Brighter living

Solar lighting enhances health, connection, and economic activity in rural Maluku 

 

October 16, 2025

 

As night falls over Maluku, solar-powered lights cast a gentle glow on village pathways, schools, and health posts, turning once-dark spaces into places of safety, connection, and opportunity.

 

In Waelo, Village Chief Iswayudhi reflects on the new dynamic the community is experiencing: “I hope this spirit stays alight, so Waelo can grow and thrive.” His words capture the sense of possibility now felt across 30 villages in Buru and South Buru Regency, where evenings no longer mark an abrupt end to daily life.

villagers gather for a meeting at night under a solar floodlight

For years, families relied on kerosene lamps, resin, or firewood to push back the darkness. The smoke brought health risks, while the lack of light limited studying, working, healthcare, and community gatherings. That reality is shifting. Through a partnership with Yayasan Walang Perempuan, more than 3,000 solar streetlights and floodlights have been installed, reaching over 30,000 people.

 

In Waelo, a nurse named Lastri has seen firsthand what this means for health:

The road to Waelo village is now easier and faster to reach. I can examine patients more effectively and efficiently. I'm delighted to see their smiles."

nurse and patient under solar-powered lightbulb
Economic life is also changing. Agus Wael, a eucalyptus oil distiller, explained: “Before we had lights, it was so hard to work at night. Sometimes we got sleepy quickly because it was dark. [Now,] I can distil oil at night, we stay awake all night because it's bright, working without being sleepy. The better the oil, the more income we'll have to support our families.”
eucalyptus distillers working under solar flood light at night
Evenings in Maluku now carry a new rhythm: children can play after sunset, villagers gather to discuss community issues, and health facilities remain open for emergencies. Beyond visibility, light here brings health, livelihood, and above all, hope for brighter futures. 

About the author:

Natalie Cru - Communication Lead at Signify Foundation

Natalie Cru

 

Communication Lead at Signify Foundation

About Signify

 

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT) is the world leader in lighting for professionals and consumers and lighting for the Internet of Things. Our Philips products, Interact connected lighting systems and data-enabled services, deliver business value and transform life in homes, buildings and public spaces. With 2019 sales of EUR 6.2 billion, we have approximately 38,000 employees and are present in over 70 countries. We unlock the extraordinary potential of light for brighter lives and a better world. We have been named Industry Leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for three years in a row. News from Signify is located at the Newsroom, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram. Information for investors can be found on the Investor Relations page.

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