A total of 154 people wrote messages of hope and dreams for Indonesian children at the Save the Children booth during Festival Anak Indonesia Hebat at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, Jakarta Timur, on Tuesday (22/7). On that occasion, both children and adults enthusiastically wrote their hopes on small pieces of paper and attached them to the Tree of Hopes.
Various messages were written, including one from the wife of the Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia, Selvi Gibran Rakabuming, who expressed her hope for Indonesian children to be healthy and talented.
“Keep growing into healthy, talented children with noble character and love for the homeland,” wrote Selvi in purple ink on pink paper.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu’ti, shared his encouragement for Indonesian children.
“Study diligently, stay motivated, become a great generation,” wrote Mu’ti.
Several school students also wrote their aspirations, such as becoming pilots or being accepted into their dream universities.
“I want to become a pilot so I can take my parents on an umrah pilgrimage.”
“I want everyone to love me. I want to show everyone that I’m more than what they think.”
“I hope Indonesia becomes a developed country.”
“I hope to be a better person and get accepted into the University of Indonesia or IPB. Aamiin.”
Save the Children took part in Festival Anak Indonesia Hebat, which was organized by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education and Solidaritas Perempuan untuk Indonesia (SERUNI) of the Merah Putih Cabinet—a group consisting of the wives of ministers and vice ministers. This activity was held to celebrate National Children’s Day, observed every July 23.
The Save the Children booth showcased information about the KREASI Program or Kolaborasi untuk Edukasi Anak Indonesia, along with various interactive materials and audiovisual displays, including the Tree of Hopes which drew significant interest from festival visitors.
In her remarks, Selvi called on all parties to create safe and comfortable spaces for children.
“Guide them and set good examples. Support and fight for the fulfillment of children’s rights for the sake of their future,” said Selvi.
Previously, SERUNI’s Head of Division 2, Masmidah Abdul Mu’ti, reported that the event was attended by children from early childhood education (PAUD) to vocational high schools (SMK), as well as special needs schools (SLB) and community learning centers (PKBM), totaling around 440 children. In addition, the event was also attended by representatives from ministries and agencies related to child protection, partners, Dharma Wanita Persatuan (DWP), and community groups, bringing the total estimated number of participants to 657 people.