DENPASAR, OborDewata.com – Pride swept over Bali as two of its finest students successfully made the cut for the national Independence Day flag-raising squad (Paskibraka). The duo, accompanied by their parents and the Head of Bali’s National Unity, Politics, and Community Protection Agency, I Gede Suralaga, was welcomed by the Governor of Bali during an audience at Jayasabha, Denpasar, on Monday (July 13).
The two students representing Bali on the national stage are I Made Dwi Sathya Kurniawan (16) from SMAN 1 Kuta Utara, Badung, and Ni Komang Gayatri Dinda Gita Arsani (16) from SMAN 1 Kubu, Karangasem.
Their achievement is highly commendable, considering they had to ace a series of fiercely competitive selections. Initially, the Bali Provincial Government sent six top candidates (three boys and three girls) to the national-level selection. Ultimately, only one boy and one girl secured their spots to represent the island.
Next up, the two teenagers will undergo a intensive 40-day training camp in Depok. This is their final preparation before taking on the prestigious state duty as members of the National Paskibraka on the upcoming 81st Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia.
During the meeting, Governor Wayan Koster congratulated the students and reminded them to maintain discipline, integrity, and a strong spirit of service throughout their training and official duties.
“Show your absolute best and make Bali proud. Carry out your duties with a full sense of responsibility so you can bring honor to our region on the national stage,” the Governor advised.
To show support, the Bali Provincial Government is providing financial assistance for their training period. On top of that, the administration is also covering the travel and accommodation costs for the families accompanying them to Jakarta.
Governor Koster Steps Up to Support the Students’ Families Governor Koster showed extra care for the family of Ni Komang Gayatri Dinda Gita Arsani, who has been raised by her single mother, Ni Wayan Sudiarsani, after her father passed away.
The Governor specifically requested that her mother not travel alone to Jakarta to accompany her daughter, suggesting she bring along other family members instead. The provincial government will fully cover all travel and accommodation expenses for the accompanying family. Additionally, Governor Wayan Koster personally gave both students some pocket money as a token of appreciation and support for their upcoming state duties.
The success of I Made Dwi Sathya Kurniawan and Ni Komang Gayatri Dinda Gita Arsani proves that hard work, discipline, and continuous mentoring can lead Bali’s youth to achieve top honors. It is hoped that their success story will inspire other young Balinese to dream big and serve the country. mas/sathya