Youth Performers Reflect on 81st Anniversary of Independence Experience
The commemoration of the 81st Anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence at Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Monday (08/17) became an unforgettable moment for youth performing before President Prabowo Subianto, including the Gita Bahana Nusantara choir members and students from the People’s School (Sekolah Rakyat).
Among them were Adiel Mintarja from Bali province as well as Raisya Putri Ahmad and Jessie Nababan from Integrated People’s School (SRT) 4 Jakarta, who shared their inspiring stories, enthusiasm, and aspirations.
For Adiel, the opportunity to perform at Merdeka Palace was the culmination of a long process that began with auditioning for Gita Bahana Nusantara in July 2026. As an alto choir member, she spent weeks in rehearsals before finally performing at the commemoration.
“I am thrilled, extremely proud, and though I still lack a bit of confidence, it feels like a miracle that today, in this once-in-a-lifetime moment, I represent Bali province performing with the 2026 Gita Bahana Nusantara choir,” Adiel said.
She shared that one of the biggest challenges was performing folk songs from across Indonesia. Beyond mastering vocal techniques, she had to familiarize herself with the unique character of each song and the rich cultural heritage within them.
“Perhaps the unique challenge for me, especially singing the alto part, was when we were given new songs. Since we brought many regional songs, especially for the Gita Bahana Nusantara medley from various regions, and of course not all of us had them memorized, the real challenge was understanding all the different cultures and songs,” she said.
Raisya also shared her joy and enthusiasm when given the opportunity to perform in a choir before the palace’s crowd.
“I am so incredibly happy and excited. Who knows when I’ll get to visit again,” she said.
The preparation stage, including the routine rehearsals and two to three dress rehearsals, was, for Raisya, not just preparation for the performance, but also a chance to build confidence and showcase her talent.
“Here I can perform before everyone with confidence, to showcase my hidden talent. Also, who knows when I’ll get to perform before the President again,” she said.
For Raisya, this opportunity was also the right momentum to thank President Prabowo for the People’s School, which she said has given children the chance to rebuild their hopes and pursue their dreams.
“To Mr. President, Mr. Prabowo Subianto, thank you for establishing the People’s School, allowing us to rise again and start dreaming again,” she said.
Similar stories were also shared by Jessie. Being at the palace and performing at this year’s commemoration ceremony as part of the choir was an experience she never could have imagined.
“I never imagined I would be at this point, of performing in the palace. Through the People’s School, I am able to be here. It is all thanks to God’s blessings, and of course, I am extremely happy,” Jessie said.
This experience, Jessie said, was proof that an opportunity can pave the way for someone to continue chasing their dreams.
“Mr. President, thank you so much. It is because of you that I was able to go back to school. It is also thanks to you that I can be here today,” she said. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (FI/MMB)
