LABUHANBATU SELATAN | INDATANEWS.COM - The Government of Labuhanbatu Selatan Regency, in collaboration with the National Zakat Agency (BAZNAS) of Labuhanbatu Selatan Regency, has once again demonstrated its commitment to social responsibility. Through the "Jumat Berkah" (Blessed Friday) program, a total of 60 food packages were distributed to motorized rickshaw taxi drivers (Becak Bermotor/Betor) categorized as mustahik, or eligible recipients of zakat assistance.
The event was held on Friday, June 26, 2026, in the courtyard of the Labuhanbatu Selatan Regent's Office. A warm and communal atmosphere marked the distribution, which forms part of
BAZNAS Labuhanbatu Selatan's regular programs. The initiative not only provides social assistance but also highlights how zakat management can deliver tangible impact for vulnerable groups.
Social Support for Informal Workers
The local government and BAZNAS specifically selected
Betor drivers as beneficiaries due to their vulnerability within the informal sector. Their daily income fluctuates significantly depending on passenger demand, making financial stability difficult to maintain. The provision of basic food supplies is expected to help ease household economic burdens, at least in the short term.
Symbolic Handover by the Regent
Labuhanbatu Selatan Regent
Fery Sahputra Simatupang symbolically handed over the food packages to beneficiaries. Representatives from BAZNAS leadership also accompanied the distribution as a reflection of strong coordination between the regional government and the zakat institution.
The distribution was directly overseen by the Chairman of BAZNAS Labuhanbatu Selatan, M. Yusuf Hasibuan, together with his management team and field staff. The aid packages were subsequently distributed to Betor drivers in Kotapinang and surrounding areas.
Professional Zakat Management for Targeted Assistance
The "Jumat Berkah" program is part of BAZNAS Labuhanbatu Selatan's efforts to ensure that zakat funds from donors (muzakki) are properly delivered to rightful beneficiaries (mustahik). Through structured and targeted distribution, BAZNAS continues to strengthen public trust in professional zakat management.
COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE: Chairman of
BAZNAS Labuhanbatu Selatan, M. Yusuf Hasibuan, emphasizes that the "Jumat Berkah" program reflects the responsibility of zakat donors and contributes to social welfare. (PHOTO: Jhon Fitra Sagala)
Strengthening Social Solidarity Through Collaboration
In his remarks, Regent
Fery Sahputra Simatupang emphasized that the collaboration between the regional government and BAZNAS represents a concrete form of social responsibility toward the community.
"Today we are showing real care. A total of 60 food packages have been distributed, especially for Betor drivers. We hope the beneficiaries feel supported through zakat funds managed by BAZNAS," he said.
He further stressed the importance of zakat in building community welfare when managed in a professional and targeted manner. The regional government, he added, continues to encourage cooperation with BAZNAS to expand the reach of social assistance.
The Regent also highlighted that social programs not only address basic needs but also strengthen values of solidarity, mutual assistance, and community cohesion.
"Jumat Berkah" Program as Donor Trust (Amanah)
Chairman of BAZNAS Labuhanbatu Selatan, M. Yusuf Hasibuan, stated that the "Jumat Berkah" program is a routine initiative reflecting the trust (amanah) of zakat donors (muzakki) toward beneficiaries (mustahik).
"This activity is a concrete expression of BAZNAS's presence in easing community burdens while strengthening the spirit of zakat that fosters mutual care across Indonesia," he said.
Transparency and Sustainable Programs
Yusuf Hasibuan emphasized that
BAZNAS Labuhanbatu Selatan continuously develops community empowerment programs based on transparency, accountability, and professionalism. The initiative also aligns with the national campaign "Zakat Strengthens Indonesia."
In addition to consumptive assistance such as food packages, BAZNAS also develops programs in education, health, economic empowerment, and humanitarian aid.
He reaffirmed the commitment to sustaining the "Jumat Berkah" program so that more beneficiaries can receive zakat assistance each week. The ongoing support is expected to motivate recipients to improve their livelihoods and maintain optimism for the future.
He also expressed appreciation to the regional government for its continuous support of the zakat movement in the region known as "Bumi Santun Berkata Bijak Berkarya."
Community Hope and the Spirit of the Islamic New Year
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the assistance. Many Betor drivers said the food packages provided significant relief for their households, particularly amid rising living costs and unstable income.
As informal workers, their earnings depend heavily on daily passenger demand, which fluctuates due to weather conditions and market activity. The assistance therefore serves as an important support for their families.
The event proceeded in an orderly, safe, and warm atmosphere. It once again highlighted the professional zakat management of BAZNAS Labuhanbatu Selatan and its targeted distribution to eligible recipients.
The momentum of the Islamic New Year was also seen as a reminder to strengthen social care, raise awareness of zakat, and enhance community solidarity. The goal is to foster a more inclusive and equitable society in Labuhanbatu Selatan Regency.
In the spirit of solidarity, the culture of sharing is expected to continue growing, contributing to the realization of the vision "Labusel Kampung Kita" — a prosperous, religious, progressive, and blessed community.
With professional zakat management and strong support from both government and society, BAZNAS's humanitarian programs are expected to expand further and reach more people. The "Jumat Berkah" program stands as a concrete example of how zakat can create new hope for the grassroots and strengthen social cohesion.
(IDNC)REPORTER: Jhon Fitra Sagala | EDITOR: Fik Sagala