Palestinian Children’s Laughter: A Gift on Indonesia’s Independence Day

AMMAN – That morning in the Zhoufah camp felt different. Palestinian children ran freely, their laughter filling the air. Some were skipping rope, others were trying out congklak (a traditional Indonesian game) for the very first time, while a few chased each other in a lively game of tag.

For them, these simple games were like small miracles. For a moment, the shadow of loss and hardship was replaced by joy and playfulness. For a moment, the world felt lighter.

All of this was made possible through the generosity of the Indonesian people, channelled via DT Peduli, which visited the Zhoufah refugee camp on 17 August 2025. Coinciding with Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day, volunteers came not only to deliver aid but also to bring happiness.

Hundreds of food parcels and direct cash assistance were distributed to families. In addition, 100 special packages containing clothing, school supplies, and toys were gifted to children—children who far too often encounter the struggles of survival rather than the joys of childhood.

Muhammad Ihsan, Director of the DT Peduli Community Service Division (LPM), who joined the distribution, was visibly moved as he watched the children laugh.

“In the midst of hardship, their smiles give us strength. Together with the celebration of Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day, we invited the children to play and rejoice. Their laughter is the most beautiful gift, uniting Indonesia’s spirit of independence with Palestine’s hope,” he said.

For Ihsan, this moment was more than a humanitarian mission. It was also a reminder that freedom is not the right of one nation alone.

“Independence is a universal aspiration: to live in peace and dignity. Independence for Indonesia, independence for Palestine,” he added.

Voices from the Camp

For the refugees, the assistance brought fresh hope amid their daily struggles. Ghadah, a mother originally from Tulkarem now living in the Sukhnah Camp, received the aid with tears of gratitude.

“This will only last a week. There are seven or eight of us at home. May God grant us freedom, and may we return to our country. Amen. Thank you for caring for us,” she said softly.

Alya, another refugee, expressed her thankfulness in simple yet hopeful words:

“(This aid) is wonderful for my family of four. God willing, victory will come to Palestine. If we ever have the chance to return, God willing, we will.”

DT Peduli’s humanitarian efforts in Palestinian refugee camps are a reminder that freedom and dignity are the rights of all people. On Indonesia’s Independence Day, the laughter of Palestinian children became an emotional bridge, connecting two nations with different circumstances, yet the same dream: to live in peace, free from oppression.

Behind every food package and toy lies a prayer—that Palestine may one day achieve its long-awaited independence. And behind every burst of children’s laughter is a powerful message: hope never dies, even in exile.

This August, as Indonesia celebrates its 80th year of independence, that spirit of freedom was shared with Palestinian children in Zhoufah—so that hope and prayer continue to live on.

Because independence is not only Indonesia’s treasure, but a universal dream that belongs to all humanity.

Indonesia Merdeka, Palestine Merdeka.