The Women’s Union of North Coast (Serumpun) Sambas celebrated its 16th anniversary with a series of social and health-focused activities held in Penakalan Village, Sejangkung District, Sambas Regency, on Sunday, May 25.
The celebration carried the theme:“The Role of Women in Creating a Healthy and Resilient Generation.”
Health, Togetherness, and Empowerment
The event began with a mass exercise session joined by local residents, followed by free health checkups for blood pressure and blood sugar, facilitated by the Sejangkung Community Health Center and village midwives. The organizing committee also distributed free medicines and collected donations for Serumpun members currently undergoing medical treatment.
In her opening remarks, Budiana, Chairperson of Serumpun Sambas, emphasized the vital role of women in maintaining family nutrition and nurturing a healthy generation.
“As women, we must ensure nutritious food for our children—the next generation.
Healthy and intelligent children are the foundation for a Golden Indonesia,”
she said passionately.
She added that while Serumpun continues to receive facilitation from Gemawan Association, the group aims to become increasingly independent.
“Women in agriculture also understand the importance of health, including choosing pesticide-free vegetables,”
Budiana noted.
Reflections on a 16-Year Journey
The celebration was also attended by Uray Endang, a Board Member of Gemawan, the founding organization that initiated Serumpun’s formation in 2009.
In her speech, she reflected on the milestone:
“Sixteen years marks organizational maturity.
Serumpun needs to strengthen its identity—with a clear motto or tagline that people can recognize.
We must continue walking together despite the challenges ahead,”
she said.
The highlight of the event was the symbolic cutting of the “tumpeng” rice cone by the Chairperson, who then presented portions to representatives from Gemawan and Serumpun members. The event closed with a joyful group photo session, capturing the spirit of unity and gratitude.
Acts of Solidarity and Compassion
Beyond the health activities, Serumpun’s 16th anniversary also became a moment of solidarity among its members.
Dahlia, a representative from Setalik Village, invited participants to donate for Karmila, a Serumpun member currently undergoing breast cancer surgery at Soedarso Regional Hospital, Pontianak.
The fundraising was coordinated by Siti Rahmawati, Gemawan’s Women Division facilitator.
“No matter how small, every contribution matters.
May this act of kindness become a continuous blessing for all of us,”
she said as she handed over the collected donations to Dahlia for delivery to Karmila’s family.
The organizing committee chair, Pariha from Penakalan Village, expressed her gratitude for the success of the event:
“Though simple, this celebration was meaningful and full of enthusiasm.
Thank you to everyone who contributed.
We hope next year’s 17th anniversary will be even more vibrant and well-prepared,”
she concluded.
Writer: Siti Rahmawati, Gemawan Activist