Young People of Various Faiths Distribute 2,000 Free Iftar Packages in Bekasi
Hundreds of young people from various religious backgrounds held a social action titled “Distribution of 2,000 Free Iftar Packages” in front of Bekasi City Government Office on Monday, 16 March 2026. This collaborative initiative was launched by Gempar Indonesia (Indonesian Youth Reformers Generation) together with Christian youth communities, including SMG Movement, Pemuda PGPI, Tim Kabar Baik for Bekasi City, and the congregation of GBI Kerinduanku under the pastoral leadership of Pastor Dr Gideon Simanjuntak.
The activity, targeting motorcycle taxi drivers, pedestrians, and road users, was part of a larger campaign towards the Declaration of Bekasi as Indonesia’s Number One Tolerant City, scheduled for 9 May 2026.
The social initiative was attended directly by Bekasi Deputy Mayor Harris Bobihoe, who appreciated the young people’s concrete efforts in building positive narratives within the community, particularly as the event coincided with Bekasi City’s 29th anniversary and the holy month of Ramadan.
“Bekasi City Government welcomes this initiative, especially carried out by young people. This marks a historic moment in Bekasi City, demonstrating that religious harmony is built through concrete acts of compassion,” Harris said when greeting residents at the location.
Petrus Sihombing, Secretary General of Gempar Indonesia, stated that youth participation in inclusive actions such as this was crucial. According to him, building the nation’s character must begin at the regional level as the foundation for achieving national aspirations.
“This hope can be realised together by the youth generation. By building a tolerant Bekasi City, we are striving to achieve Golden Indonesia 2045. From Bekasi City towards Indonesia,” asserted Petrus.
Beyond interfaith community participation, the activity was also supported by the creative economy sector through contributions from several local micro, small and medium enterprises. Several brands such as Gococo, Sambal Bakar Indonesia, Raja Kopi, and Ayam Hantam provided their flagship products in the 2,000 food packages distributed.
This collaboration is expected to strengthen Bekasi’s position as an inclusive city, where every citizen can demonstrate compassion regardless of ethnic, racial, or religious background. This message of peace from the heart of Bekasi City serves as evidence that community and business synergy can create a supportive social environment during Ramadan. The activity was attended by 120 beneficiaries and was also attended by Acting Bekasi Regent Dr Asep Surya Atmaja, who is also a medical doctor by profession.