BANGKA -- The determination of Nabitha Aurelia (20), affectionately known as Bhita, to break into the national music scene has finally paid off. Her journey to bring pride to Bangka Belitung has also received support from PT TIMAH (Persero) Tbk, which provided financial assistance to help her pursue her dreams in the national dangdut singing competition.
After several audition attempts, the young singer from Bangka Belitung successfully advanced to the Top 11 of D'Academy 8, a talent competition broadcast on Indosiar. PT TIMAH's support for Bhita reflects the company's commitment to nurturing the potential of young people in the region, enabling them to continue developing their talents and achieving success.
Beyond supporting Bhita, PT TIMAH has also consistently assisted young talents from Bangka Belitung in participating in various national and international competitions.
Behind her performances on television lies a long journey filled with determination and perseverance. The fourth of five children, Bhita began showing her singing talent when she was in third grade. She later developed her vocal abilities through performing arts studios and guidance from vocal coaches while actively participating in local singing competitions. However, reaching the national stage required four attempts at D'Academy auditions, beginning with the fifth season before she finally secured a spot in the eighth season.
Bhita's mother, Khotijah, shared that her daughter's journey to compete at the national level was far from easy. Financial limitations were among the challenges the family faced, particularly when Bhita decided to attend an in-person audition in Palembang. The family had to save money little by little to cover travel expenses, while Bhita also worked to earn additional funds by participating in various competitions.
"Preparing for an audition requires a lot of planning, from transportation and meals to other necessities. We saved money little by little. Bhita also participated in competitions while continuing to learn and save money. Thankfully, when the auditions opened in Palembang, we were finally able to make the trip," she said.
Khotijah expressed her pride and happiness in seeing her daughter become the only remaining contestant from Bangka Belitung to reach the Top 11. Although financial constraints have prevented her from watching Bhita perform live at the studio, she continues to offer prayers and encouragement from their hometown.
According to Khotijah, the greatest challenges Bhita faces extend beyond her singing abilities. They also include maintaining her mental resilience amid the pressures of competition, demanding rehearsal schedules, and various comments on social media.
"As parents, of course we're happy and proud, especially because Bhita is the only contestant from Bangka Belitung still in the competition. We always pray for her and encourage her because the challenges there aren't just about singing, but also about mental strength. Sometimes rehearsals continue until midnight, leaving little time to rest, not to mention the comments on social media. She really has to be mentally strong. We always remind Bhita to keep trying and praying because not every journey is smooth," she explained.
Amid the various expenses associated with participating in the competition, the support provided by PT TIMAH (Persero) Tbk has brought great happiness to Bhita's family. The company's assistance has been particularly meaningful in helping ease the financial burden of the competition, including preparations made by the family to support Bhita throughout her journey.
In addition to arranging family support in Jakarta, the family has also made efforts to introduce Bangka Belitung's traditional culinary specialties by preparing local delicacies as gifts for the D'Academy judges and production team.
"We're truly happy because this assistance means so much to us. Throughout Bhita's participation in the competition, there have been many expenses to prepare for. It's not just about transportation, but also daily needs while in Jakarta, including traditional Bangka Belitung delicacies that we've prepared to introduce our local cuisine to the judges and the team. What PT TIMAH has given us is incredibly valuable and has helped us tremendously. Thank you so much to PT TIMAH for showing such care and support for Bhita," she said.
Meanwhile, Bhita expressed her happiness and pride, admitting that she never imagined her journey would take her this far or give her the opportunity to perform on national television. Since entering the competition's residential training program in June, she has gained many valuable experiences, from meeting contestants from different regions across Indonesia to learning new skills and lessons throughout the competition.
"I feel really happy and proud to have made it this far. I honestly never expected to reach this stage. Everything about staying at the dormitory has been memorable, from meeting friends from all over Indonesia and spending time together to participating in various activities. I've gained so many valuable experiences and learned so much while being here," Bhita said during a video call interview on Monday (November 2, 2026).
Despite enjoying the many experiences the competition has brought her, Bhita admitted that she still misses her family, especially her mother. Since moving into the dormitory, most of her communication with her family has taken place over the phone. She hopes her mother will soon have the opportunity to watch her perform live at the Indosiar studio.
"Of course I miss my family, especially my mom. I'm used to seeing her and talking to her in person. I really want my mom to come and watch me perform live at the studio," she said.
Bhita also expressed her gratitude for the encouragement and support she has received throughout the competition. She hopes to continue delivering her best performances while helping bring greater recognition to Bangka Belitung on the national stage.
"I'm really happy and grateful because, thankfully, so many people have been supporting me throughout this journey. I hope I can achieve the best possible results for Bangka Belitung. Please keep me in your prayers so that my performances go smoothly and everything goes well," she concluded. (*)
