Mataram, August 28, 2025 – The State Hindu Institute (IAHN) Gde Pudja Mataram has taken part in the dana punia program facilitated by the Badan Dana Dharma Nasional (BDDN) of West Nusa Tenggara Province. The initiative was carried out in the spirit of unity and gotong royong (mutual cooperation), with the shared vision of building the “Gerbang Kemandirian Umat” or “Gateway to Community Self-Reliance.”
The collected funds are to be managed by BDDN and allocated to support six strategic pillars: community welfare; health assistance for pandita and pinandita (Hindu spiritual leaders); education and human resource development for Hindus; strengthening Hindu community organizations; economic empowerment programs; humanitarian and social aid; and long-term investment initiatives.
The fund handover was officially conducted at Pura Saraswati, IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram campus, in conjunction with the Upanayana ceremony, highlighting the sacred and communal spirit of the occasion.
Representing BDDN NTB at the event were Mr. I Ketut Sutarjana, serving as Treasurer II, and Mr. I Gede Oka Budiana, Secretary III. On behalf of BDDN, Mr. Sutarjana expressed his appreciation, stating, “We sincerely thank IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram for this meaningful contribution. This support is not only financial but also symbolic of the shared commitment to building the self-reliance of the Hindu community. We hope this collaboration can continue sustainably in the years to come.”
In response, Prof. Dr. Ir. I Wayan Wirata, A.Ma., S.E., M.Si., M.Pd., Rector of IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram, reaffirmed the institute’s dedication, saying, “We are honored to be part of this noble initiative. The values of solidarity and mutual cooperation embodied in the dana punia program are aligned with our academic mission and spiritual responsibility. IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram will continue to work hand in hand with BDDN and the wider community to support the welfare, education, and empowerment of our people.”
As a follow-up, IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram announced that the dana punia activity will be regularly held every semester and will involve the participation of all institutional leaders. This step reflects the institute’s long-term commitment to making social contributions a permanent part of its academic and spiritual journey.
The participation of IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram in the dana punia program is expected to inspire greater collaboration between academic institutions, religious organizations, and the wider community in supporting sustainable growth and shared prosperity.
by: DKS