PANGKALPINANG -- Behind Aikal's journey through the PT TIMAH (Persero) Tbk Scholarship Class Program lies a heartfelt dream. A resident of Tugang Village, Kelapa District, West Bangka Regency, Aikal is determined to build a better future while making his parents proud.
The graduate of SMP Negeri 2 Jebus, West Bangka Regency, is making the most of the educational scholarship provided by PT TIMAH to pursue his aspirations and create a brighter future for his family.
Despite his family's financial limitations, Aikal has never let adversity stand in the way of his ambitions. Instead, he has turned those challenges into motivation to study harder and strive for success.
His determination paid off when he became one of the 36 students selected for the 2026/2027 PT TIMAH Scholarship Class Program. He has now begun his studies at SMAN 1 Pemali through the Pemali Boarding School program.
For Aikal, earning this opportunity means far more than receiving a quality education. It is a chance to prove to his parents that their unwavering support, sacrifices, and prayers have not been in vain.
Aikal's father works as a traveling fish vendor, while his mother is a homemaker. Despite their modest financial circumstances, both have consistently encouraged him to pursue his education and work hard toward a better future.
"My parents encouraged and motivated me to apply. Alhamdulillah, I was accepted, and they were incredibly proud," Aikal said.
Aikal first learned about the scholarship program from one of his teachers. With the full support of his family, he committed himself to every stage of the selection process.
The academic examination was one of the most challenging parts of the selection. To prepare, he devoted more time to studying and sought advice from alumni to better understand the exam and selection process.
His hard work eventually paid off. Aikal successfully passed all stages of the selection and earned the opportunity to continue his education at Pemali Boarding School.
According to Aikal, the program offers many valuable benefits. In addition to receiving access to a quality education, he now has the opportunity to meet friends from different regions and develop greater independence.
"Studying here has allowed me to make many new friends and learn to be independent. This program has also greatly eased my family's financial burden," he said.
Living in a boarding school requires Aikal to adapt to life away from his parents. However, he views the experience as an important part of his personal growth and development.
His passion for learning and determination to achieve his dreams continue to motivate him throughout his journey at Pemali Boarding School.
For Aikal, every step he takes today is part of a larger journey toward achieving his dreams. He remains committed to studying diligently so that one day he can bring happiness to his parents.
"I would like to express my sincere gratitude to PT TIMAH for the Scholarship Class Program and for giving me the opportunity to become one of the students here," he said.
The Pemali Boarding School Excellence Class Program is part of PT TIMAH Tbk's Corporate Social and Environmental Responsibility (TJSL) initiative in the field of education.
The program is designed for high-achieving students with strong academic potential who face financial challenges in pursuing their education.
Through this scholarship program, 36 students successfully passed the selection process and were awarded the opportunity to study at Pemali Boarding School.
The initiative reflects PT TIMAH's commitment to expanding access to quality education for young people living in and around the company's operational areas. (*)
