Langkat Branch of Aisyiyah for the 2025 cohort, recognizing their dedication and participation in this empowerment initiative.
Dr. Nur Rahmah Amini, Chair of PWA North Sumatra, expressed her gratitude and appreciation for the collaboration between UMSU and Aisyiyah. She emphasized the need for synergy in advancing humanitarian advocacy, especially for the welfare of the elderly.
“Aisyiyah isn’t just about religious study groups. It’s a real movement—humanitarian advocacy to empower women, including the elderly, with dignity,” she declared.
The talk show, moderated by Dr. Cut Novita Srikandi, M.Hum, Chair of UMSU’s BIPA program, featured Dr. Flora Nainggolan who opened the discussion by highlighting the elderly’s position in the context of human rights:
“The elderly are a highly vulnerable group with extensive rights. The state must offer them unconditional respect and prioritized services,” she emphasized.
Dr. Flora added that elderly-friendly services have now become standard in public service offices, including immigration and legal services.
“I feel very close to paradise today, because this event is truly noble. Its only goal is to make our elderly mothers happy,” she said with emotion, receiving applause from the audience.
Next, Prof. Dr. Ida Hanifah, S.H., M.H., a prominent Aisyiyah figure and UMSU academic, invited the audience to view the elderly as national assets, not burdens.
“We must shift the paradigm. The elderly are not a burden—they are invaluable sources of wisdom, values, and experience,” she noted.
She highlighted Aisyiyah’s ongoing role in providing education and support to the elderly across various regions:
“Law No. 13 of 1998 guarantees the rights of the elderly, from healthcare to education. Aisyiyah acts as a bridge to implement this law at the grassroots level,” she added.
From a healthcare perspective, Dr. Fauziah Heni, Sp.T.H.T.K.L., underscored the importance of a holistic view of elderly wellbeing—encompassing physical, emotional, and spiritual health:
“Elderly health is not just about the physical body—it includes mental and spiritual wellbeing. Elderly individuals who are socially and emotionally active tend to live longer and healthier lives,” she explained.
She praised Aisyiyah’s elderly daycare program as an exemplary initiative:
“Programs like this not only support physical health but also help build self-confidence and encourage continued contributions from the elderly,” she said.
Finally, Dra. Sastrawati, a social volunteer who works closely with street children and neglected elderly, offered a grounded perspective from the field:
“Many elderly individuals are socially marginalized. Our task isn’t just to care for them, but to empower them,” she said.
She stressed that the elderly don’t need pity, but recognition and inclusion:
“Elderly happiness is simple—being embraced, listened to, and given space. That’s more than enough to keep their spirits alive,” Sastrawati concluded.
The talk show, led by Dr. Cut Novita Srikandi, M.Hum, was engaging and heartwarming. Participants, including students and elderly graduates, listened attentively and felt inspired by the speakers’ insights.
This event served as a powerful reminder that aging is not merely about growing old—but about honoring the lives that have been lived. In the face of limitations, the elderly continue to embody resilience, dignity, and spirit.
The event was attended by UMSU Board of Trustees Chair Dr. Bahril Datuk, M.M., BPH member Prof. Dr. Ida Hanifah, M.H., Vice Dean I of the Faculty of Law Dr. Zainuddin, S.H., M.H., Vice Dean III & Chair of Aisyiyah’s Legal and Human Rights Council Dr. Atika Rahmi, S.H., M.H., PWA North Sumatra Chair Dr. Nur Rahmah Amini, M.A., PWM North Sumatra Chair Drs. Mario Kasduri, M.A., Head of Kemenkumham North Sumatra Dr. Flora Nainggolan, S.H., M.Hum., Head of the North Sumatra Social Services Drs. Asren Nasution, M.A., and BKKBN North Sumatra Secretary Yus Rijal Batubara, S.E., M.M.
