Aceh – Indonesia, In a warm corner of Cafe J2R, Tanah Terban Village, Karang Baru District, Saturday (10/3/2026), the atmosphere seemed different from usual. Dozens of residents from various backgrounds sat in a circle in an initial meeting filled with camaraderie. Far from just a casual gathering, they were knitting together hopes and mutual readiness to establish the Indonesian Amateur Radio Organization (ORARI) Local Chapter for Aceh Tamiang.

Led by Ikhsan as the mandate holder, accompanied by Syaiful Alam and Nanang Surono, the meeting felt lively. Warm conversations flowed from table to table discussing one major mission: presenting a reliable communication network that breaks through geographical boundaries for the safety of the Aceh Tamiang community.

A Communication Bridge When Cellular Signals Go Down

For the Datok Penghulu (Village Heads) who often stand on the front lines during disasters, the biggest challenge in the field is frequently the disruption of communication facilities. When floods strike or storms devastate the area, cellular networks often suffer a complete blackout.

Recognizing this vulnerability, the inaugural meeting paid significant attention to the disaster response sector. Participants agreed to plan the operation of an ORARI repeater, strengthen monitoring posts, and build a radio-based Early Warning System (EWS) concept.

This initiative is designed so that emergency coordination with the Aceh Tamiang Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) can proceed instantaneously without signal hindrances. The active participation of the Datok Penghulu within ORARI’s ranks will certainly be a major key, ensuring every village has a 24-hour stand-by “mini post” monitoring situations right from the grassroots level.

Concrete Steps Toward UNAR on October 17, 2026

The spirit of togetherness was deeply felt when discussing activity funding, which was agreed to be carried out entirely through mutual cooperation—without imposing a burden, purely stemming from the willingness and capacity of each participant.

All preparations are now being boosted, including gearing up for the Radio Amateur State Examination (UNAR) scheduled for October 17, 2026. Utilizing a Computer Assisted Test (CAT) system, the examination will be centered at the Computer Laboratory of SMP Negeri 1 Karang Baru. The preparation team has even guaranteed full assistance for prospective members who require technical guidance regarding radio equipment.

Nurturing Unity, Building Solidarity

In an interactive discussion, Abdul Jabbar, one of the participants, emphasized the importance of equality and togetherness following the exam. The spirit of mutual aid and openness without barriers serves as the main foundation so that this organization is truly born from the heart to serve the community.

“Let us maintain our solidarity, remove all barriers, and welcome the formation of ORARI together for the greater good of our region,” stated the participants in their closing agreement.

With the conclusion of this initial meeting, strategic steps—ranging from finalizing UNAR participant data and preparing uniforms to obtaining Amateur Radio Licenses (IAR)—are now officially underway.

Now, the door stands wide open. The presence of ORARI Local Chapter Aceh Tamiang is not merely a hobby of taking to the airwaves, but a humanitarian calling: weaving the airwaves, securing villages, and saving fellow citizens. Interested in joining other radio enthusiasts and Datok Penghulu? The airwaves of Aceh Tamiang are preparing to connect on a single frequency of safety. []

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