KARIMUN -- PT TIMAH (Persero) Tbk continues to support the development of students’ potential in its operational areas through various initiatives in education and talent development. One such initiative supports the athletic achievements of students at SMAN 4 Kundur in Karimun Regency, Riau Islands Province.
The support enabled the SMAN 4 Kundur girls’ futsal team to participate in the AXIS Nation Cup tournament in Batam. In addition to supporting the team’s participation in the competition, the assistance was also used to purchase uniforms for the girls’ futsal team, allowing the students to compete in their own uniforms.
Budi Kurniawan, Vice Principal for Student Affairs at SMAN 4 Kundur, said the support has benefited the students, particularly the girls’ futsal team, which has faced financial constraints in participating in various activities and competitions.
“Alhamdulillah, we used the support from PT TIMAH to participate in the futsal tournament in Batam and to purchase uniforms for the girls’ futsal team. Previously, they had to share uniforms with the boys’ futsal team,” Budi said.
At the AXIS Nation Cup, the SMAN 4 Kundur girls’ futsal team successfully advanced through the preliminary rounds and secured a place in the top 10. Their efforts ultimately resulted in a third-place finish in the Riau Islands Region.
According to Budi, the achievement is a source of pride for the school and has also motivated the students to continue developing their athletic abilities.
“Alhamdulillah, it was an incredible achievement. The students are highly motivated, and they are even more enthusiastic now that they have their own uniforms. Our school also has limited funding to support all student activities,” he said.
He added that athletic achievement is nothing new for SMAN 4 Kundur. Students regularly participate in extracurricular activities and training to prepare for various competitions.
In addition to supporting sports activities, Budi said PT TIMAH has also provided assistance for various other school programs. This includes transportation assistance for students, particularly when they participate in activities outside the Kundur area.
According to Budi, PT TIMAH’s support has also extended to a range of school activities and needs, including Scouting activities, the construction of a prayer room, and transportation needs to support student training and activities.
Looking ahead, SMAN 4 Kundur hopes the collaboration will continue, allowing more students to develop their potential in sports and other fields.
“We hope this kind of support will continue. In the near future, we will also participate in a marching formation competition. Support like this is extremely helpful in providing opportunities for our students to pursue achievements,” he said. (*)