Enduring the Galodo Disaster, Kakek Tohar’s Effort to Protect His Family’s Ancestral Home

Although galodo debris floods have struck the home of Kakek Tohar, now 70 years old, five times in West Sumatra, he continues to stay. The house, which has sheltered three generations of his family, is cleaned repeatedly together with his relatives. They even worked together to close the broken back wall with sandbags filled from the galodo debris. For Kakek Tohar, the house is not only a place to live but also a witness to family history and a space where he has nurtured love and togetherness.

Next to his home, his younger brother’s house remains buried under hardened mud and soil. The debris has piled up to half the living room and nearly reaches the ceiling. Cleaning the house requires time, strength, and support. Every effort becomes part of his determination to preserve the family home so it remains safe and livable.

Whenever rain falls, fear returns. Yet Kakek Tohar remains grateful because all members of his family survived the disaster that struck Nagari Muaro Pingai. He continues to hold on to hope of living safely while gradually restoring the home that carries so many memories. Every drop of sweat and every effort becomes a prayer and an expression of love for his land and family.

Kakek Tohar’s story reflects the resilience of many residents affected by disasters in West Sumatra. They clean their surroundings, rebuild their homes, and continue their lives with the strength they have. In situations like this, solidarity helps make each step feel lighter.

Solidarity gives meaning to every journey. When many people move together, distances feel closer and burdens are shared. From this togetherness grows the strength to keep moving forward, supporting one another, and sustaining hope.

Through these collective efforts, Human Initiative supports affected communities through emergency response and recovery assistance based on needs in the field. Let us expand the collaboration for good through solusipeduli.org so that families like Kakek Tohar’s can continue their lives with greater safety and peace.

Name has been changed to protect the identity of the rights holder.