BOGOR - MNC Peduli, in collaboration with MNC Land and RS Islam Assyifa, held a free cataract screening and surgery program for underprivileged communities living around the Special Economic Zone (KEK) MNC Lido City in Bogor Regency, West Java. The initiative began with an initial screening process targeting 100 participants.

This initiative reflects MNC Group’s ongoing commitment to social care through MNC Peduli and was made possible with support from various stakeholders, including local residents.

"Alhamdulillah, today MNC Peduli and MNC Land continue our social, environmental, and public health programs for communities around KEK Lido," said Syaiful Ardiansyah, General Manager of Town Management at KEK MNC Lido City, on Thursday (April 17, 2025).

Syaiful explained that many rural residents suffer from vision impairment due to cataracts, mostly caused by prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and limited awareness of eye protection during outdoor work.

"More than 80 percent of visual impairments in Indonesia are caused by cataracts. This obviously affects people’s productivity. Through this program, we hope they can gain better access to eye check-ups and cataract surgery services," he added.

The initiative also offers a solution for those without BPJS (national health insurance) or access to healthcare facilities. Cataract surgeries for eligible participants will be facilitated at RS Islam Assyifa in Sukabumi.

"This type of program will continue. Our hope is that MNC Land and MNC Group can keep supporting the productivity of communities around us, because KEK Lido cannot progress alone. We aim to build meaningful synergy with the local population," he emphasized.

Dr. Riana Azmi, Sp.M, an ophthalmologist from RSIA Assyifa, explained that the focus of the event in Cigombong was on the initial screening phase.

"The aim of this activity is to combat blindness caused by cataracts. Patients diagnosed with cataracts during the screening will be referred for surgery at RS Islam Assyifa," said Dr. Riana. She also noted the strong enthusiasm shown by the community and emphasized the importance of raising awareness that cataract-related blindness is treatable.

Wawan, Secretary of Watesjaya Village, also expressed his appreciation.

"We extend our sincere thanks to MNC Peduli, MNC Land, and RS Assyifa Sukabumi. This activity has been very helpful, and our residents were clearly enthusiastic to take part," he said.

He hopes similar programs will continue to be held regularly to improve the well-being of communities near KEK Lido City.

Meanwhile, one of the participants, Pipin Farida (61), said she was truly helped by the free screening.

"I'm 61 now. I used to not need glasses, but lately my vision has become blurry. This screening really helped me understand the condition of my eyes," Pipin said.

She also expressed gratitude for not having to spend money or travel far for the check-up.

“Alhamdulillah, I’m really happy. Usually, going for a check-up requires time and money. But this was close, free, and very helpful. I really hope similar programs will continue, especially for seniors like me,” she concluded