Yes, it’s “bad luck’s fault” for us. Fair Future has been forced to invest in unbudgeted computer equipment for its field teams, and it’s painful!
Within two weeks, two of our MacBook Pro-type laptops failed us. Having them repaired is extremely expensive, according to the Apple Service Center.
As I said above, there are days when nothing goes well. You will tell me that “that’s life”. To which I answer you, “yes, indeed, I agree with you…”. But hey, I will try not to say bad words, but this is really “a financial obstacle” for the rest of our work and actions in the field.
I will tell you what happened and, for transparency, what we had to do to continue working. But above all, it’s incredible how much we depend on our computers, our IT tools. Having spent a few days without my laptop, I can say that in the 21st century, working without a computer tool, without a computer that you take everywhere with you, is just impossible. Is it not?
The history of the MacBook pro 13” of 2019
A little over six months ago, we had to change the battery. It cost us CHF.450.-. Previously, we had to change its motherboard. It cost us CHF.830.-.
Three weeks ago, the 2019 MacBook Pro 13” purchased in Switzerland, which Kawan Ayu uses for his excellent communication and reporting work and field actions, broke down. Suddenly the screen went blank. We have all tried to restore the situation, but it seems to be a hardware problem. So we brought this computer to the nearest Apple service, and the diagnosis is as follows: The screen must be completely changed.
Repair costs: IDR.12,000,000.-, or nearly CHF. 800.-
The chosen solution: It’s starting to do a lot, and we’re a little tired of these breakages. Therefore, we have acquired a new 13” MacBook Pro from the latest generation. This cost us IDR.25’999’000.- or CHF.1’667.-.
The history of the MacBook pro 16” of 2021
This computer is the work tool of Kawan Alex (me), the foundation that acquired it in 2021. I cannot do without it. He is the one who essentially manages the foundation and tells you what we are doing in the field. As part of my work, this computer follows me everywhere. I use it for activity reports, control of actions, feasibility studies of a project, and establishment of accounts of my visits to villages and families. But here’s what happened while I was in East Sumba, working in the field:
I took it out of my backpack, I wanted to turn it on, and a small dull explosion, accompanied by small flames, came out of the vents and various ventilation present… Then, absolutely nothing, total nothingness. As soon as we returned to Denpasar base camp, I also brought it to Apple service, and the diagnosis was just amazing: You have to change the motherboard and the screen.
This is the report from the iBox Service Center, received by mail and WhatsApp, about the MacBook Pro 16” 2021.
From Apple Service: -We opened the device and run a micro inspection: Found debris, found a burn mark on both fans, no LCI triggered, and no unauthorised modification was found. We run a deep cleaning. Run minimum start-up configuration: The issues persist! As per diagnostic results, the unit needs to replace Logic Board, Touch ID Board, and Fans part. Since the storage is built into the logic board and the central unit needs to replace the logic board part, all data will be lost.
Total repair: Motherboard Rp.13,600,000 + Touch ID Rp.1,600,000 + Left and right fan Rp.1,300,000 + Labor costs Rp.280,000.
If we add the 16” display and the speakers, which were also affected, that makes a total of nearly Rp. 40,000,000, or $2,600.-
The Apple service Center also said, quote “- From the results of an internal check, the possibility of this happening is because the dust in the internal part inhibits the fan’s rotation so that the unit becomes overheated and a short circuit occurs…”
And also: “The monitor must also be changed, and the two speakers which have been affected must be replaced. The cost of repairing the unit has exceeded the price of a new unit (Beyond Economical Repair). Therefore, it is not logical or economical to repair this 16” MacBook Pro that is less than two years old!”
UPDATE: On October 28, we received an email from Apple Service informing us that this computer could not be repaired. See the picture bellow.
The chosen solution: The urgency is to provide Alex with a work tool because without a computer, roughly speaking, he cannot work. Alex is most often in the field. Therefore, buying a new MacBook Pro is not the solution, as the risk is too significant. Indeed, the conditions on site are such (heat, dust, humidity, shocks, etc.) that the foundation does not wish to buy a new MacBook Pro. From then on, we acquired a simple iMac for his office at the foundation’s headquarters in Rumah Baik. This cost us IDR.29’999’000.- or CHF.1,923.-.
So much for what we call “lack of luck”! We owe you these few lines of explanation. We are sad, and I believe also a little shocked by the unreliability of Apple computers in recent years. They are not strong, not resistant and in any case, not made for work in difficult conditions, such as those we encounter every day here in East Sumba.
But like all of you, working without a computer is impossible. We depend on these tools. And when they break down, it’s an absolute disaster for us because we’re not rich.
It is with pleasure that you would like to help us repair these two units. Finding a good soul who would agree to do so will allow us to use them in the field within the framework of our Rumah Kambera Medico-Social Base Camp.
Alexandre Wettstein, Rumah Kambera, October 24, 2022
Help us overcome this huge problem
Date of Photos: 2022 | The work of Fair Future in a few images
For the past 15 years, the Fair Future Foundation has tirelessly pursued transformative change in humanitarianism. Starting from modest origins, it gradually expanded its reach to exert a significant global influence.
Through dedicated efforts and unwavering commitment, Fair Future has emerged as a beacon of hope, empowering communities and shaping the landscape of humanitarian aid worldwide.
In February 2024, we celebrated our 15th anniversary, which led me to reflect on the profound impact Fair Future has had over the years. This milestone serves not only as a celebration, but also as a recognition of the committed and unwavering team led by myself, Alex Wettstein – who have been dedicated to improving communities since day one.
As I look back on our journey, I am reminded of the myriad of people whose lives we have impacted – stories of strength and aspiration that have taken place in some of the most remote areas of East Sumba and beyond. All of it has served as a testament to our dedication to creating tangible change; from setting up temporary health clinics despite the sweltering heat outside to navigating treacherous overland trails just to be able to care for those in need.
Despite the celebrations, we cannot turn a blind eye to the harsh truths that persist. Malaria, tuberculosis and polio continue to ravage innocent lives with devastating effects on families and communities. Hunger and famine wreak havoc on the foundations of society, robbing children of their opportunities while perpetuating cycles of impoverishment. We strive to address the real causes of suffering and inequality rather than simply providing temporary solutions. The hashtags #PrimaryMedicalCare, #ZeroMalaria, #WaterConnections and #TruckofLife represent our unwavering quest for lasting transformations that empower communities to take charge of their futures.
Fair Future is distinguished by its proactive approach, as we don’t simply give funds and walk away. Instead, we engage on a practical level by working closely with communities in need. Our initiatives range from educating children on hygiene to performing critical surgeries in remote villages; each endeavor is fueled by compassion and unity of purpose.
As we look forward, I am humbled as we reflect on the overwhelming support we have received from people around the world. Your unwavering generosity has been imperative to the success of our organization, keeping us going during difficult times. However, our mission is far from over; many lives remain untouched and injustices persist that must be addressed. This inspires us to continue our efforts to make a difference. As we toast to the past fifteen years, let us reaffirm our commitment to our future mission. We must remain steadfast in our solidarity as we work to create a world where healthcare, education, and clean water are guaranteed human rights rather than luxuries. Together, we have the power to transform despair into optimism for future generations.
Thank you for being a part of this remarkable expedition. May we continue to make an impact, show compassion, and make a difference over the next fifteen years.
Alex Wettstein – Fair Future Foundation medico-social camp in East Sumba – Rumah Kambera, Lambanapu – The 6th of February 2024
