MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, EAST NUSA TENGGARA – In Tliu, a remote village in Amanuban Timur district, East Nusa Tenggara, access to clean water has long been a dream. But thanks to the unwavering efforts of the Muhammadiyah Council for Community Empowerment (MPM), that dream is becoming a reality.
On February 21, the MPM officially inaugurated a new clean water infrastructure project, complete with a pipeline system and a central reservoir. This significant development marks a turning point for the village, promising improved sanitation and economic opportunities.
But MPM didn’t stop there. They also established the FETO MONE Community-Based Clean Water Management Association, its name symbolizing the unity it aims to cultivate. With members from diverse religious backgrounds, FETO MONE embodies the spirit of inclusivity that Muhammadiyah champions.
The inauguration ceremony was a testament to collaboration and community spirit. Abdul Mu’ti, General Secretary of Muhammadiyah, expressed his appreciation for MPM’s dedication and the long journey, filled with challenges and triumphs, that led to this success.
He emphasized the importance of using this newfound resource wisely, urging the villagers to harness it for collective benefit. He envisioned a future where clean water fuels not just basic needs but also economic growth through agriculture, fisheries, and other endeavors.
But Mu’ti also sounded a cautionary note, stressing the need for responsible management to avoid potential conflicts over this precious resource. He drew inspiration from Islamic history, reminding everyone that managing water, like managing the sacred Zamzam well, is a noble responsibility.
The project, made possible through a partnership with PT Penjaminan Infrastruktur Indonesia (PT PII), is already making a tangible impact. Over 500 residents are now enjoying clean water at their doorstep, alleviating the daily struggle of fetching water from distant rivers.
Gratitude filled the air as Abdul Qodir Lenamah, representing the community, expressed their heartfelt thanks to MPM. “Air su dekat,” he declared, meaning “water is close,” echoing the newfound ease of access that has transformed lives.
Muhammadiyah’s initiative goes beyond just providing clean water. It’s about empowering communities, fostering unity, and building a brighter future where progress and inclusivity go hand in hand. As Tliu embraces this new chapter, it serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to follow its path towards a more sustainable and equitable future.
