Latest news with #MuhammadAqil
The Star
2 days ago
- Politics
- The Star
Indonesians celebrate 80th Independence Day with festivities nationwide
JAKARTA (Xinhua): Under bright sunlight on Sunday, streets across Indonesia were filled with people waving national flags or dressed in red and white, as the country celebrated its 80th Independence Day. In a neighborhood in eastern Jakarta, residents gathered in an open space for a flag-raising ceremony, followed by parades, music, food, and traditional games. Fransiska Sulistyo, a 30-year-old housewife, brought her eight-month-old son to the festival for the first time. "It's a happy day. I'm introducing my toddler to how we celebrate Independence Day, and I think he really enjoys the atmosphere," she said with a smile. Families spread out tents and picnic mats on the grass, savoring the holiday spirit. For many, the day carried deep meaning. "Indonesia, my country, is a blessing. It is important to preserve this homeland, protect it, protect its people and respect its existence," said Muhammad Aqil, a 58-year-old retired army soldier. "This is always a beautiful occasion, especially the march by the people to express their love for this country." In central Jakarta, helicopters carried massive red-and-white flags across the sky while combat aircraft performed formation flights, commemorating the nation's independence. The display passed over the Merdeka Palace, where President Prabowo Subianto's administration opened the gates to thousands of citizens for what was billed as the largest Independence Day celebration ever held at the palace. The ceremony drew thousands of guests, including high-ranking officials, former presidents Joko Widodo and Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, and foreign envoys, who applauded the aerial performances. Leading the national flag-raising ceremony for the first time since taking office last year, Prabowo wore a traditional white outfit paired with a songkok, a hat also common in Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei. Other officials and guests also embraced traditional attire for the occasion. This year's flag-raising team featured 76 students representing all 38 provinces. Among them, Bianca Alessia Lantang from Tomohon in North Sulawesi was selected to carry the national flag. After the ceremony, organizers offered street competitions, live entertainment, and free culinary treats from micro, small, and medium enterprises. The day was set to conclude with a fireworks display and the United Independence Carnival, showcasing decorated floats from government ministries and agencies. - Xinhua
Borneo Post
05-06-2025
- Health
- Borneo Post
‘I am brave': 5-year-old leukemia patient receives aid from Hope Place Kuching
Hope Place representative Mary Vun (right) delivers the aid to Lijawati and her children during the visit. KUCHING (June 6): Hope Place Kuching has extended aid to a five-year-old boy diagnosed with leukemia, providing essential items such as diapers, children's milk powder, school supplies, and toys. Muhammad Aqil Hazwan Khalid was diagnosed with Precursor B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia last September and was immediately hospitalised for a month. His plight came to the attention of Hope Place through his mother, Lijawati, 37, who shared that the family has been struggling financially, as her husband is the sole breadwinner. 'Muhammad Aqil lives in Kampung Semera, Asajaya with his parents and nine-year-old sister. Although he is now back home, he still looks like any active five-year-old boy,' said the non-governmental organisation (NGO) in a statement. However, Lijawati revealed that her son has a low immune system, falls sick easily, and bruises often. He began chemotherapy last year and was initially fed through a tube, but due to frequent discomfort and tugging, doctors have since switched to oral medication During a recent visit, Lijawati shared what Muhammad Aqil said to his doctors at the hospital: 'I am brave. I am not afraid of eating medicine or needles.' She added that her son always says he wants to be well and healthy again – words that brought tears to her eyes. 'Though he is still so young, he is very determined and full of courage,' said Hope Place. It is understood that Muhammad Aqil undergoes chemotherapy once every two weeks. During earlier intensive sessions, he had to endure painful procedures involving three needles injected near the lungs and heart area. 'Although this procedure is usually very painful, Lijawati said Muhammad Aqil never once cried or protested. He has bravely completed 13 chemotherapy sessions so far. 'At present, the treatment only requires injections in the arm,' the NGO said. His father, Khalid, 37, works as a daily-paid construction labourer. Despite having her hands full caring for the children, Lijawati also tries to earn extra income by selling homemade 'kuih', 'kuih sepit', and fried chicken in front of their house. 'My boy's courage inspires me to fight for a better future,' she said. Muhammad Aqil currently receives monthly financial assistance of RM300 from Sarawak Social Welfare Department, along with transport allowance from the Sarawak Children's Cancer Society for his hospital visits. Those wishing to donate may do so via Hope Place's Maybank account (511289001160) or visit its Facebook page for the S Pay Global QR code. For more information, the public can contact Hope Place by calling 082-505987 or 013-5672775. aid boy hope place kuching lead leukemia Muhammad Aqil Hazwan Khalid
