BSMI Celebrates 24 Years of Humanitarian Service in Indonesia and Abroad
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Bulan Sabit Merah Indonesia (BSMI) celebrated its 24th anniversary, reflecting on its journey as an independent humanitarian organization.
- Since its founding in 2002, BSMI has grown with thousands of volunteers and a network across Indonesia, responding to numerous domestic and international humanitarian crises.
- The organization reaffirmed its commitment to serving humanity without discrimination and its ongoing support for the Palestinian people.
Bulan Sabit Merah Indonesia (BSMI), or the Indonesian Red Crescent, marked its 24th anniversary, celebrating its growth from a humble beginning in 2002 into a significant humanitarian organization.
Founded by a group of volunteers with a shared belief in helping others, BSMI has operated independently, professionally, and without political affiliation. Its core mission is to serve humanity without distinguishing between ethnicity, religion, race, or social background. Over the past 24 years, the organization has expanded its reach, establishing a network across various provinces, regencies, and cities in Indonesia, thanks to the dedication of thousands of administrators, members, and volunteers.
BSMI's volunteers have consistently been present during numerous humanitarian events across Indonesia. Their response efforts have included major disasters such as the Aceh Tsunami, earthquakes in Yogyakarta, Padang, Lombok, Palu, Donggala, Alor, and Nabire, as well as floods in Jakarta and Sumatra, volcanic eruptions, and other crises. Internationally, BSMI has extended its aid to victims of the Nepal earthquake, Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, the Myanmar earthquake, and communities affected by conflicts in Syria, Lebanon, Egypt, and Palestine.
The organization reiterated its unwavering commitment to the Palestinian people, viewing support for them as part of a universal humanitarian call. BSMI believes it is a moral obligation to show solidarity and care when the right to life, health, and human dignity is violated. The anniversary serves as a moment to strengthen the organization, advance its volunteers, and continue spreading benefits both within Indonesia and globally.
Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.