This Eid al-Adha, beyond the takbir echoing in the mosques and the joy of family gatherings, a deeper movement of compassion was unfolding, one that traveled from cities to mountains, from donors to the most hidden corners of Indonesia. Qurbani 2025 became a bridge not only between people and their Creator, but also between hearts across distance and circumstance.
Through the collective effort of Dompet Dhuafa, including its national headquarters and its branches, a remarkable 36,709 sacrificial animals were distributed throughout the country. From disaster-stricken zones to remote islands and underserved communities, this movement reached tens of thousands of families, proving that the essence of Qurbani is not simply about the ritual; it is a celebration of mercy, humanity, and hope.
A Measurable Impact, a Deep Spiritual Meaning
Among the nationwide effort, 2,180 families in nine provinces were directly reached through focused distributions, made possible by donors from Dompet Dhuafa USA alone. The impact on the ground was delivered in the form of:
- 6 cows and 1 share (1 share = 1/7 of a cow) distributed to 430 families
- 139 goats distributed to 1,750 families
These sacrificial animals were not simply delivered; they were brought with care to areas often left out of sight: the heartlands of Maluku, the mountainous regions of Nusa Tenggara Timur, and the quiet hamlets of East Java.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all donors of Dompet Dhuafa USA who entrusted their Qurbani to us. Your generosity not only brought nourishment to underserved communities but also reaffirmed our shared humanity and the enduring values of compassion in Islam.
Stories That Moved the Nation
1. Healing Beneath Mount Lewotobi
In East Flores, survivors of the 2023 eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki have spent the past two years displaced, living in shelters with limited access to nutrition. On June 9, 2025, a Qurbani distribution team arrived with fresh meat packages. One resident, Yoseph, held his package close to his chest and said:
“For two years we’ve sheltered far from home. This is the first time our kitchen welcomes the scent of meat again.”
This simple gesture, receiving a portion of Qurbani meat, marked a turning point. It reminded them that they were not forgotten.
2. Embracing the Faith in Timor
In the village of Oeolo, East Nusa Tenggara, many new Muslims live quietly as a minority, facing economic and social challenges. For years, access to halal meat was a rare occasion. But this Eid, something changed. Markus, a local convert, received his Qurbani portion and shared:
“We feel seen, like we belong to the ummah.”
For this small, humble community, the arrival of Qurbani meant more than food, it meant recognition, inclusion, and the warmth of being embraced by their wider Muslim family.
3. A Four-Day Journey to Solor Timur
In Solor Timur, a remote island accessible only by sea and land over several days, the distribution team brought dozens of Qurbani packages to 73 families. The journey was difficult, but the reception was unforgettable. An elder on the island said:
“It’s as if Allah answered our longing.”
As children laughed and mothers cooked together, the limestone hills of Solor echoed with gratitude. Each packet of meat was a symbol of belonging and remembrance.
4. Beyond Meat: Empowering Through Zona Madina
At Zona Madina, a community development center in Parung, Bogor, Qurbani distribution was integrated with ongoing empowerment programs. On June 7, 2025, 1,200 beneficiaries received meat alongside access to educational workshops and vocational support.
“It’s a twofold blessing, we eat today and carry hope for tomorrow,” shared one mother.
Here, Qurbani becomes not just about giving, but about planting seeds for sustainable growth and independence.
The Power of Qurbani: Why It Matters
- A Universal Language of Compassion: In areas where Muslims are a minority, Qurbani serves as a gesture of peace and solidarity, building bridges across faiths.
- Nutritional Relief for Vulnerable Regions: In refugee settlements and disaster-stricken zones, the arrival of Qurbani meat provided essential protein and relief.
- A Spark for Community Empowerment: When connected to education and training, as seen in Zona Madina, Qurbani contributes to long-term self-sufficiency.
- A Memory of Being Seen and Remembered: For many, receiving Qurbani is not just about meat, it’s a reminder that they are not alone, that someone, somewhere, cares.
A Voice from the Field
“We brought meat, but came home with hearts full of stories, a child in Solor saving meat for a sick neighbor, and mothers in the refugee camp cooking together while sharing stories. These are the miracles of Qurbani: it transforms the receiver and softens the heart of the giver.” Dompet Dhuafa Field Volunteer
Looking Ahead: Continuing the Legacy
This year’s Qurbani campaign highlighted the beautiful harmony of faith and action. As we look to the future, we carry the conviction that this work must continue and expand. Every Qurbani entrusted to Dompet Dhuafa means:
- Transparent distribution, traceable in real-time
- Focused delivery to the most deserving and remote communities
- Long-term benefits, embedded in empowerment programs
Qurbani 2025 was not only a ritual fulfilled, but it was also a movement of compassion that reached across islands, generations, and circumstances. Each cut of meat carried stories of resilience and renewal. Each donor became a participant in something far greater than themselves: the living mercy of Islam in action.
May next year bring even more hands to share, more hearts to connect, and more lives to be lifted.
