Two high school students from Papua, Franciscus Sakfiris Pahabolisage and Stincek Laramiapa, had the honor of being selected as members of the Pasukan Pengibar Bendera Pusaka (Paskibraka) to participate in Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day celebrations at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta, alongside President Prabowo Subianto. Franciscus, representing Papua Pegunungan Province, and Stincek, representing Papua Tengah Province, expressed their pride and excitement at this opportunity. They both underwent a rigorous selection process that tested their physical and mental capabilities before reaching the national level.
Franciscus shared his experience of adjusting to the physical training, such as running, push-ups, and sit-ups, which was a new challenge for him. Despite the initial shock, he found the training beneficial and was grateful for the opportunity to participate. Stincek, on the other hand, emphasized her commitment to delivering her best performance during the flag-raising ceremony in front of the President and the nation. She spoke about the camaraderie and teamwork developed among the Paskibraka members from all 38 provinces during their training.
Both students acknowledged their nervousness about meeting the President in person but expressed their excitement and joy at being part of the Paskibraka team. They were grateful for the experience and the opportunity to represent their provinces on such a significant occasion. As they prepared for the big day on August 17, Franciscus and Stincek were determined to raise the national flag with pride and make their country proud.
