MAKASSAR, SOUTH SULAWESI — “Boycotting represents the minimal effort we can make in our struggle. It’s effective and significantly disrupts the economy,” stated Arif R. Haryono, Head of the Disaster Management Center (DMC) at Dompet Dhuafa, during the “Pray for Humanity Volume 4” event. This event was organized by the Makassar Volunteer Coalition for Palestine in collaboration with Dompet Dhuafa South Sulawesi, on Friday (2/2/2024).
“Enduring the hardships of boycotting is nothing compared to those in Gaza, who are currently surviving on wheat remnants meant for animal feed. Dompet Dhuafa’s research has recorded a decline in turnover for foreign franchises affiliated with Israel, alongside an increase in our local MSMEs,” Arif elaborated.
In a humanitarian dialogue session that evening, Arif also recounted his experiences escorting aid from Indonesian donors to Palestine via Egypt. In late 2023, Arif was appointed by Dompet Dhuafa as a member of the Humanitarian Team within the Indonesia Humanitarian Alliance (IHA).
Baca juga: Doa untuk Palestina, Wujud Solidaritas dan Kemanusiaan
Echoing Arif’s sentiments, cleric Koh Dennis Lim, who attended with his wife, Teh Yunda, emphasized the importance of showing care for Palestine.
“It’s our simple duty to spread the word, and not be afraid to voice out. If possible, it’s crucial to translate words into actions. The time is now to reinforce our efforts. Boycotting, donating aid, and praying are all commendable actions. Hats off to Ustaz Arif for his direct involvement there. This demonstrates that we should not underestimate our capabilities. Allah will not overlook our struggle,” Koh Dennis remarked.
“I was just banned live on Instagram and TikTok for discussing Palestine, hehe. It’s okay, all in the name of truth and humanity,” he added humorously.
Taking place at Karebosi Field, Makassar, “Pray for Humanity Volume 4” spanned from morning till evening. Initiated by the collaborative effort of KolaborAksi partners, including community groups, social institutions, preachers, humanitarian volunteers, students, and brands, the event featured a vast array of activities. These included a major tabligh, blood donations, health checks by LKC (Free Health Services) Dompet Dhuafa Makassar, storytelling for charity, qasidah, memorization contests, coloring competitions, and collective prayers for Palestine, alongside bazaar stalls.
Nurwana, the Acting Branch Manager of Dompet Dhuafa South Sulawesi, said in her speech, “This event is a manifestation of our love for Palestine. Though its urgency might seem diminished recently, the presence of everyone here today proves otherwise; the passion remains alive. Let this spirit continue to ignite our dedication to Palestine. The situation there should remind us to be grateful for our circumstances.”
The event concluded with Koh Dennis and Teh Yunda auctioning several items, with the proceeds going to Palestine, including an inspirational book by Koh Dennis. Alhamdulillah, the evening’s contributions exceeded IDR 50 million and were directly funneled through Dompet Dhuafa South Sulawesi. A significant portion of these donations came from Halifah Intania (29), of the Bareng Sister Fillah community.
“Struggle involves choosing sides. If boycotting brings us peace, we should engage in it. Many foreign franchises affiliated with Israel exploit Indonesian agricultural products, buying them cheaply to sell at a premium abroad, including back in Indonesia. Our farmers have immense local potential; exploiting them constitutes a form of international corporate crime. Through zakat, Dompet Dhuafa’s economic empowerment program aims to boost the prospects of our local farmers,” Arif concluded. (Dompet Dhuafa/Dhika Prabowo)