Many Families Delay Child Circumcision Due to Cost

The collaboration between the Indonesian Youth National Committee (DPP KNPI) and the Alumni Association of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Law, State University of Jakarta (IKA FISH UNJ) provided free circumcision for 17 children aged 4 to 12 in Sukajadi Village, Bekasi. The event, held on Saturday, was designed to broaden access to healthcare and strengthen community cooperation by involving youth organisations, university alumni, health workers, and the village administration. Dr. Fachrurozy Basalamah, Head of the Health Division at DPP KNPI, stated that the mass circumcision was not merely a charitable service but a long-term investment in improving children’s health quality. He noted that circumcision offers proven medical benefits, including maintaining reproductive organ hygiene, reducing infection risks, and fostering clean living habits from an early age. Dr. Basalamah emphasised that many families postpone circumcision due to financial constraints and limited access to services, a situation that requires a social movement involving various community elements. He stressed that youth organisations must deliver tangible benefits, particularly for those in need, as such social awareness forms the foundation for building a healthy and high-quality population. Dr. Rasminto, Chairman of IKA FISH UNJ, described the activity as a concrete implementation of the Tri Dharma of Higher Education, specifically community service. He argued that service must translate into actions that address real community needs, with alumni acting as part of the solution to social problems, including in the health sector. He added that synergy between alumni, community and youth organisations, village government, and health workers demonstrates how social capital can be optimised for broader benefit. Sukajadi Village Secretary Acep Sunasep expressed gratitude for the programme, noting it greatly assisted families with economic limitations. He reported that the event proceeded smoothly and that the children received good healthcare, expressing hope that similar social activities would continue to benefit more residents.