Ciwaduk Subdistrict Initiates Corpse Washing Training to Improve Service Standards
The Ciwaduk Subdistrict government has initiated a Corpse Washing Training programme themed “Improving the Capacity of Corpse Washers to Realise a Champion Cilegon,” held at the Ciwaduk Subdistrict office on Tuesday. The programme aims to enhance the skills and competency of local corpse washers while aligning with the Cilegon City Government’s focus on providing support to religious social service providers.
The training, attended by 30 participants from the Ciwaduk area, received support from the Cilegon City National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas). The event was also attended by Cilegon Subdistrict Head Maman Herman, Deputy Chairman of Cilegon City Baznas Habibi Abfat, and various community leaders.
Ciwaduk Subdistrict Head Nurul Hadiyati stated that the training was an initiative to address the community’s need for competent and legally recognised corpse washers. “Currently, the number of trained and certified corpse washers is very limited. According to data, only 43 washers are registered and receiving an honorarium,” Nurul said. She noted that with 26 neighbourhood units, ideally each should have at least three trained washers, but current numbers only meet about 50 per cent of the requirement.
Cilegon Subdistrict Head Maman Herman expressed appreciation for the initiative, emphasising that handling the deceased is a critical communal obligation (fardhu kifayah) that often lacks sufficient attention. He expressed hope that the training would be conducted annually to increase the number of competent personnel.
Deputy Chairman of Cilegon City Baznas, Habibi Abfat, described the role of a corpse washer as a noble calling that requires dedication. He highlighted three key benefits of the training: ensuring the process is carried out with proper knowledge, standardising methods that currently vary based on individual experience, and providing legal recognition through certification, particularly for those receiving government support. He expressed hope that this initiative would serve as a model for other areas in Cilegon to improve social and religious services for the community.