The alumni community of Universitas Gadjah Mada, organized under Kagama Gelanggang (Gadjah Mada Alumni Family – Gelanggang), distributed sacrificial animals to residents living around the slopes of Mount Merapi. A total of 23 goats were handed over to community representatives from four regencies: Magelang, Klaten, Sleman, and Boyolali.
The person in charge of Kagama Gelanggang, Rahman Hidajat, stated that the distribution of sacrificial animals has been ongoing since 2017 through the “Gelanggang Berqurban” program, serving as a bridge for maintaining ties between Kagama and Merapi slope communities.
“We have learned so much, knowledge, insights, and many other things, from the people there. So, on a human level, it’s only right that we build familial relations with the Merapi slope communities,” said Rahman at the GOR Pancasila UGM parking lot on Wednesday (Jun. 4).
Rahman, usually known as Cak Man, mentioned that, as in previous years, the animals would be distributed to hamlets located on the upper slopes of Merapi.
“In urban areas, it’s common to see large numbers of sacrificial animals slaughtered at each mosque. Meanwhile, in the upper parts of Merapi’s slopes, they may not experience that in the same way,” he added.
According to Cak Man, the animals were contributed by Kagama Gelanggang alumni, including Ganjar Pranowo, Professor Baequni (Chair of the UGM Board of Professors), and other Gelanggang alumni.
“Mr Ganjar and Professor Baequni also contributed,” he noted.
On the same occasion, a representative of the Merapi Slope community, Ranto, expressed gratitude for Kagama Gelanggang’s continued commitment to engaging with residents in the area. He said that such initiatives are a form of Kagama Gelanggang’s ongoing effort to uplift and inspire the communities living at the foot of Mount Merapi.
“We’re truly grateful that Kagama Gelanggang continues to stay in touch with those of us living on the slopes of Merapi. Hopefully, this program will remain beneficial and reach the communities who truly need it,” said Ranto.
The event proceeded with a symbolic handover of the sacrificial animals, represented by the Chair of Kagama Gelanggang, Putut Ariwibowo. In his remarks, he emphasized that the 23 animals were given with wholehearted sincerity and a genuine intention to serve.
“This distribution is part of Kagama Gelanggang’s responsibility to our brothers and sisters living on the Merapi slopes,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Ramadhan Zakian (34), an active member of the Merapi Slope community in Klaten, shared that he has been involved in the sacrificial animal distribution program since its inception. He expressed hope that the tradition of sharing would continue, as it has brought significant benefits to the residents.
“In some hamlets, sacrificial animals are not available at all, so this assistance brings genuine joy to those who wish to celebrate Eid al-Adha meaningfully. Before the animals are distributed, a survey is conducted to ensure they are sent to the areas most in need,” he explained.
Author: Lintang Andwyna
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Photographs: Kagama/Tom Blero