BANGKA -- The joint homecoming programme facilitated by PT Timah for scholarship recipients of the Pemali Boarding School programme at SMAN 1 Pemali gave happiness to the participants who could return to their hometowns during Eid al-Fitr.
One of the scholarship recipients of PT Timah's Pemali Boarding School programme, Chriszona Sianipar, expressed her gratitude and joy at being able to return to her hometown in Tanjung Batu, Kundur District, Karimun Regency, Riau Islands Province.
"I am very happy and grateful to be able to participate in the Mudik Bersama PT Timah programme held this year. This programme is very useful, one of which is to give joy to everyone who participates," said Chriszona.
In addition to providing an opportunity to gather with family, this programme also helps students who are far from their hometowns to feel the warmth of the Eid atmosphere with those closest to them.
Mudik is not just a journey home, but also a moment to remember the roots and family values that have been long missed.
After arriving in her hometown, Chriszona revealed that the first thing she would do is rest before travelling around to see the village she had left behind. She also missed the peaceful atmosphere and her family and loved ones.
Chriszona also shared her experience on how she adapted to a new environment while travelling.
According to her, living away from family taught her independence and how to deal with various situations that are not always easy. The homecoming programme became an important moment to unwind and re-energise before returning to the overseas.
"The biggest challenge I faced during my time overseas was the diversity of people's characters. However, to overcome homesickness, I always call my parents and exchange news at least once a week," she adds.
She also revealed that this homecoming was something she was looking forward to.
"It's really cool to see my friends and go back to my hometown," he says enthusiastically.
Aside from catching up with her family, Chriszona also plans to spend time travelling around her hometown and having fun with those closest to her.
"I want to walk around my hometown, meet my loved ones, and enjoy the atmosphere that I've been missing for a long time," he adds.
He also encourages those who will be migrating in the future. ‘Cheer up and never give up! Pursue what you dream of, and never forget why you migrated,’ she said.
According to Chriszona, this programme should be maintained as it provides great benefits to the community. She hopes that this programme can continue to run and be more targeted, especially for the lower middle class who find it difficult to return home due to economic constraints.
"This programme is very helpful, especially for those who cannot go home due to financial constraints,’" she said.
PT Timah Tbk itself continues to be committed to supporting education and community welfare, not only through Pemali Boarding School but also with other social programmes. By ensuring access to education and opportunities for those who are economically disadvantaged, PT Timah Tbk hopes to build a more resilient and competitive young generation in the future.
PT Timah Tbk's Mudik Bersama programme continues to be one of the company's social concerns in helping people to gather with their families during special moments such as Lebaran.