Photo: The teenage girl waits patiently as a nurse wraps the blood pressure band around her upper arm at Papua Agro Lestari (PAL)’s clinic, some time before her cleft lip surgery
MERAUKE – Gazing at her reflection in the mirror, Kathlin Banos Koula feels like a new person. Looks are important for teenagers like her, who are in that stage where identity and self-image constantly shift. Anything that fixes physical imperfections is seen as a confidence boost.
“We are beyond grateful for TSE Group’s support in my daughter’s recovery. She doesn’t feel insecure anymore meeting friends,” the girl’s father, Banos Paulinus Kakop Koula, said with great emotion.
Born with a cleft lip and little resources to repair the defect, Kathlin was afforded the chance to receive surgery by Tunas Sawa Erma Group, an oil palm company in South Papua. It is through this initiative that attention continues to be paid to Papuan communities, and that Kathlin’s medical journey becomes an inspiring story demonstrating the life-altering power of sympathy.
Earlier, TSE Group’s PR General Manager Park Jibae provided the teen with moral support. He had high hopes that the procedure would bring a positive transformation and mark her first step to a better life.
“We believe every child has the right to smile with confidence,” said Park to Kathlin and her family before their departure to Merauke Public Hospital, where the operation took place.
TSE Group helped with surgery costs and also ensured the patient had a smooth ride throughout the process. Its support spanned from BPJS (state health insurance) membership registration, transportation, accommodation, funding for further treatment, suture removal at subsidiary Papua Agro Lestari (PAL)’s clinic, to post-surgery care education for Kathlin’s loved ones.
Photo: TSE Group reps with Kathlin and her family post-surgery
Since the launch of its health program in 2023, TSE Group has made real changes to the lives of young Papuans. Kathlin’s tale is one of many that prove how children with cleft lips are able to find confidence, speak clearly, and live a much fulfilling reality with the right amount of attention and assistance. Not only does the company deliver new hopes through this aid, it helps lead the way for other corporations to meet their social responsibility.
TSE Group remains committed to improving the health and overall well-being of Papuan communities. For the company, every smile is a symbol of new hope, and every hope is a move forward to a brighter future. (PR)
