MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, BANDUNG — Following the recent earthquake in Bandung Regency, Muhammadiyah has taken the lead in reconstruction efforts, particularly in the hard-hit Kertasari subdistrict. The organization has initiated the rebuilding of SMP Muhammadiyah 3 Kampung Neglasari, a school damaged in the quake.
On Thursday, October 31, a groundbreaking ceremony was held to mark the beginning of the reconstruction project. Chairperson of the Muhammadiyah Provincial Board of West Java Ahmad Dahlan, and Chairperson of the Muhammadiyah Department of Charity Management (Lazismu) Ahmad Imam Mujadid Rais, led the ceremony, which was attended by various stakeholders, including local government officials and community members.
Lazismus played a pivotal role in coordinating the reconstruction efforts. Ahmad Imam Mujadid Rais explained that Lazismu has received a mandate from the Central Board of Muhammadiyah to provide assistance to the affected communities in Kertasari.
“The Central Board of Muhammadiyah, after receiving reports from the Muhammadiyah Disaster Management Center (MDMC) and Lazismu, directed us to coordinate closely with the Muhammadiyah Provincial Board of West Java,” he said.
Lazismu is committed to collaborating with various stakeholders to complete the reconstruction of SMP Muhammadiyah 3 and other affected schools. The organization is actively fundraising to support the rebuilding efforts.
“We will strive to mobilize resources from within and outside Muhammadiyah to support this reconstruction,” said Mujadid Rais.
Meanwhile, Zaini Abdul Malik, head of the Kertasari Earthquake Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force, highlighted the significance of the collaborative efforts.
“This earthquake has impacted us all. That’s why the Muhammadiyah Provincial Board of West Java formed a team to accelerate the response and implement the Indonesia Siaga program in Kertasari,” he said.
The reconstruction team has a six-month timeline to complete the project, focusing on both physical infrastructure and community support. “We will be rebuilding three classrooms initially, with plans for expansion in the future,” Zaini explained. Additionally, the team will provide psychosocial support and economic empowerment programs for the affected communities.
Besides, Chairperson of the Muhammadiyah Provincial Board of West Java Ahmad Dahlan, emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in the recovery process.
“Muhammadiyah remains committed to serving the community, especially in times of crisis. Let us work together to rebuild Kertasari and strengthen our nation,” said Ahmad Dahlan.
Lazismu, through its philanthropic initiatives, aims to provide tangible assistance to those in need, aligning with its mission of sharing with others.
