Samarinda, 25 September 2024 The official opening of the Comprehensive Social Service for Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery, initiated by BAZNAS East Kalimantan, took place at Hotel Puri Senyiur in Samarinda. This event is part of a humanitarian program aimed at providing free healthcare services in the form of surgeries for children suffering from congenital cleft lip and palate disorders. Through this program, it is hoped that the quality of life and health of these children can be improved, allowing them to lead better and more confident lives. The event also aims to educate the community about the importance of early medical intervention for congenital disorders.
The opening ceremony was attended by several officials from the East Kalimantan Provincial Government, the Samarinda City Government, as well as representatives from BAZNAS East Kalimantan and Abdoel Wahab Sjahranie General Hospital. The presence of these officials demonstrates the government’s support and concern for the health issues faced by children with cleft lip and palate. This strong support reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing access to healthcare services for underprivileged communities. Additionally, the medical team from Abdoel Wahab Sjahranie General Hospital, which has experience in performing similar surgeries, is prepared to provide the best services to patients in need, with the hope of reaching more children requiring assistance.
Present at the event was Dr. drg. Cendrawasih Andusyana Farmasyanti, M.Kes.Sp.Ort, Subsp.DDTK (K), a lecturer in the Orthodontics Department at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM). She represented FKG UGM in this collaboration, bringing expertise and experience in the field of orthodontics. Dr. Cendrawasih also played a role in educating local medical personnel about the latest techniques for managing these disorders, thereby enhancing their skills and competencies. Her active participation in this event showcases UGM’s commitment to contributing to social initiatives that positively impact the wider community and support healthcare development in the region.
Through this social service, BAZNAS East Kalimantan collaborates with various parties to provide health solutions for children with cleft lip and palate disorders, particularly those from underprivileged families. This collaboration is expected to serve as an inspiration and a concrete example of how the synergy between government agencies, academia, and social organizations can directly benefit the community. Additionally, this activity aims to raise public awareness of the importance of early health screenings and provide better access to medical services for those in need. Thus, it is hoped that more children will receive appropriate and adequate care in the future.
The event also featured speeches from various stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of equitable access to healthcare services as part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Commitment to biomedical progress and equitable health access is crucial in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. The collaboration between BAZNAS, local governments, and educational institutions like UGM highlights the significance of development planning that prioritizes health equity.
In her speech, Dr. Cendrawasih emphasized the importance of early intervention in managing congenital disorders, stating, “Every child deserves a healthy life, and through this initiative, we are taking steps to ensure that this right is fulfilled.” Her words inspired the audience, reinforcing the collective responsibility to support the health and well-being of children.
The event concluded with a call for all stakeholders to continue collaborating to ensure that no child is left behind in accessing necessary medical care. The commitment to enhancing healthcare services for children with cleft lip and palate is a vital step toward achieving the SDGs, terutama pada tujuan ke-3 (Kehidupan Sehat dan Kesejahteraan), tujuan ke-4 (Pendidikan Berkualitas), tujuan ke-11 (Kota dan Pemukiman Yang Berkelanjutan), dan tujuan ke-16 (Perdamaian, Keadilan, dan Kelembagaan Yang Tangguh)
As the day ended, the atmosphere was filled with hope and determination. The collaborative efforts demonstrated during this event serve as a reminder that through unity and shared purpose, significant strides can be made to improve the lives of those in need.
Authors: drg. I Putu Arya Ramadhan, Al Haqi Insan Pratama
