BY Benjamin ClarkNovember 27, 2024
2 weeks ago
BY 
 | November 27, 2024
2 weeks ago

Garbage Crisis Unaddressed Near Yogyakarta Religious Sites

In Yogyakarta, Indonesia, a critical waste management crisis looms as garbage remains uncollected near a church and a university for over two years, The Christian Post reported.

In the cultural heart of Java, the piles of uncollected garbage have become a common yet disturbing sight. Accumulating near the premises of St. Antonius Padua Catholic Church and Sanata Dharma Catholic University, the mounting waste raises significant health concerns for local communities. Both religious and academic institutions are affected, creating an environment that is less than conducive to community activities and learning.

Local Community Faces Health Hazards

Susi Sasmita, a church congregation member, expressed distress over the worsening situation. She reminisced how the garbage problem has been persistent since the 1980s, becoming particularly problematic during the rainy season. "The stench during the rainy season, when the garbage mixes with rainwater to become mud, is disturbing," Sasmita said, reflecting the frustrations of many in her community.

The impact of the garbage issue extends beyond just unpleasant odors. It affects daily operations such as parking, with waste obstructing a considerable stretch of road that churchgoers frequently use. "Churchgoers find it difficult to park their vehicles along this 75-80 meter stretch of road because of the garbage," Sasmita explained, highlighting the practical obstacles faced by the community.

Religious Leaders Advocate for Change

Rev. Andalas Mutiara, a priest and lecturer at Sanata Dharma Catholic University, has become a prominent voice in the fight against this ongoing neglect. On October 24, motivated by the escalating crisis, he staged a protest that captured widespread attention through a video circulating online. Rev. Mutiara emphasized the urgency of addressing the garbage problem, which he described as antithetical to the values held by the community. "We don’t want to normalize garbage, nor embrace a garbage culture," he declared.

Following the public outcry and the visibility garnered by Rev. Mutiara’s protest, governmental reaction was prompted. Hanif Faisol Nurofiq from the Indonesian Environmental Control Agency inspected on November 18. His visit resulted in the proposal of temporary measures such as establishing waste banks and implementing educational programs. "These measures are steps we're taking while waiting for a more permanent solution by the government," Nurofiq stated, outlining immediate actions to alleviate the problem.

Government Actions and Responses

One day after the inspection, a significant political development occurred. Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, the Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, reached out to Minister Hanif regarding the escalating waste management issue. This high-level engagement illustrates the severity of the situation and the urgent need for governmental intervention.

In a different context but related by date, a disturbance occurred at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church in Surabaya on November 20. M. Akhyar, Chief of Lakarsantri Police, clarified that the incident, which happened shortly before local elections, involved a woman with a mental disorder, confirming that it was unrelated to the garbage issue.

Broader Perspectives and Cultural Reflections

The challenges faced in Yogyakarta are not just local but also reflect broader concerns about environmental stewardship and community health in Indonesia. The Christian community, which makes up 11.43% of Indonesia's population, including 3.23% Evangelicals, commonly faces these types of infrastructural and social issues, accentuating the need for inclusive and effective governance.

Communities like those surrounding the St. Antonius Padua Church and Sanata Dharma University are calling for actionable solutions that will not only address current symptoms but also pave the way for sustainable environmental practices in Indonesia. It remains to be seen how quickly and effectively these measures can turn the tide on a problem decades in the making.

Written by: Benjamin Clark

NATIONAL NEWS

SEE ALL

Historic $323 Million Settlement Approved For New York Diocese Abuse Claims

A New York court has approved a $323 million settlement between the Diocese of Rockville Centre and survivors of sexual abuse, representing the largest compensation…
13 hours ago
 • By Benjamin Clark

Community Mourns As Revered Pastor Falls Through Ice

In a heartrending incident, retired pastor Greg Garmer tragically lost his life while ice skating in Minnesota. Greg Garmer, 78, was found deceased after he…
13 hours ago
 • By Benjamin Clark

Pope Francis Announces Jubilee For LGBTQ+ Catholics

Pope Francis has announced a special jubilee for LGBTQ+ Catholics, marking a historic first in the church's approach to inclusivity. According to Breitbart, this initiative…
13 hours ago
 • By Benjamin Clark

Ocasio-Cortez Seeks Key Oversight Committee Role

In a significant political move, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) has declared her candidacy for the top Democratic spot on the House Oversight Committee. AOC's aim…
18 hours ago
 • By Benjamin Clark

CNN's Jim Acosta Faces Backlash for Mocking Defense nominee's Mother

President-elect Donald Trump’s choice for defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, is embroiled in controversy amid allegations of misconduct and heavy drinking. Amidst growing intra-party criticisms and…
18 hours ago
 • By Benjamin Clark

DON'T WAIT.

We publish the objective news, period. If you want the facts, then sign up below and join our movement for objective news:

    LATEST NEWS

    Newsletter

    Get news from American Digest in your inbox.

      By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: American Digest, 3000 S. Hulen Street, Ste 124 #1064, Fort Worth, TX, 76109, US, http://americandigest.com. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact.
      Christian News Alerts is a conservative Christian publication. Share our articles to help spread the word.
      © 2024 - CHRISTIAN NEWS ALERTS - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
      magnifier