A total of 586 eyes from 539 patients were successfully operated on through the Martabe Gold Mine Free Cataract Surgery Programme, held at Bhayangkara Batang Toru Hospital from 26th–28th September and 3rd–5th October 2025.
The programme, titled “Buka Mata, Lihat Indahnya Dunia”, is an annual initiative that has been consistently implemented since 2011 as a demonstration of the company’s commitment to improving public health in South Tapanuli and North Sumatra.
Following the completion at Batang Toru, the free cataract surgery programme will continue at Pandan Regional General Hospital (RSUD Pandan) on 18th–19th October, Sipirok Regional General Hospital (RSUD Sipirok) on 25th–26th October, Siantar Eye Hospital on 21st–23rd November, and will conclude at Mencirim 77 Eye Hospital in Medan on 29th–30th November 2025.
The Martabe Gold Mine free cataract surgery programme was made possible through a harmonious collaboration among various parties, including Bhayangkara Batang Toru Hospital, RSUD Pandan, RSUD Sipirok, Siantar Eye Hospital, Mencirim 77 Eye Hospital Medan, and the Health Office of South Tapanuli Regency, collectively ensuring high-quality eye care services for the community.
One of the beneficiaries, Erliwati Harahap (58) from Hapesong Baru, shared her hopes before undergoing surgery: “For the past two weeks, my vision has been clouded by a white haze. My work has slowed, and I even struggle to recognise people. I hope that after the surgery, I will be able to see clearly again, especially the faces of my grandchildren,” she said.
