JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS – Martunis Ronaldo, the adopted son of global football icon Cristiano Ronaldo, has been named as a global humanitarian ambassador for the digital platform Disaster and Climate Technology Hub at UIN Ar-Raniry in Banda Aceh last Friday.

“I’ve always felt that my life was saved for a greater purpose. I want the world to know that disasters are not just statistics. Behind these numbers are human lives, stories, shattered hopes, but always a way provided by God,” Martunis said in his address during the Global Volunteers Gathering on Sunday.

As a humanitarian ambassador and disaster survivor, Martunis will speak to the world and collaborate with global volunteers from various humanitarian organizations, working to raise the voices of disaster victims on the global stage.

“This world is interconnected, and it is our duty to ensure that no one is left behind when disaster strikes,” he added.

Martunis, who has a unique perspective as a disaster survivor, is able to share in-depth insights on recovery and the profound impact of loss.

He survived the devastating 2004 tsunami that struck Aceh, wearing the Portuguese national football team jersey with Rui Costa’s number 10.

The story captured global attention and reached Cristiano Ronaldo, who was playing for Manchester United at the time. Ronaldo later adopted Martunis as his son.

The appointment of Martunis as a global humanitarian ambassador highlights his commitment to advocating for disaster relief and supporting affected communities. (Uki Ruknuddin)