The Coronavirus Pandemic continues to spread massively in Indonesia. In addition to health issues, economic and social conditions are also affected by the virus. Several cities in the country seem deserted because many shops were closed and restrictions on mass gatherings were implemented. This makes it difficult for some parties to meet basic needs. To that end, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY) distributed 300 food packages and hand sanitisers to communities affected by the Coronavirus pandemic around the UMY Campus, on Wednesday (1/4).

The Head of UMY’s Research, Publication and Community Service (LP3M) Institute Dr. Ir. Gatot Supangkat, MP explained that this problem has progressed to various sectors. Health, social and economic matters need to be dealt with quickly and appropriately.

“Common problems that are often found in the surrounding community concern their education, health, and economic condition. Economic problems often result in accompanying education and health problems, this is true especially for the people who are less fortunate in accessibility, have no fixed income, or are unable to sustain their living needs, “Gatot said when contacted by the UMY Office of Public Relations and Protocol (BHP) Wednesday(1/4).

Gatot also added that the COVID-19 pandemic could impacted their economy. This is what needs serious attention, because it does not rule out the possibility of disrupting social, cultural and political stability. Even worse, it can threaten the ideology of the nation and state.

“It’s time that we unite to deal with and manage the problems we face today by revitalizing culture,” added Gatot.

The UMY-provided aid package includes 5 kilograms of rice, 1 kilogram of sugar, 1 kilogram of cooking oil and hand sanitizer. The program also invited a number of parties to cooperate in the process such as lecturers, members of the Muhammadiyah Youth Organization, local Muhammadiyah Sub-Branch Leadership, and mosque caretakers in the UMY area.

Elsewhere, Chairman of the UMY COVID-19 Mitigation Task Force Team Dr. Sukamta, M.T., IPM highly appreciated the swift action taken by UMY’s LP3M. He also said that the benefits of UMY’s presence must be felt, especially by the community around the campus.

“This activity is UMY’s effort to realize the Muhammadiyah mission which has been exemplified by its founder KH Ahmad Dahlan. The existence of every Muhammadiyah member must benefit the people around him. Because the best people are those who benefit the environment, “said the Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs.