TIMES SINGAPORE, MAJALENGKA – PT Gistex Garmen Indonesia (PT GGI) has launched a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program to provide free cataract surgeries for 60 underprivileged residents in Majalengka, West Java. This initiative, a first for the company, was conducted in collaboration with Bandung Eye Center Hospital and Perdami Bandung. The surgeries took place at the Puskesmas in Kecamatan Ligung on Thursday (27/6/2024).

Johnny Schepper, Director of PT Gistex Garmen Indonesia, expressed his hopes that the free cataract surgeries would significantly benefit the Majalengka community, particularly in reducing blindness. "We hope that this support will have a positive impact on reducing blindness in Majalengka," Schepper said. He emphasized the company's commitment to contributing to the region's development in various sectors, including health, education, and social welfare.

Agus Susanto, Head of the Majalengka Health Department, thanked PT GGI for its collaboration. He highlighted the importance of such initiatives in addressing health issues in the region, noting that there are still many cataract cases in Majalengka. "There are currently 2,478 registered cataract cases in Majalengka, with only about 18 percent treated so far," Susanto said.

One of the beneficiaries, Isah (67), shared her gratitude for the surgery, which has helped her regain some vision and improve her daily life. "Thank you, PT Gistex Garmen Indonesia, for conducting this CSR program. It has been a great help," she said.

This program coincides with Majalengka's 534th anniversary and aims to restore vision and improve the quality of life for cataract patients. PT Gistex Garmen Indonesia plans to continue its CSR efforts in health and other sectors to support the development of Majalengka and its residents.

Johnny Schepper also highlighted that the CSR program aligns with PT GGI's broader mission of fostering community well-being through targeted social initiatives. The company plans to evaluate the impact of this program and explore opportunities for similar health interventions in the future.

"We believe in giving back to the community and enhancing the quality of life for those in need. This cataract surgery program is just one example of our commitment to making a tangible difference," he stated.

Additionally, Agus Susanto encouraged other companies in Majalengka to follow PT GGI's example by initiating or supporting social programs that address critical health issues. He expressed optimism that increased corporate involvement would significantly contribute to the overall health and well-being of the population.

"Health problems cannot be solved by the health sector alone. It requires the participation of all community components. We aim for a healthier nation by 2045, and such collaborative efforts are vital," Susanto added.

Furthermore, the partnership with Bandung Eye Center Hospital and Perdami Bandung has proven instrumental in the success of the program. Both organizations brought their expertise and resources to ensure the surgeries were performed to the highest standards.

The collaboration underscores the importance of multi-sectoral partnerships in addressing public health challenges. PT Gistex Garmen Indonesia is keen on maintaining and expanding such partnerships to maximize the reach and impact of its CSR initiatives. (*)