West Sumatra Governor's Sahur Visit Brings Hope to Ises Family in Payakumbuh
In the early morning hours of 26 February in Ikua Koto Dibalai district, North Payakumbuh subdistrict, West Sumatra, the air was still cold when residents prepared for sahur (pre-dawn meal). At precisely 3:55 AM, a knock sounded on a small wooden house—not from a neighbour, but from Governor Mahyeldi Ansharullah himself.
The modest 4 by 7-metre dwelling was home to Trisesti Novia, known as Ises (37), her husband Surya Adi Wibowo (38), and their three daughters: Sovia, Bunga, and Citra. The condition of their home was concerning. The wooden walls had aged considerably, while the upper floor made of wooden boards had deteriorated, with holes and sagging sections that posed a safety hazard, particularly for the children.
Daily, Ises and her husband took on odd jobs to support their family. “If someone needs help cleaning their house, we’re willing, sir. My husband also helps people—sometimes at a counter, sometimes assisting as a labourer, even though he’s not a professional,” Ises said quietly.
Given the family’s very modest home and pre-prosperous economic status, they were selected to receive assistance from the West Sumatra Baznas housing rehabilitation programme for unfit dwellings.
“The upper floor is extremely dangerous,” the governor stated at the location. “According to the Baznas chairman, this is the case, so we will help ensure it is repaired promptly and the Ises family can live in a more adequate home.”
The Baznas provided Rp25 million for home rehabilitation, while Bank Nagari contributed Rp2.5 million, accompanied by Ramadan food packages and support from high school principals in Payakumbuh.
“This is a Ramadan blessing. We have come with God’s permission. In faith, we are taught to help one another and lighten the burden of our brothers and sisters,” the governor said.
Upon hearing the news, Ises could not hold back tears. She expressed gratitude to the governor, Baznas, and Bank Nagari.
“Alhamdulillah, sir… it feels like receiving aid as large as a mountain. Our house has holes where you can see the roof. Thank you very much—this is truly a blessing for us,” she said emotionally.
The acting subdistrict head, Ronal, confirmed that the Ises family was indeed deserving of assistance. The dilapidated condition of their home meant it was unsafe for habitation.
“With three daughters, it is certainly unsafe to live in a house with an upper floor that has rotted and has holes. We are grateful for the West Sumatra provincial government’s attention,” he said.
After delivering the assistance, Governor Mahyeldi proceeded to perform congregational Subuh (dawn) prayers at Ansharullah Mosque. On that occasion, he also presented Rp25 million and Quranic texts to the mosque’s management.
That early morning bore witness to how, in the holy month of Ramadan, a simple knock on a door can bring great hope—demonstrating that government is present, listening, and acting for its people.