Aware of Issue is one of the annual flagship programs initiated by the Department of Studies, Action, and Propaganda of BEM FKH UGM. This program serves as a platform for the Veterinary Medicine Student Family of UGM (KM FKH UGM) and the general public to collectively address one of BEM FKH UGM’s strategic focus issues: animal health. This year, Aware of Issue 2025 returns with the theme “A Pawfect Pet”, aiming to raise public awareness about the importance of animal health and welfare, particularly for pets. As a strategic issue, animal health has fundamental, significant, and long-term impacts, making consistent attention and action essential. Aware of Issue 2025 represents BEM FKH UGM’s commitment to its roles in advocacy and public service through education and real action.
The Aware of Issue 2025 series consisted of published studies, educational content, and campaigns, culminating in a final event featuring a seminar and a medical check-up for pets. Educational content and campaigns were posted via the Instagram account @aoi_bemfkhugm, focusing on animal health and welfare topics. The highlight of Aware of Issue 2025 took place on Sunday, May 25, 2025, from 09:30 to 14:00 WIB at Seminar Rooms 1 and 2 of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, UGM. The event opened with remarks from the Head of the Organizing Committee, the President of BEM FKH UGM, and representatives from the faculty leadership. The main activities included a seminar titled “Beyond PawLove: The Real PawDuty Every Pet Deserves”, followed by a medical check-up for pets brought by participants.
The seminar featured drh. Yonathan Alvin Maruli Asi Sihotang, M.Sc., as the keynote speaker, provided an in-depth discussion on the definition of pet animals, along with various common examples. Dr. Alvin emphasized the importance of meeting the basic needs of pets, including care and affection from their owners, regular health maintenance, and a balanced diet through proper food and water provision. He also addressed common challenges faced by pet owners, such as financial constraints in caring for their pets, health risks to the owners, and a general lack of understanding regarding animal welfare. Furthermore, the seminar explored the negative impacts on pets when their basic needs are not met, affecting both their physical and mental health. The session concluded with a strong emphasis that pet ownership or adoption is not merely a hobby but a long-term commitment that comes with serious responsibility for ensuring the animals’ quality of life.
Following the seminar, a medical check-up session was held in Seminar Room 2, conducted by drh. Falin Fadhila Linawati is a practicing veterinarian. The check-up was attended by participants bringing a variety of pets, including cats, guinea pigs, sugar gliders, and other small animals. Through the Aware of Issue 2025 series, it is hoped that collective awareness will grow regarding the importance of maintaining animal health and welfare as a shared responsibility. This event also contributes to the achievement of several key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goals 3: Good Health and Well-being, 4: Quality Education, 13: Climate Action, and 15: Life on Land.
Cr: Nadia Atika Rahma
Ketua Pelaksana Aware of Issue, Muhamad Zukan Azzaki Salis Mualim (+62 851-5696-5294)
