BANGKA BARAT -- As part of PT Timah’s 49th Anniversary celebration, the Division of Processing and Refinery held a National Song Karaoke Competition for students at Wisma Majapahit on Saturday (August 23, 2025).
The event was joined by dozens of students from elementary, middle, and high schools, and was officially opened by Division Head of Processing and Refinery, Sopian Simangunsong. This activity aligns with the 49th Anniversary theme, “For the Red and White.”
According to Sopian Simangunsong, the competition was part of the anniversary series as well as the commemoration of Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day, aiming to foster nationalism among children.
“This competition aims to cultivate a spirit of patriotism and nationalism in children, while also educating them to know and appreciate national songs,” said Sopian.
Students in Bangka Barat performed confidently, singing patriotic songs. One of them, Alula, a second grader from Muhammadiyah Elementary School, sang “Tanah Airku.”
“Singing is my hobby. If I win, I’ll save the prize money to buy school supplies,” said Alula innocently.
Meanwhile, Chasia, a fourth grader from Santa Maria Elementary School, sang “Indonesia Pusaka” with heartfelt expression. Accompanied by her parents, she said she was happy to participate.
“If I get a prize, I’ll use it to buy school supplies. I want to be a doctor in the future,” she said.
The excitement of the event was also felt by parents who faithfully accompanied their children. Rodo Manullang, who came to support his two children, Marshella (grade 4) and Manuell (grade 1) from Santa Maria Elementary School, said the competition was a valuable experience.
“We came to give encouragement while also joining in the celebration of PT Timah’s anniversary and Indonesia’s Independence Day. The children are happy, and the parents are entertained as well,” he said.
Devi, the parent of Queen Azzahra Dwi Putri, a student of SMPN 1 Mentok, shared the same sentiment.
“Besides entertainment, this competition is also a platform to discover children’s hidden talents. Activities like this are very positive,” she said.
The karaoke competition was not only about entertainment but also served as an educational platform to shape the character of the younger generation. Through songs, the values of love for the homeland were instilled, in line with the spirit of PT Timah’s 49th Anniversary and Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day.
