The 22nd TIMA Anniversary Celebration: Embracing Gratitude and Unity on the Path of Virtue

Journalist : Tami (TIMA Indonesia) , Photographer : Edy

The beating of the drums symbolizes the spirit of TIMA members in carrying out the Tzu Chi Health Mission.

The Tzu Chi International Medical Association (TIMA) Indonesia marks its 22nd anniversary this year. From its inception, TIMA members have been united in their unwavering commitment to practicing compassion and serving others by advancing the Tzu Chi Health Mission through healthcare outreach initiatives under the Tzu Chi Foundation Indonesia.

The 22nd Anniversary of TIMA Indonesia was celebrated with a distinct and vibrant atmosphere, setting it apart from previous years. The event brought together over 300 distinguished guests and marked the induction of 159 new TIMA members: 122 from Jakarta, 21 from Bandung, 2 from Medan, 2 from Singkawang, 4 from Surabaya, and 7 from Palembang. This joyful and meaningful occasion also embraced a hybrid format, allowing TIMA volunteers from Medan, Batam, and Pekanbaru to participate virtually. As part of the celebration, 27 new members were inaugurated in Medan, 11 in Pekanbaru, and 12 in Batam, further expanding the reach and impact of TIMA’s mission.

The Ondel-Ondel Nusantara dance was performed exceptionally well by the TIMA Jakarta members.

The choir performance of "Manusia Kuat” and “Sekitar Kita" inspired and motivated TIMA members to continue their mission of helping others.

The event commenced with the symbolic beating of drums, reflecting the enthusiasm of TIMA members in fulfilling their Health Mission. This was followed by a series of performances by TIMA Jakarta members, including the Ondel-Ondel Nusantara dance, the choir performance of "Manusia Kuat” and "Sekitar Kita", and the Shou Yu performance “Sang Pemberani.” All the performers were TIMA members, united in their commitment to deliver outstanding presentations. Despite their demanding professional commitments, they dedicated time to rehearse and ensure their performances were a success.

Another captivating segment of the event was the dramatization of the poem "Kami TIMA Indonesia", which was recited by Ns. Novi Kartikasari, S.Kep, a member of TIMA Indonesia who works at Tzu Chi Hospital.

“I got the request on Tuesday to write the poem, and honestly, I didn’t expect it nor had I considered writing one for TIMA’s anniversary. But I agreed to take it on. By Wednesday, I still hadn’t figured out what to write, but by Thursday morning, inspiration struck. I spent time researching TIMA’s history and visualizing myself as a TIMA member. From 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, I worked on the poem, and then recorded it to ensure it wasn’t too long. In the end, I managed to finish it,” Novi explained.

The musicalization of the poem "Kami TIMA Indonesia" was recited by Ns. Novi Kartikasari, S.Kep, a member of TIMA Indonesia who works daily at Tzu Chi Hospital.

WE, TIMA Indonesia

We are here because of a moment in time,

A history filled with meaning and emotion,

Turning vision into real action,

Carrying forth the health mission of Tzu Chi Indonesia.

In the beginning, our team was just a few,

But we were undaunted, determined to push through.

The path we walked was full of obstacles,

Yet we remained empowered and resolute,

Offering care with love in all we do.

We gather here with a single tongue,

The language of love for all, so strong.

Giving with wisdom, hearts aligned,

Turning pity into purpose refined,

Becoming vessels of kindness, our spirits bright.

We stand ever ready,

The first line in every storm that rages.

Healing beneath the shelter of tents,

Performing miracles with humble means,

From the depths of night to the rise of the dawn.

Do we feel humble in our plight?

No, for we are here to ease their pain.

Do we feel disheartened in our quest?

No, for our hearts find solace in their joy.

Give thanks to this body,

Forged by the trials it has endured.

Steadfast and nurtured, never forced,

These hands have touched countless lives,

These eyes have ignited many lights,

These feet have wandered to the farthest reaches of the land.

Thank you for turning anguish into bliss,

For changing tears into joyful song,

And for transforming sorrow into radiant cheer.

At twenty-two, we stand,

In the bloom of age, shaped by many trials.

Yet still, we strive,

Stronger than dreams,

Greater than time's endless flow.

May we remain ever true,

Walking hand in hand on a shared path.

We will stand together in every moment,

For we are the heart of TIMA Indonesia.

The 22nd TIMA anniversary celebration was attended by over 300 distinguished guests and the induction of 159 new TIMA members, making the event a truly vibrant and memorable occasion.

According to Novi, TIMA is a significant organization that goes beyond being a healthcare entity; it delivers health services with genuine care. The outreach programs are meticulously organized, reaching across the entire archipelago, truly embodying the eyes, feet, and hands of Master Cheng Yen. Novi shares that she has gained invaluable lessons from participating in TIMA’s outreach activities, where everything is carefully structured—from the process to patient care, as well as the harmonious collaboration among volunteers.

Despite navigating winding paths filled with pressure and challenges, the TIMA team remains passionate and committed to carrying out their mission, cultivating a field of blessings through the Tzu Chi Health Mission.

The ranks of TIMA Indonesia volunteers have grown longer with the induction of new members.

The event concluded with the Shou Yu performance, "Satu Keluarga," inviting all guests to join in the hand gestures together. Through this occasion, TIMA encouraged all new members to actively participate in the ongoing activities of TIMA Indonesia, uniting in the shared commitment to deliver the highest quality healthcare. The aim is to ensure that every patient feels comfortable and experiences the joy of healing and recovery.

Translator: Vissia (Tzu Chi School)