MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, CAIRO – Delivering humanitarian aid from Muhammadiyah, Indonesia’s second-largest Muslim organization, to Palestinians in Gaza has hit a roadblock. Thankfully, the Indonesian Embassy in Cairo has stepped in, offering assistance to ensure the aid reaches its intended recipients.
The Indonesian Ambassador to Egypt, Lutfi Rauf, accompanied by the First Secretary of the Indonesian Embassy, Dian Ratri Astuti, welcomed the arrival of the Emergency Medical Team (EMT) of Muhammadiyah and representatives of the Muhammadiyah Special Branch (PCIM) of Egypt on Sunday, January 28.
On Sunday, January 28, the Muhammadiyah EMT Advance Team, led by Naibul Umam, and presentatives of the Muhammadiyah Special Branch (PCIM) of Egypt met with Indonesian Ambassador Lutfi Rauf and the First Secretary of the Indonesian Embassy, Dian Ratri Astuti.
Umam explained that the Indonesian people’s donations for Palestinians were facing difficulties entering Gaza due to tight security measures and a lengthy permit process in the border region.
“We specifically scheduled a meeting with the Ambassador and also sought guidance on the current situation and safety concerns related to aid delivery,” said Umam.
Ambassador Rauf acknowledged the difficulties, highlighting the strict security measures and lengthy permitting process in place since 2012 around the Al-Arish Sinai North border with Rafah.
“It is important to maintain good relations with the Egyptian government, noting that they have designated the Egyptian Ministry of Health and Egyptian Red Crescent (ERC) as the official channels for aid distribution,” said Rauf.
Dian Ratri, the Embassy’s political coordinator, provided further details on these designated aid channels.
“Recognizing the critical need for targeted assistance, it is vital for the Muhammadiyah team to gain a deeper understanding of the existing distribution networks in Egypt,” said Dian.
The conversation also touched upon the planned deployment of EMT personnel to provide healthcare services in Gaza. Both sides agreed on the importance of coordinating with the Egyptian-appointed authorities. The Embassy expressed its willingness to facilitate this process.
The EMT Muhammadiyah is currently in Egypt for a two-week assessment mission. They aim to tailor their aid efforts based on the specific needs of Palestinian refugees while adhering to established protocols and ensuring the safety of their personnel. This collaboration with the Indonesian Embassy and Egyptian authorities demonstrates a shared commitment to delivering vital assistance to those in need, despite the logistical challenges.
