By Rendy | Project Admin
On February 16, 2026, the National Zakat Agency of Indonesia (BAZNAS RI) distributed 100 cows to communities across Aceh Province to support the Meugang tradition ahead of Ramadan 1447 H. The program was designed to assist vulnerable families and disaster affected households so they could continue observing Meugang, a long standing Acehnese tradition in which families cook and share beef dishes before the holy month of Ramadan. The initiative particularly targeted communities impacted by recent flooding and hydrometeorological disasters that disrupted livelihoods and reduced household income in several areas of Aceh.
BAZNAS allocated the 100 cows across eight regencies and municipalities in Aceh, with the largest distribution directed to Aceh Tamiang Regency. The selection of beneficiary areas was based on field assessments and coordination with local governments and community leaders to ensure accurate targeting and fair distribution. Each cow weighed approximately 240 to 250 kilograms and was processed collectively so the meat could be distributed proportionally to eligible households. This mechanism ensured that families, especially those facing economic hardship after the floods, were able to receive fresh beef in time for the Meugang celebration.
The symbolic handover ceremony took place at Masjid Nurhasanah in Kebun Tanah Terban Village, Karang Baru District, Aceh Tamiang. The event was attended by local officials, community leaders, and BAZNAS representatives. During the event, local authorities expressed appreciation for the support, noting that many residents are still in the recovery phase after disaster impacts that damaged homes, infrastructure, and sources of income. The assistance not only eased the financial burden of purchasing meat, which traditionally increases in price before Ramadan, but also restored community enthusiasm in welcoming the holy month.
BAZNAS emphasized that Meugang carries deep social and spiritual significance for the people of Aceh. Beyond food consumption, the tradition strengthens family bonds, promotes solidarity among neighbors, and reinforces shared cultural identity. By supporting this tradition, BAZNAS aimed to address both material needs and psychosocial recovery, recognizing that cultural continuity plays an important role in rebuilding resilience after disaster. The program also complemented BAZNAS’ broader emergency response efforts in Aceh, including logistics distribution, public kitchens, and other humanitarian assistance provided during and after the flood response period.
According to BAZNAS representatives, the initiative reflects the trust of zakat donors and demonstrates how zakat funds can be utilized not only for immediate relief but also to preserve local traditions that foster unity and dignity. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that assistance distribution remains transparent, Sharia compliant, and community centered.
Looking ahead, BAZNAS plans to continue integrating cultural approaches into its disaster recovery programs in Aceh and other regions. Future efforts will focus on strengthening community resilience through sustainable recovery initiatives, continued humanitarian assistance for vulnerable groups, and collaborative programs with local stakeholders. By maintaining support for both material recovery and cultural traditions such as Meugang, BAZNAS seeks to ensure that communities can rebuild not only their livelihoods but also their social cohesion and spiritual well being in the long term.
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By Rendy | Project Admin
By Rendy | Project Admin
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