The Faculty of Law, Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara (UMSU) successfully raised Rp38 million in donations during a humanitarian action for victims of disasters in Sumatra. The fundraising took place during the orientation and specialization selection for fifth-semester students, held at the Campus Auditorium, Jl. Muchtar Basri No. 3, Medan, on Thursday (December 11).
In his remarks, Vice Rector I Prof. Arifin stated that UMSU has already dispatched two truckloads of aid to disaster-affected areas in Aceh and North Sumatra, including Sriwijaya and Tempurung, which were among the hardest-hit locations. “We will continue distributing aid to Batang Toru and Langkat. This assistance is greatly needed,” he explained.
In addition to monetary donations, several lecturers and alumni also contributed aid packages, including medicines, wearable clothing, and ready-to-eat food. One donor even pledged to provide 500 packs of rendang so that residents would not have to rely solely on instant noodles.
He emphasized that any amount of assistance, no matter how small, is extremely meaningful for disaster victims struggling to survive.
“What our brothers and sisters are experiencing in this disaster is something we should also feel. That is the true meaning of brotherhood in Islam,” Prof. Arifin said.
Prof. Arifin also highlighted the slow response and inconsistent information from some parties regarding conditions on the ground. “We are not trying to criticize, but the facts show that information is often inaccurate. That is why direct assistance from the community is so important,” he added.
During the session, several students from affected areas shared testimonies from their families. A student from Barus recounted how wooden houses along the coast were destroyed and swept away by strong currents, leaving residents struggling to obtain basic necessities. “Some people even looted shops out of hunger. Aid has not reached us because access is very difficult,” he said.
From Takengon, Central Aceh, another student explained that many roads were cut off due to landslides, forcing aid to be delivered by helicopter. “Basic supplies are piling up at the airport because many bridges are damaged,” he shared. These stories deeply moved the audience.
The disaster that struck three provinces was previously reported to have affected 3.3 million people, claimed 753 lives, injured 2,600 others, and severely damaged more than 3,600 homes, making emergency assistance an urgent necessity.
Following the fundraising session, the event continued with the academic specialization selection within the faculty, including Criminal Law, Civil Law, Constitutional Law, Administrative Law, and International Law.
