Sharing Love, UMM Present in the Middle of Griya Asih

Chancellor visiting RAAL Griya Asih, Lawang. (Photo: Istimewah)

University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) always contributes and pays attention to the broader community. The White Campus also continues to provide benefits to anyone in need. One of them is helping the elderly and children at the Griya Asih Children's and Elderly Orphanage (RAAL), Lawang, Malang, through Community Service by Students (PMM). The plan, which was held on Monday (27/9), was also attended by the Chancellor of UMM, Dr. Fauzan, M.Pd.

On that occasion, Fauzan appreciated the students who were serving there. This activity is a very noble choice because humans were created to help each other. "I was very touched when I found out that my fellow students chose themselves to help at RAAL Griya Asih. This is a noble form of sacrifice," he added.

Fauzan continued that helping others does not need to look at the background. All human beings want to be respected and upheld their dignity. So it is natural for humans to work hand in hand and help each other in goodness. "This is one of the ways for UMM to realize its main mission, namely From Muhammadiyah for the Nation. It's not just limited to religion," he said.

He hoped that later there would be other UMM activities that could entertain the elderly. Even with educational activities for children at RAAL Griya Asih. Finally, Fauzan also hopes that the grandmothers who live there can continue to be happy and healthy. According to him, if they are sad, the disease will be easy to infect.

Meanwhile, Natalie Paula Poluan, Head of Griya Asih, was grateful for UMM's contribution to Griya Asih and the Chancellor's willingness to attend. According to him, this is an excellent gift for the residents of the foster home. "We also really appreciate the contribution of UMM students who help take care of our grandparents and study with our children," she said.

Natalie, her nickname, explained that the students also had time to build a chicken coop that could be used in the future. In addition, the use of land to grow vegetables and fruit on the vacant land that Griya Asih owns. "We are very grateful because UMM helps, regardless of class and religion. Still willing to pay attention and care for others even though they have differences. Hopefully, these activities don't stop here but can be continued in the form of other programs," Natalie explained.

Responding to this, Prof. Dr. Yus Mochamad Cholily, M.Si, as the Director of the Directorate of Research and Community Service (DPPM) UMM, said that this program was designed sustainably. There are more than 50 students who apply to serve in this program. Interestingly, they chose themselves to help RAAL Griya Asih, which is located in Lawang.

"DPPM did make a special scheme for this program. We send only a handful of students at a time, but it will continue. Once again, we would like to thank Ms. Natalie for being allowed to attend and be a place for students to see the realities of life. We also hope that the synergy between the White Campus and RAAL Griya Asih can be maintained and continued," he concluded. (wil)