Tolerance in Action: HKBP Batam Centre Distributes Sacrificial Animals to Three Mosques

HKBP Batam Centre reaffirms its commitment to maintaining interfaith harmony and tolerance through its diakonia program by distributing sacrificial animals to the local Muslim community.

This year’s Eid al-Adha saw the church donate three goats to three different locations across Batam City. The initiative serves as both a social outreach effort and a means to strengthen harmonious interreligious relations.

Reverend Marudut Simanjuntak of HKBP Batam Centre stated that the annual sacrifice distribution has become a routine event as an expression of love for all, regardless of religion or background.

“Through this activity, we aim to continue instilling values of togetherness, mutual respect, and social care within Batam City’s diverse community,” he said on Wednesday (27 May).

The donations were delivered to three sites: RW 04 Nurul Yaqin Mosque, RW 06 Al Hikmah Mosque in Taman Hang Tuah, and RW 11 Baitul Ummah Mosque in Oma Housing Estate, Baloi Permai Village, Batam Kota Subdistrict.

Accompanying Reverend Marudut Simanjuntak were the HKBP Batam Centre Diakonia Council, chaired by JP Simamora, along with the Community Affairs Section of RTH Panjaitan and the HKBP Batam Centre diakonia team.

Reverend Marudut Simanjuntak is known for his active involvement in interfaith activities in Batam. He believes that the spirit of brotherhood and tolerance must be nurtured to foster a harmonious and peaceful society.

Suhedi, a representative recipient from Al Hikmah Hang Tuah Mosque, expressed gratitude to the leadership and congregation of HKBP Batam Centre for their attention and care towards the local community.

“We thank the leadership and congregation of HKBP Batam Centre for the ongoing solidarity and concern shown to the community here,” he said.

Through this initiative, HKBP Batam Centre reaffirms the importance of tolerance, mutual assistance, and social care as integral aspects of community life in Batam. (H-2)