HNC-An Indonesian senator has stepped in to help a grieving family from Aceh repatriate the body of their loved one from Jakarta, after the family faced financial hardship that threatened to prevent the return.
The deceased, Fadlin Khairi, 56, from Batuphat Timur village, Lhokseumawe, passed away on Friday, July 4, at a hospital in East Jakarta. His family, unable to afford the high cost of bringing his body home, sought help from H. Sudirman, popularly known as Haji Uma, a well-respected member of Indonesia’s Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) from Aceh.
Moved by the family’s plight, Haji Uma swiftly coordinated with his team and local community figures to ensure the safe return of the deceased. “This is a matter of humanity. When people are grieving, the last thing they should worry about is money,” Haji Uma said in a statement.
The total cost for the repatriation reached Rp 20.7 million (approximately USD 1,250), covering transportation, cargo, and operational expenses. The family contributed Rp 5 million, while another Rp 5 million was donated by Khaidir Abu Bakar, a local entrepreneur and owner of ZID Pharmacy. Additional support came from Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI), which provided Rp 5 million, after direct intervention from Haji Uma. The remaining amount was personally covered by the senator himself.
The body of Fadlin Khairi was flown from Jakarta to Kualanamu International Airport in North Sumatra aboard Lion Air, arriving at around 09:30 AM local time on July 5. From there, the body was transported to Lhokseumawe using an ambulance provided by Arun Hospital, another part of the humanitarian effort arranged by Haji Uma.
Readmore : Ex-Free Aceh Movement Commander Presides Over Police Day Ceremony as Aceh Governor
Upon arrival, the body was received by family members and local representatives, including staff from Haji Uma’s office. “We are forever grateful for the compassion shown by everyone involved. Without this support, we wouldn’t have been able to bring our brother home,” said Kak Nila, speaking on behalf of the grieving family.
The collaborative effort highlights the enduring importance of community solidarity in Indonesia, particularly in times of loss and hardship. It also underscores the role of public figures like Haji Uma, who has long been known for championing humanitarian causes across Aceh.
In a final message, Haji Uma expressed his appreciation for all who contributed: “We must continue to help each other. Humanity has no boundaries, and together we can ease the burdens of those in sorrow.”
As more Indonesians migrate or seek medical care in urban centers, the issue of costly repatriation continues to challenge families in remote regions. Efforts like this set a precedent for greater social cooperation and awareness, ensuring that even in death, dignity is preserved.[Mnw]
