By: Monica Santi

BINUS SCHOOL Simprug held an inter-school competition to commemorate Heroes’ Day, titled “PUSAKA” The event, which took place at BINUS SCHOOL Simprug last November 17, was attended by various state and private schools. Elementary, middle, and high school students participated in the competition.

BINUS SCHOOL Simprug teachers, parents, and staff attended the opening ceremony of PUSAKA. The opening ceremony was marked by singing the Indonesia Raya song and reciting Pancasila.

In his speech, BINUS SCHOOL Simprug principal Mr. Isaac Koh reminded us that on Heroes’ Day, we commemorate a national hero named Bung Tomo, who was born and raised in a humble family. 

Mr. Isaac encouraged us to reflect on and be inspired by the struggles and sacrifices of Bung Tomo. “Regardless of our age and our background, we can become heroes in our own right. We have the power to make positive impacts on the lives of others,” Mr. Isaac said.

After Mr. Isaac’s speech, grade 1 and 2 students sang the Soleram song from Riau.

During the event, we also had a special speech from Rania Yamin, BINUS alumni and great granddaughter of national hero Muhammad Yamin. Rania shared what she was like to be the great-granddaughter of a hero. Rania felt that she had a responsibility to maintain her grandfather’s good name, and she studied hard to make her dreams come true.

The event continued with various competitions, namely oration, individual drawing, and group painting.  For the oration competition, students had to choose national figures like Sukarno, Bung Tomo, Sutan Sjahrir, Muhammad Yamin and Sudirman. The theme of the drawing competition was “Indonesian heritage”.

The aims of PUSAKA are to build a high sense of nationalism, showcase the ability and potential of students who have talents and expertise in oratorical speech, art, dance, and music. In addition, the event aims to develop students’ creativity, artistic and language skills. Most importantly, PUSAKA is aimed at increasing awareness of the sacrifices of heroes in fighting for the independence of Indonesia.