History

Our history

A journey built on trust, resilience, and the belief that communities hold the power to shape their own future. This is the story of Yayasan Geutanyoe.

Rooted in Peace, Driven by Humanity

From pioneering peace movements in times of conflict to leading major regional disaster responses across Southeast Asia, Yayasan Geutanyoe has spent decades standing alongside vulnerable communities.

Since 2015

Empowering Humanity in Aceh Through Dedicated Disaster Management & Community Resilience

As a leading humanitarian NGO in Aceh, Geutanyoe Foundation has been at the forefront of disaster management in Aceh, humanitarian action, and long-term community recovery . Guided by our foundational mandate of empowering humanity in Aceh, our history reflects decades of selfless community service, rights protection, and sustainable development across Southeast Asia

Yayasan Geutanyoe emerged from the long journey of a group of activists who pioneered civil, humanitarian, and non-violent movements in Aceh during the armed conflict that began in 1999. Drawing on their experience supporting conflict-affected communities, the founders became convinced that humanity, peace, and respect for human dignity must serve as the foundation for sustainable change.

When the devastating earthquake and tsunami struck Aceh on December 26, 2004, this conviction was further reinforced through their involvement in emergency response, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts alongside local communities and various national and international partners. It was through these experiences with conflict and disaster that a profound understanding developed regarding the importance of community resilience, protection, recovery, and the active participation of communities in shaping their own futures.

Today, Yayasan Geutanyoe continues this journey through humanitarian and development work grounded in dignity, humanity, equality, justice, peace, democracy, and sustainability. The name “Geutanyoe”—meaning “all of us” in the Acehnese language—embodies the belief that meaningful change is built through togetherness, solidarity, and respect for every individual.

Yayasan Geutanyoe is registered as a foundation under Notarial Deed No. 01 dated October 1, 2015, as amended by Notarial Deed No. 9 dated February 14, 2023. The foundation is also registered with the Ministry of Law and Human Rights of the Republic of Indonesia under registration number AHU-0015804.AH.01.04.2015.
Yayasan Geutanyoe’s visual identity is deeply rooted in Acehnese culture. The Geutanyoe logo represents the “Saleum” greeting—an expression of respect and brotherhood in Acehnese culture—combined with the traditional motifs and colors of *Kerawang Gayo*. This blend reflects the identity, cultural diversity, brotherhood, and spirit of humanity that are part of the Geutanyoe Foundation’s journey.

Key Milestones & Historical Timeline

2015-2025

Protecting Rohingya Refugees at Sea & Land

Yayasan Geutanyoe was among the primary first responders when boats carrying Rohingya refugees arrived off the coast of Aceh. Between 2015 and 2025, a total of 40 vessels carrying 7,622 Rohingya refugees landed in Aceh. Geutanyoe provided emergency assistance, primary healthcare, child protection, mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS), informal education, vocational skills, and social cohesion initiatives across Aceh, North Sumatra, and Pekanbaru

2015-2025

Protecting Rohingya Refugees at Sea & Land

Yayasan Geutanyoe was among the primary first responders when boats carrying Rohingya refugees arrived off the coast of Aceh. Between 2015 and 2025, a total of 40 vessels carrying 7,622 Rohingya refugees landed in Aceh. Geutanyoe provided emergency assistance, primary healthcare, child protection, mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS), informal education, vocational skills, and social cohesion initiatives across Aceh, North Sumatra, and Pekanbaru

2015-2025

Protecting Rohingya Refugees at Sea & Land

Yayasan Geutanyoe was among the primary first responders when boats carrying Rohingya refugees arrived off the coast of Aceh. Between 2015 and 2025, a total of 40 vessels carrying 7,622 Rohingya refugees landed in Aceh. Geutanyoe provided emergency assistance, primary healthcare, child protection, mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS), informal education, vocational skills, and social cohesion initiatives across Aceh, North Sumatra, and Pekanbaru

2015-2025

Protecting Rohingya Refugees at Sea & Land

Yayasan Geutanyoe was among the primary first responders when boats carrying Rohingya refugees arrived off the coast of Aceh. Between 2015 and 2025, a total of 40 vessels carrying 7,622 Rohingya refugees landed in Aceh. Geutanyoe provided emergency assistance, primary healthcare, child protection, mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS), informal education, vocational skills, and social cohesion initiatives across Aceh, North Sumatra, and Pekanbaru

Your support builds what lasts

Every contribution funds real work with real communities. Nothing is wasted. Nothing is forgotten.