Making a Difference in Indonesia

While Indonesia is still reeling from the potent natural disasters that have rocked this island nation in the last few years, Christian radio broadcasts continue to share Christ’s hope.

Words of Hope is broadcasting nightly programs in the languages of Macasar and Bugis, 30 minutes in each language seven nights a week.

Far East Broadcasting Co. (FEBC) airs the programs via shortwave, and a local medium wave (AM) station is also carrying the programs.

"[The AM broadcast] has really added to the response," said Lee DeYoung, Words of Hope’s vice president for broadcasting. "Pastors have told us that the broadcasts are bearing fruit and that they are proving to be a help to them in building their churches."

Indonesian laws prevent churches from legal registration until 75 families sign their names on registration certificates. Until that time, meeting locations must rotate weekly.

HCJB World Radio has worked with local partners to establish more than 14 local Christian radio stations across Indonesia since 2004.

Broadcasts from HCJB World Radio-Australia’s shortwave station in Kununurra also encourage listeners nationwide.

In addition, HCJB World Radio has helped with relief efforts since the Dec. 26, 2004, earthquake/tsunami and subsequent quakes that devastated parts of Indonesia.