Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Sido Muncul and TOP Foundation Restore Smiles for Cleft Lip Patients in Bogor

| Source: DETIK Translated from Indonesian | Business
Sido Muncul and TOP Foundation Restore Smiles for Cleft Lip Patients in Bogor
Image: DETIK

Sido Muncul’s director Dr. (H.C.) Irwan Hidayat handed over a donation of Rp155.25 million, while the TOP Foundation contributed Rp200 million. The symbolic handover to Permata Jonggol Hospital director Dr. Sri Handayani, MARS, was witnessed by Jonggol sub-district head Andri Rahman.

This is not their first collaboration. Sido Muncul and Permata Jonggol Hospital previously worked together on stunting management (March 2025) and cataract surgeries. This cleft lip operation programme marks Jonggol as the third consecutive area of focus for the leading Indonesian herbal and pharmaceutical company.

Sido Muncul’s president director, Dr. (H.C.) Irwan Hidayat, explained that the initiative stems from deep empathy for parents of children with cleft lips, who face significant challenges.

“We understand that children with cleft lips struggle to eat, speak, and lack confidence in their appearance. Hence, today we are providing free cleft lip surgeries for 20 patients in Bogor,” Irwan said.

Irwan stressed that such social activities remain unaffected by economic pressures faced by many companies. He acknowledged Sido Muncul has implemented efficiencies elsewhere.

“We’ve cut costs in other areas, such as travel and advertising expenses, but social initiatives like this remain fully funded as they are part of our budget,” he explained.

During the event, Irwan shared his personal story of falling severely ill at age 21 with typhoid, malaria, tuberculosis, diabetes, and severe depression. This experience became a turning point that shaped his compassionate character.

“Had I not gone through that illness, Sido Muncul wouldn’t be where it is today. If something benefits others, nothing is lost—it brings both utility to others and inner peace,” he said.

He also praised the medical staff volunteering their services for the programme.

“I thank the surgeons for working free of charge. They are truly the most deserving of credit,” he added.

Irwan hopes the programme will inspire other companies.

“This donation is part of Sido Muncul’s consistent effort to contribute to society. We hope other companies follow suit, enabling more people to be helped,” he concluded.

TOP Foundation: From Tennis Court to Operating Table

Behind this initiative lies an intriguing story from Surabaya. The Tangan Orang Peduli (TOP) Foundation, a tennis enthusiasts’ community led by Nathalia Soetrisno, raised funds through the 2026 Tolak Angin TOP Tennis and Padel Tournament, channeling them to operations in Jonggol, Bogor.

“People usually see sports matches as mere competitions. But for us, every match, every sponsor, every participant can become a pathway to bringing new smiles and hope to many,” said TOP Foundation representative Mayasari.

Starting as a tennis community, TOP has built a movement connecting players, sponsors, communities, and the public to create positive change. As racket sports grow in Indonesia, particularly the rapid rise of padel in recent years, TOP has actively supported and developed the padel ecosystem. Founders and promoters of TOP now actively engage in padel communities, seeing its strong sense of camaraderie and potential as a vehicle for sharing with others.

Since its inception, TOP has run various social programmes, including clean water provision via Water of Life in needy villages, educational scholarships, renovation of orphanages and nursing homes, and now this cleft lip surgery collaboration.

“We believe genuine aid not only transforms lives but also brings new hope for the future,” she added.

This collaboration with Sido Muncul is TOP Foundation’s first, facilitated by Rheno Adrian Hidayat, a TOP Foundation member.

“We hope to emulate Sido Muncul’s consistency in giving and success, so the benefits can grow for more people,” Mayasari said.

“We hope such collaborations continue and more parties are inspired to spread kindness and tangible impact for society,” she added.

Cleft Lip Surgery Programme Runs Until October 2026

Meanwhile, Permata Jonggol Hospital director Dr. Sri Handayani, MARS, welcomed the initiative with gratitude, stressing it marks the beginning of a longer series of efforts.

“This charity event will run for five months, from May to October 2026. We aim to reach a broader community and assist more children through cleft lip surgeries during this period,” Dr. Sri explained.

To ensure patient safety, the hospital has strict screening procedures. For cleft lip cases, patients must be at least three months old and weigh over five kilograms. For cleft palate, the minimum age is one year with a weight of eight to nine kilograms.

“Children must also be in good health, free from fever, cough, cold, or pre-existing conditions. Only after passing the paediatric specialist screening can surgery proceed,” Dr. Sri clarified.

The medical team comprises plastic surgeons, paediatricians, and anaesthetists. She also confirmed registrations remain open for the public.

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