The Existence Behind Crazy Rich Surabaya's Assistance

(Photo: Instagram @tomliwafa)

JAKARTA - The COVID-19 outbreak has an impact on the economic side of the community. Many of them were laid off or even lost their jobs. However, there were also many parties who provided assistance.

It's just that, in the process of providing assistance, they often document in the form of photos or videos and upload them to personal social media accounts. So, there are many assumptions that the giving of assistance is only to boast subtly.

As in the viral video, which shows two men preparing basic necessities, namely several boxes of instant noodles. They were seen putting the Rp100,000 bill into the box and closing it again.

Furthermore, in the video which lasts about 2 minutes 34 seconds uploaded by the Instagram account @tomliwafa, they drive around the city of Surabaya by driving a car and share the assistance with people they meet on their way.

University of Indonesia sociologist Bayu A. Yulianto said that in the viral video, the problem was not a matter of sincere or not providing assistance. Rather, it is a matter of sensation to seek existence.

When compared with similar activities, many parties provide assistance only to get recognition from others. So, get a place in an environment.

"In fact, the debate is not there, in my opinion. That's why I look more at the sensation element in seeking existence," said Bayu to VOI, Wednesday, May 6.

In other words, if you want to assess the true purpose when someone or certain parties provide assistance, you must see who does it. For example, if a politician provides assistance, most likely the main goal is to seek popularity or image.

However, that does not mean that this perspective can be used for all. Because, every activity or figure must have different goals.

"Obviously it can't be (equated, ed), others must look at the context first," said Bayu.

In addition, Gajah Mada University sociologist, Sunyoto Usman, said that if the assistance had to be published, it would focus on the recipient, not the giver. So, this can prevent a bad view of these social activities.

"If it is uploaded to social media, maybe it is permissible. The goal is not to show off (narcissist, red), but rather to open awareness of the importance of sharing," said Sunyoto.

Using an agency or organization to distribute aid is highly recommended for those who wish to provide assistance. Because, in this way it can prevent negative views from the wider community.

"Now there are actually many institutions that can distribute aid (foundations, media, religious organizations, etc.). If we are worried, we can convey our assistance to these institutions," concluded Sunyoto.