TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Relatives of the late Akidi Tio, a philanthropist from Aceh, on Monday handed over a Rp2 trillion (US$138.1billion in current exchange) to the South Sumatra province’s Covid-19 pandemic relief efforts.

Citing Antaranews, South Sumatra governor Herman Deru, in representing the province’s residents, conveyed his utmost appreciation for the late Akidi Tio during the symbolic handover at the South Sumatra police headquarters on July 26.

“We are proud to accept this from the family members, considering Rp2 trillion is such a huge amount. This is not an insignificant amount,” said the governor.

The handing over was witnessed by the police chief inspector general Eko Indra Heri, head of the province’s health agency Lesty Nuraini, and military commander Brig. General Jauhari Agus Suraji along with public figures.

The late Akidi Tio during his lifetime was a successful businessman from the City of Langsa, East Aceh, in the field of construction. According to Hardi Darmawan, the Tio family’s personal doctor, Akidi Tio was known as a philanthropist and helped impoverished people in numerous regions.

Governor Herman Deru said he hopes this act of generosity will motivate the South Sumatra people to work hand-in-hand in tackling the Covid-19 pandemic. He also assures that the money will be distributed to fund regional programs to battle the spread of coronavirus, from food logistics, medicinal supplies, up to health protocol public facilities.

ANTARA