Exploring Susila Dharma International:
Empowering Global Change Susila Dharma International (SDI) is a non-profit organisation with a global mission to promote social justice and sustainable development by empowering local communities. It achieves this by focusing on education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability. This article explores several projects SDI supports, including those in the UK, while describing the role of Subud in these efforts.
The Vision of Susila Dharma International
Susila Dharma International is connected to Subud, a spiritual organization established in Indonesia in the 1920s. While Subud focuses on personal development through spiritual practices, SDI is its charitable arm, dedicated to serving communities worldwide. SDI’s vision is rooted in the Subud principles of compassion, service, and respect for all people, regardless of their background or beliefs.
SDI works across various sectors to address social justice and development, collaborating with local communities to create positive change. Let’s look at some of the projects that illustrate SDI’s impact.
Education for a Brighter Future
Education is one of the most powerful tools for social change, and SDI supports projects that provide educational opportunities to those who need them most. A prime example is the Borneo Football International Foundation, which operates in Indonesia. This project uses football (soccer) as a platform to engage children and teenagers, promoting education, teamwork, and social skills. By integrating education into a sports programme, SDI helps create a brighter future for young people by providing them with skills and knowledge to succeed.
Another example of SDI’s educational work is Anisha, a project in India that promotes sustainable agriculture and education among rural youth. It empowers children to understand the importance of sustainable farming practices, allowing them to contribute to their families’ livelihoods and the broader community’s food security.
Healthcare and Well-being
SDI recognises that healthcare is foundational to thriving communities. The organisation supports projects that address various healthcare needs, from basic medical services to specialised treatments. One example is the Priscilla Centre, based in India. It provides healthcare services and vocational training for women, aiming to improve their health while offering them the skills to become self-sufficient and economically independent.
Another notable healthcare project is the YUM Vocational Training Centre, located in Indonesia. Although its primary focus is on vocational training, the centre also offers basic health services to the local community, ensuring that people have access to essential care while learning new skills.
Sustainable Development and Environmental Stewardship
Sustainability is central to SDI’s mission. The organisation supports projects that promote environmental stewardship and encourage communities to adopt sustainable practices. An example of this is the Centro de Educación y Tecnología (CET) in Chile, which focuses on promoting sustainable living through education and practical training. It teaches communities about organic farming, renewable energy, and other sustainable practices, helping them reduce their environmental footprint.
In Papua New Guinea, the Kwikila Infirmary provides healthcare services to a remote community while emphasising environmental sustainability in its operations. The infirmary uses solar energy and other eco-friendly practices, demonstrating that healthcare and sustainability can coexist.
Community Development in the UK
SDI’s reach extends to the UK, where it supports projects that encourage community development and social cohesion. One such project is the Subud Youth Activities in the UK, which provides a platform for young people to engage in creative and social activities, building a sense of community and encouraging positive social interactions. Although specific links are not available, SDI’s support for these initiatives showcases its commitment to creating positive change wherever it operates.
Through its diverse projects, Susila Dharma International Projects demonstrates that lasting social change is possible when communities are empowered to create their solutions. By focusing on education, healthcare, and sustainable development, SDI is making a tangible difference in the lives of people around the world.