Indonesia, Jordan Strengthen Healthcare Aid for Palestinians

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian National Alms Agency (Baznas) is strengthening humanitarian cooperation with Jordan's King Hussein Cancer Foundation (KHCF) to expand healthcare support for Palestinians, while preparing longer-term education assistance for Palestinian students in Indonesia.

Baznas Distribution, Utilization, and Empowerment Chair Idy Muzayyad described KHCF as a trusted partner, citing its transparent management and reporting of aid for Palestinian communities.

"According to the fiqh principle al-muhafadhatu 'ala al-qadimi al-shalih wal akhdu bil jadidi al-aslah (maintaining good existing values and adopting better new ones), we will maintain this good relationship and improve it further," he said on Sunday, August 9, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

Idy emphasized that Baznas has committed more than IDR 1.7 billion in humanitarian funds for Palestinian health services.

Beyond medical assistance, Baznas is also preparing a long-term scholarship program for Palestinian university students in Indonesia, particularly in healthcare-related fields. "This is a long-term and sustainable aid program in the healthcare sector," Idy said.

Jordanian Ambassador to Indonesia Sudqi Al Omoush appreciated Baznas' support and encouraged further cooperation through sustainable waqf programs to assist Palestinian refugees and other areas affected by conflict.

Sudqi regretted that a large portion of global funding is currently being spent on armed conflicts and hoped it could instead be redirected toward humanitarian programs that support people's lives.

"So, we invite you to join us and increase support as we have always done, all for the good of life, not war," Sudqi said.

Meanwhile, KHCF Director Madelin Al Salah appreciated Baznas' continued support, including its latest allocation of more than IDR 3.5 billion to support cancer treatment for patients from Gaza in Jordan in 2026.

She said stronger humanitarian cooperation is urgently needed to meet the medical and logistical needs of Gaza patients amid declining international donations due to wars in the Gulf region.

"That is why we are now in a crisis and issuing an emergency appeal for patients currently living in Jordan. If we do not receive donations for them, we will not be able to continue supporting them or bring more patients from Gaza," Madelin said. ***