Mataram, Wednesday, 17 December 2025 — The Postgraduate Program of IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram carried out a humanitarian and eco-theological outreach through a visit to animal shelters located in the Gunung Pengsong area, Lombok. On this occasion, the delegation distributed humanitarian assistance in the form of freezers to three animal shelters in Lombok: Shelter Pengsong, Shelter Popi, and Shelter Lomdogs.
The activity was attended by the Director and Vice Director of the Postgraduate Program, the Head of the Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM), several faculty members, and a representative of Dhyan Foundation, India, Ms. Mahima Jaini. This visit marked a continuation of the International Collaborative Community Service Program between the Postgraduate Program of IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram and Dhyan Foundation, India, under the theme “Strengthening Eco-theological Awareness Regarding the Protection and Welfare of Sacrificial Animals for Hindu Religious Rituals.”
In his message, the Director of the Postgraduate Program, Prof. Dr. I Wayan Ardhi Wirawan, S.Pd., S.Ag., M.Si., emphasized that this activity reflects the institution’s commitment to integrating academic values, spirituality, and concrete social action.
“Eco-theology is not merely a discourse in classrooms; it must be manifested through real actions that show compassion and responsibility toward all living beings. Through this collaboration, we hope to foster ethical awareness and sustainable practices in the protection and welfare of animals, especially within the context of Hindu religious life,” he stated.
Ms. Mahima Jaini, representing Dhyan Foundation, expressed her appreciation for the strong commitment shown by IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram.
“This collaboration demonstrates how spiritual values can be translated into meaningful action. Dhyan Foundation is honored to work alongside IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram in promoting compassion, non-violence, and care for animals. We believe such initiatives will inspire broader communities, both locally and internationally,” she remarked.
Warm appreciation was also conveyed by the managers of the beneficiary shelters. The representative of Shelter Pengsong highlighted that the freezers would significantly support daily operations, particularly in preserving food supplies for rescued animals. Similarly, the managers of Shelter Popi and Shelter Lomdogs expressed gratitude, noting that the assistance would enhance the sustainability of animal care and strengthen their capacity to provide better welfare for abandoned and rescued animals.
This activity reaffirmed the role of higher education institutions as agents of transformation, bridging academic knowledge, religious values, and community empowerment. Through international collaboration and tangible humanitarian actions, the Postgraduate Program of IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram continues to contribute to the development of compassionate, ethical, and environmentally conscious societies. (DKS)