Before undergoing surgery, each patient received a special briefing on the importance of maintaining eye health. This education was delivered by Eye Specialist at Mata Mencirim 77 Medan Hospital, Dr. Syarifuddin A., Sp.M, who emphasised that recovery depends not only on medical intervention but also on the patient’s understanding and care for their own eye health. 

“Cataracts often begin with simple signs—blurred vision, faded colours, or seeing halos around lights. Yet, many ignore these symptoms until their vision is seriously impaired,” Dr. Syarifuddin explained during the patient briefing prior to surgery. 

He also reminded patients that excessive exposure to sunlight can increase the risk of cataracts, particularly for those who work outdoors frequently. Therefore, he advised the use of protective measures such as sunglasses and hats, alongside maintaining a healthy diet to support eye health. 

“Eyes are a gift. After surgery, care for them carefully—avoid dust, smoke, and refrain from rubbing your eyes. Recovery is a collaborative effort between doctor and patient,” he said gently, met with hopeful nods from the surgery participants. 

One of the beneficiaries, Tarsih, aged 66, from Kampung Baru, Sibabangun District, expressed her gratitude after the procedure. “I wasn’t afraid during the operation because the doctor and nurses were gentle. After the surgery, the doctor advised me to avoid dust and smoke. Now I can see clearly again. Thank you to everyone who helped,” she said with a heartfelt smile. 

Following the procedures in Batang Toru and Pandan, the programme will continue at Sipirok Regional General Hospital (RSUD Sipirok) on 24–26 October 2025, Mata Siantar Hospital on 21–23 November 2025, and Mata Mencirim 77 Medan Hospital on 29–30 November 2025. 

If you are interested in learning more about the initiatives and contributions of PT. Agincourt Resources, including their gold mining and processing activities, you can click here.

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The program will consist of 17 surgical sessions, starting at Bhayangkara Hospital Batang Toru from September 26–28 and October 3–5, followed by Pandan General Hospital (October 17–19), Sipirok General Hospital (October 24–26), Siantar Eye Hospital (November 21–23), and concluding at Mencirim 77 Eye Hospital in Medan (November 29–30).

The General Manager of Operations & Deputy Director of Operations of PT Agincourt Resources, Rahmat Lubis, stated that the free cataract surgery program is a tangible contribution from the Company to improve the quality of life for underprivileged communities, especially those with limited access to cataract surgery.

“Through the cataract surgeries, we aim to help people regain their eyesight so they can become more productive and independent, while also creating a positive impact for their families and surrounding communities. This community health program, which we have been conducting since 2011, is an integral part of the company’s sustainability strategy,” he said.

This cataract surgery program is aligned with the third Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), which is to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all people at all ages.

Since it was first held in 2011 through 2024, this annual program has performed cataract surgeries on 12,173 eyes belonging to 10,684 patients. The youngest patient was 8 months old, while the oldest was 108 years old, coming from various regions across North Sumatra, including South Tapanuli, Central Tapanuli, Sibolga, North Tapanuli, North Padang Lawas, Padang Lawas, Mandailing Natal, Pematangsiantar, Deli Serdang, Medan, and Nias.

Christine Pepah, Senior Manager of Community of PT Agincourt Resources, added that this year PT Agincourt Resources (PTAR) is once again partnering with Mencirim 77 Eye Hospital in Medan, which has been experienced in performing cataract surgeries since 2005.

In addition to the surgeries, PTAR held Eye Health Information Week at Sopo Daganak, Batang Toru, South Tapanuli, on August 22, 2025. During the event, healthcare workers and Posyandu volunteers received practical training on early cataract detection as well as educational guidance on prevention in their respective areas.

“We strive to promote comprehensive eye health for the community, from awareness campaigns to medical treatment, so that the benefits are sustainable for frontline healthcare providers through Eye Health Information Week,” said Christine.

During the Eye Health Information Week, the Director of Mencirim 77 Eye Hospital in Medan, Dr. Syarifuddin A., Sp.M, explained that cataracts are usually characterized by several symptoms, including blurred vision, frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions, difficulty seeing clearly at night, and the appearance of halos around light sources.

”Occupations that are frequently exposed to sunlight also increase the risk of cataracts. Patients usually also experience faded colors and double vision,” he explained.

For the cataract procedures, the team will employ the Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS) technique, which involves a 5–7 millimeter incision on the side of the eyeball and generally requires fewer sutures.

”The duration of the procedure is relatively short, taking about 10 to 15 minutes. The recovery period is generally around 1 month,” said Dr. Syarifuddin.

Umar Siregar, a resident of Silandit Village, Padangsidimpuan, underwent cataract surgery at the Martabe Gold Mine. For 15 years, he suffered from cataracts, which severely limited his activities and required him to be guided by others when going outside.

In 2024, Umar underwent free cataract surgery sponsored by PTAR in Batang Toru. After his eyes return to normal, he can do activities independently, even ride a motorcycle.

”It is absolutely amazing. For 15 years, I lost a lot, but thanks to this program, I feel like I’ve gained a new life. I am very grateful to Agincourt Resources because this free cataract surgery program has truly restored my spirit and quality of life,” said Umar.

Not only restoring eyesight, Umar’s story is proof that PTAR’s free cataract surgery program can also bring back hope and independence to people’s lives.

THE END

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