Jakarta — Volunteers from the Taiwan-based Buddhist humanitarian organization, Tzu Chi Charity Foundation, recently held a free dental clinic in Jakarta, providing essential oral care and health education to vulnerable community members.
On 12 July 2025, the Depo Jayakarta Recycling Station in Sawah Besar became a hub of hope and learning for local residents. According to Tzu Chi, 73 children, adults, and elderly residents received free dental treatment along with practical guidance on oral hygiene, empowering them to take control of their oral health.
Dr. Linda-Verniati Tjokrosuwirjo, an orthodontic specialist and member of the Tzu Chi International Medical Association (TIMA), emphasized the importance of brushing teeth after meals. “Many people brush their teeth simply because it’s part of their morning routine, not because they understand why it matters,” she said. “The goal is to remove food debris, so brushing after meals is important.”
Dr. Mery Merlinda, another TIMA member, highlighted the prevalence of tooth decay and loose teeth among the community. She noted that a lack of oral health education affects people across all social groups in Indonesia. “Some patients come here because they truly cannot afford treatment. Free care means a lot to them. For us, it’s a way to give back,” she explained.
The clinic left a lasting impression on its young participants. Fifth-grade student Zahra expressed joy after having a cavity filled. “From now on, I’ll brush my teeth more carefully,” she said. “I realized I’ve been brushing the wrong way. I should use a circular motion, not just brush randomly. I’ll follow Dr. Chou’s advice from now on.”
Adults also benefited. Linda Purwanti, 43, had two teeth extracted after discovering that untreated cavities had caused nerve damage. “This clinic is really helpful and should continue,” she said. “Many people ignore dental problems. Without events like this, they wouldn’t bother seeing a dentist.”
Founded in 1966 by Buddhist nun and Dharma teacher Master Cheng Yen, the Tzu Chi Foundation focuses on “putting compassion into action.” The UN-accredited NGO has approximately 10 million supporters and 432 offices in 51 countries, with ongoing initiatives in humanitarian aid, medical care, education, and environmental sustainability.
Master Cheng Yen is recognized as a global icon of socially engaged Buddhism. She believes that true compassion is not just feeling sympathy for others but actively working to relieve suffering. In Taiwan, she is regarded as one of the “Four Heavenly Kings” of Buddhism, alongside Master Sheng Yen, Master Hsing Yun, and Master Wei Chueh—founders of the four most influential Chinese Buddhist orders, collectively known as the “Four Great Mountains.”
Through initiatives like the Jakarta dental clinic, Tzu Chi continues to put compassion into action, demonstrating how practical aid and education can make a lasting difference in communities worldwide.
