UIN Ar-Raniry Aceh Distributes 1,600 Meugang Tradition Packages from UAE Government Aid

Banda Aceh (ANTARA) — The State Islamic University (UIN) Ar-Raniry in Banda Aceh has distributed 1,600 packages of meat in line with the meugang tradition and 400 packages of basic necessities ahead of Ramadan 1447 Hijriah, funded by the United Arab Emirates government, for disadvantaged residents living near the campus.

“This is the third year we have received Ramadan assistance from the UAE government. We are deeply grateful for the concern and support provided,” said UIN Ar-Raniry Rector Prof Mujiburrahman in Banda Aceh on Tuesday.

The aid originated from a gift by the UAE government through the Zayed for Good Foundation, with the cooperation of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Solo.

Prof Mujiburrahman expressed his appreciation and gratitude for the UAE government’s support. The assistance serves as a symbol of Islamic brotherhood across national borders in welcoming the holy month.

“This aid is not only of material value but also reflects togetherness and solidarity among Muslims. May it bring blessings for us all,” he said.

In addition to the 1,600 meugang meat packages — sourced from 18 slaughtered cattle — and basic necessities, the campus has also prepared 2,000 iftar packages to be distributed daily within the campus grounds.

“Furthermore, 1,000 packages will be distributed at the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque in Banda Aceh and 500 packages for Dayah Mahyal Ulum Sibreh over three days of Ramadan,” said Prof Mujiburrahman.

Meanwhile, the Coordinator of the Centre for Spirituality and Religious Moderation at UIN Ar-Raniry, Dr Muqni Affan, said the aid was distributed to orphans and the destitute in five gampong (villages) surrounding the campus, namely Rukoh, Blang Krueng, Tanjung Selamat, Barabung, and Limpok.

The assistance also targeted cleaning staff, security officers, drivers, mosque administrators, students, as well as teaching and non-teaching personnel within the university.

During this year’s Ramadan, UIN Ar-Raniry is also holding a communal iftar programme centred at the campus auditorium for the entire month.

“Similar activities will also take place over three days at the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque and three days at Dayah Mahyal Ulum Sibreh,” said Dr Muqni Affan.