Andre Rosiade Sends Waste Cart Puller from Parupuk Tabing on Umrah

For years, Yarmayati, or as she is affectionately known, Buk Ema, could only stand on the roadside of Parupuk Tabing Ward. Behind the pedal cart that carries waste and serves as her livelihood, she never failed to wave her hand every time a Hajj pilgrims’ bus passed by heading to or from the Tabing Hajj Hostel.

A video of Buk Ema’s sincere actions went viral on social media, sparking public sympathy that reached Andre’s ears. It did not take long for him to visit Buk Ema’s home to present her with an Umrah gift.

“Alhamdulillah, today we are realising Buk Ema’s dream of going on Umrah. Many people were touched by the video of her and asked us to help. She is an extraordinary resilient mother,” said Andre in a written statement on Friday (8/5/2026).

He conveyed this during a visit shortly after landing at Minangkabau International Airport (BIM) this morning.

This Deputy Chairman of the Gerindra Faction in the Indonesian House of Representatives admitted to being moved by Buk Ema’s sincerity. Amid the sweat of earning a living as an independent cleaner, Buk Ema still found time to pray for others.

According to Andre, the action carries a profound moral message for everyone. “This is the form of our presence, in line with the mandate of Gerindra General Chairman, Mr Prabowo Subianto, that Gerindra cadres must always be present and provide real benefits in the midst of society,” emphasised the Chairman of the Minang Family Association (IKM).

Andre’s concern did not stop at the Umrah travel ticket. He also handed over a new pedal cart to replace Buk Ema’s old, worn-out one that often broke down.

In addition, aid packages of basic necessities, cash capital of Rp1 million, and health assurance through BPJS Kesehatan (with premiums covered for one year) were also provided.

“She no longer needs to just watch and pray for others from the roadside; now it is her turn to set foot in the Holy Land. We provide a new cart so she can more easily earn a living, and health assurance so she can be at peace,” added Andre.

Meanwhile, RT Chairman Razali expressed delight at hearing that his resident was assisted by Andre. He felt Buk Ema was very deserving of the aid.

“If Buk Ema’s cart is known for being diligent, even in the rain she still goes out pedalling to residents’ homes. Thank you, Mr Andre,” he said.

Tears of Joy from the Waste Cart Puller

A touching atmosphere was evident when the aid was handed over to Buk Ema at her residence. She could not hold back her tears, feeling that her dream of going to the Holy Land had finally come true. All this time, she had only been able to harbour her longing for the Baitullah while continuing to work transporting residents’ waste.

“Every time a Hajj vehicle passes by, I always wave and pray for their safety. In my heart, I also whisper, ‘O Allah, when will it be my turn to go to Mecca?’. Turns out Allah answered it today,” said Buk Ema.

Buk Ema’s resilience was formed from a long and winding life journey. Since childhood, she had lost both parents and was then raised by her uncle, whom she called Abah.

To make ends meet, Buk Ema once worked at the Asia Biskuit Tabing factory, from packing cakes to becoming a cleaner. For her, any job would be done as long as it was halal.

Entering old age, she chose the profession of transporting residents’ waste. In a month, she claims to earn around Rp300,000.

However, earlier this year was a difficult time for her. She felt worried when LPS officers started collecting waste in the area.

Not giving up to the situation, Buk Ema dared to ask homeowners to still be allowed to take their waste. Fortunately, the sympathetic residents who appreciated her honesty continued to choose Buk Ema’s services.

“Alhamdulillah, even though I work dirty collecting waste, I have no illnesses that require hospitalisation. I am grateful that in old age I am still healthy and strong. Hopefully I remain healthy,” said Buk Ema.

Now, Buk Ema is preparing to embark on the journey she has long dreamed of. Soon, the hands that usually hold the cart’s handle will prostrate before the Ka’bah, expressing gratitude for the miracle that came in her old age.