Your comments on the stampede in Pasuruan, East Java, that killed 21 people when thousands rushed to receive cash gifts from a local philanthropist.
How it happened was unclear. But one thing is for sure, there was lack of coordination between the donor and the authorities. It shows that Indonesia has a lot of poor people that need a helping hand.
We can prevent this from happening again by giving zakat (obligatory alms) through non-profit organizations.
RUDI SALIM
Jakarta
The host should coordinate with local police in order to prevent such an incident from happening again. I was very sorry to hear that happened.
SENO MUDATSIR
Jakarta
Indonesian poverty has raised its ugly head again. Short-term stimulus policy does not work.
To curb poverty, SBY should not hesitate in implementing an integrated and breakthrough policy.
ANDOKO DARTA
Jakarta
It saddens to see that in such an abundant green luscious country, there are people who were trampled to death just for US$3. If a philanthropist wants to donate money it should be done in an orderly manner.
I understand with so much hunger and poverty here, it is sometimes difficult to control crowds. But every problem has a solution and we must try to solve it.
ANIRA RAM
Jakarta
Poverty is a reflection of the failure of Muslims in understanding the obligation of zakat as annual charity activity. Zakat should be organized on a day-to-day basis like the government's tax office, but through baitul maal (Islamic financial institution) in each mosque. The poor should not have to wait all year to get help.
MUHAJID DONNY
Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara
This happened because the way the donor delivered the gift was not well-prepared. Those who wish to help the poor in the next Ramadan should learn from this incident.
M. RIDWAN S
Jakarta
This happened because the donation for the poor was not managed well. To prevent this from happening again, donors should distribute their zakat through Amil (persons tasked to collect and distribute zakat). Islam teaches us the way.
KHULDIN KUSAIRI
Metro, Lampung
If they want to give zakat to poor people, they don't need to invite them to their house. This is dangerous because the location is too small for thousands of people. It is not safe.
There is a better way to distribute their zakat. For example, the village head is authorized to organize zakat collection and distribution.
DULI
Depok, West Java
Poverty is the most urgent problem to be solved by the government and the House of Representatives. They should not waste time deliberating the porn bill.
NON. T.
Jakarta
