The Indonesian Language for Foreign Speakers Institute (BIPA), in collaboration with the Promotion Unit of Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara (UMSU), organized a humanitarian initiative to support children affected by flooding in Aceh Tamiang Regency. The activity took place at Masjid Taqwa PDM Aceh Tamiang on Monday (January 26).
The event was attended by UMSU international students from Yemen, Thailand, Nigeria, and Cambodia, who provided post-disaster motivation and encouragement to approximately 50 children and their parents.
Head of BIPA UMSU, Dr. Cut Novita Srikandi, S.S., M.Hum., stated in her remarks that the initiative reflected the university community’s genuine concern for people affected by natural disasters.
“Through creative literacy activities and cross-cultural interaction, we hope the children can smile again, regain a sense of security, and rebuild their confidence to continue learning and carrying out their daily lives,” she said.
Meanwhile, Mahmud Lawan, a UMSU student from Nigeria, encouraged the flood-affected children to remain strong and confident despite the hardship they experienced.
“Floods may come suddenly and with great force. But they are not stronger than you. You are resilient children who can rise again and achieve a bright future,” Mahmud said.
The program was designed as a form of post-disaster psychosocial support, delivered through creative literacy activities and child-friendly cross-cultural engagement.
Representatives from the Regional Leadership of Muhammadiyah (PDM) and the Regional Leadership of ‘Aisyiyah (PDA) Aceh Tamiang were also present, expressing their support for the humanitarian initiative.
