The
prolonged economic meltdown of 1997 combined with internal armed
conflict has created a trail of destruction across Indonesia
with the numbers of destitute people doubling to approximately
100 million. This social unrest has resulted in 1.3 million
people being internally displaced. Amongst them are
approximately 700,000 children from regions as far apart as Aceh
and Kalimantan in Western Indonesia to Sulawesi and Maluku in
the east.
These
children can live on just 33 (English pence) a day, so the main
purpose of this organization is to find sponsors for the
orphans.
The
tragic consequences of this conflict are affecting women and
young people the most. Many are vulnerable, traumatized and
alone, taking on whatever jobs they can find. Some of them
become street people and many have no opportunity to attend
school and little hope for the future. These young people are
being described as a ‘lost generation’. They are severely
deprived youngsters whose futures are at stake.
Allah’s
messenger (peace be upon him) said, “The one who looks after
the orphan whether he is his relative or not, I and he would be
together in Paradise like this,” and Malik (explained it) with
a gesture by drawing his index finger and middle finger close
together.” (Muslim)
I
want so much to be close to the Prophet (peace be upon him) in
Paradise. I want to help and support orphans until the day I
die. May Allah make our hearts yearn to give, not hope to
receive.