Back on their feet

Back on their feet

Bad memories of the horror of the ferocious tsunami that hit Aceh and North Sumatra in Dec. 26 last year may still haunt survivors. One year may not feel like enough to time to finish grieving for loved ones lost in the catastrophe, but it is time to rise from the ruins and endeavor on a new beginning.

Some survivors -- from toddlers to school-aged teenagers -- have found a second home at a pesantren (Muslim boarding school) after being orphaned by the tsunami.

They not only get a formal education, they are also learning to stand on their own feet and take care of themselves.

The pesantren, called Yayasan Dayah Daruzzahidin, is located in Lamceu, Kota Baru, Aceh Besar regency.

While it may not seem like an idyllic life, the opportunity to survive the apocalyptic disaster and have a decent place to live, to study, to play and to pray and to start anew is a blessing for the children.

Text and photos by R. Berto Wedhatama

Photo A : Aceh

The santri (pesantren students) study in their classroom. Besides Islamic teachings, the students also take the same subjects as those offered at any public school.

Photo B : Aceh

Living in a pesantren, a santri learns to take care of himself, including doing his laundry.

Photo C : Aceh

A santri brushes his teeth outside the bathroom, giving others the chance to bathe indoors.

Photo D :Aceh

Two santri push wheelbarrows to assist adults constructing a meunasah (small mosque).

Photo E : Aceh

Santri put finishing touches on a reconstructed mosque.

Photo F : Aceh

Boys hang out in the dormitory, where they not only sleep but also do their homework.