Independent Indonesia, Independent Palestine! Smiles of Palestine in Indonesia’s Independence Month

AMMAN – August has always been a month of deep meaning for the Indonesian people. Every year, the red-and-white flag waves in every corner of the country, reminding the nation of its long struggle for independence.

In August 2025, that spirit of independence is felt not only in the homeland. Far away, in Palestinian refugee camps in Jordan, the echoes of Indonesian independence brought smiles and renewed hope.

Through a humanitarian mission titled Solidarity Without Borders, DT Peduli once again delivered aid from millions of Indonesian hands to their brothers and sisters in Palestine. Amid hardship and scarcity, this assistance became a source of joy.

Smiles Amidst Hardship

Sunday (17/8/2025) was an unforgettable day for the children of Zhoufah Camp. As Indonesia celebrated its 80th Independence Day, it too found happiness alongside DT Peduli volunteers. Simple games and laughter seemed to push away the suffering that had long marked their days. Aid packages added to their joy.

The next day, Monday (18/8/2025), similar assistance was also distributed to refugees in Sukhnah Camp—both family packages and specific items for children.

In total, 150 food packages, 100 packages containing clothes, school supplies, and toys, along with 350 direct cash assistance packages, were distributed. A mobile clinic service was also launched to operate for three months. Altogether, the program reached 4,350 individuals.

Muhammad Ihsan, Director of the Community Service Division at DT Peduli, who directly oversaw the distribution, could not hide his emotions.

“Amidst their struggles, their smiles became our strength. On the 80th anniversary of Indonesia’s independence, we celebrated by playing and laughing with the children. Their joy was the most beautiful gift—uniting the spirit of Indonesia’s freedom with Palestine’s hope,” he said.

“Independence is not the privilege of a single nation. It is a universal aspiration—to live in peace and dignity. Independence for Indonesia, independence for Palestine.”

Behind the statistics, the smiles and tears of the beneficiaries reflected the priceless value of the support.

Ghadah, a refugee from Tulkarem now living in Sukhnah Camp, said with tears and a smile of gratitude:

“This is only enough for a week. There are seven or eight of us at home. May God grant us freedom, and may we return to our country. Amen, O Allah. Thank you for caring for us.”

Alya, another refugee, expressed her gratitude:

“(This assistance) is wonderful for our family of four. God willing, victory will come for Palestine. If there is a chance to return, God willing, we will.”

Halimah, a mother, added a heartfelt prayer:

“(This assistance) will last a month. May Allah ease our burdens and relieve our worries. God willing, we will be in the best condition and be granted victory. That is what matters most.”

A father from Zhoufah Camp also shared his gratitude with a radiant smile:

“Today, we want to thank Daarut Tauhiid Foundation for this blessed distribution. May Allah reward you with goodness and grant you blessings.”

Reaching Gaza

The mission did not stop in Jordan. Two days later, on Wednesday (19/8/2025), DT Peduli sent further assistance to Gaza. Two truck containers filled with essential supplies went through land routes, while one cargo shipment flew in by air.

A total of 2,304 aid packages—each containing 24 food items—were prepared to sustain Palestinian families for three to four weeks.

“Through the spirit of independence, we want to show that Indonesia always stands with them. May every grain of rice they eat, every drop of oil they use, be a continuous charity for our donors and all who support this struggle,” said Ihsan during the preparations for the Gaza shipment.

This mission was made possible through collaboration with many partners, particularly LAZIS Perkasa Yogyakarta, PLN Indonesia Power Kamojang, and LAZ Nurul Ardhi Kamojang. These partners have consistently supported Palestine alongside DT Peduli for years.

“May all staff and partners be granted ease in their activities. We also pray that our brothers and sisters in Palestine are given strength until true independence comes. Independent Indonesia, Independent Palestine,” Ihsan added.

This August stands as proof that the spirit of Indonesian independence can be transformed into humanitarian energy that crosses continents. As long as the red-and-white flag continues to fly, Indonesia will remain steadfast in accompanying Palestine’s struggle.

“Let this Independence Day remind us that independence is not the right of one nation alone, but a universal aspiration for peace and dignity. Freedom for Indonesia, freedom for Palestine,” Ihsan concluded with optimism.