In the eastern corner of Flores Island, there is a small town called Larantuka, known as the Vatican City of Indonesia. Despite its rich Catholic rituals and status as a tourist magnet, Larantuka faces serious challenges in healthcare access. Here, our hero, Mansetus Kalimantan Balawala, emerges as a savior for midwives and expectant mothers in Kota Sau, Sarotari Village.
An Inspiring Early Story
Mansetus, a 48-year-old man who has long settled in Larantuka, was moved to take action when he witnessed many mothers and babies losing their lives due to delayed medical care. In 2002, he established the Health Foundation for All (YKS) in his home, gathering young people to help transport midwives and paramedics to remote areas. However, he realized that merely gathering support was not enough. He needed vehicles that could navigate the difficult terrain.
Motorcycles: The Key to Rescue
Mansetus did not just think, but also acted. He purchased 13 trail motorcycles for the midwives, significantly reducing the travel time in providing medical care. “Their smiles are our happiness,” Mansetus stated, emphasizing the critical role of midwives in saving lives.
With no formal background in healthcare, his desire to help stemmed from discussions with Health Officers in July 2002. In that Focus Group Discussion (FGD), he realized the importance of proper transportation for referring mothers and babies to healthcare centers.
Motorcycles for Village Midwives by Mansetus Kalimantan Balawala
This program is remarkable because it provides a practical solution to a serious issue: healthcare access for mothers and infants in remote areas. By providing motorcycles to village midwives in East Nusa Tenggara, Mansetus directly facilitates the midwives’ ability to reach families in hard-to-access locations. This is not just about transportation; it’s about saving lives and improving the quality of life in rural communities. Programs like this demonstrate that significant change can begin with simple solutions that address the real needs of the community.
Building a Healthier Future
With a vehicle maintenance system every 2000 kilometers and the use of motorcycles designed for extreme terrain, this program has had a positive impact on the community. Although the roads in Kota Sau remain in poor condition, the presence of these motorcycles brings new hope. However, challenges persist, including issues with litter, limited cellular networks, and uneven access to clean water, which still require attention in Larantuka.
Recognition and Hope
Mansetus’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. He received the SATU Indonesia Awards in 2010, An acknowledgment of his contributions to improving public health quality. The SATU Indonesia Awards is an Astra Appreciation for the nation’s children who have contributed to supporting the creation of a sustainable life through the fields of health, education, environment, entrepreneurship and technology. Mans has contributed greatly to reducing deaths by speeding up health workers in helping victims. This serves as a reminder that great change can begin with small actions filled with love and care.
