On that occasion, the President encouraged the students not to feel inferior about their backgrounds.
“They love their parents. Their parents work hard. Their parents have yet to truly enjoy the fruits of independence,” Prabowo said in a statement released by the Ministry of Social Affairs on Saturday.
He emphasized that such conditions are what drive him and other national leaders to continue striving to deliver true independence for all Indonesians.
“I have seen glimmers of hope,” he said.
“Dear children, respect your parents. Love your parents. Kiss your mother’s feet. Never feel ashamed just because your father works hard,” he added.
President Prabowo also urged the students not to feel sad about their parents’ current financial struggles.
“Honor your parents. Love your parents. Respect your teachers,” he said.
The President also shared a moment of surprise when he stepped out of his car and was greeted by the Sekolah Rakyat marching band.
“We are seeing brightness in children who might have once worried about their future. I truly entrust these children to the care of their teachers,” he stated.
As part of the welcoming ceremony, students from Sekolah Rakyat performed in a red-and-white uniform, symbolizing the colors of the Indonesian flag. The marching band played just before the President entered the JIExpo ballroom, where the event took place.
Before President Prabowo delivered his speech, a student choir recited a poem dedicated to him, accompanied by music.
In a separate segment, Sofia Rorista Angel, a student from Sekolah Rakyat Menengah Pertama 19 Efata in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), expressed her gratitude to President Prabowo through a recorded video message.
Sofia said that the existence of Sekolah Rakyat had transformed her life from one of limitations to one filled with light and hope.
“Thank you, Mr. President, for caring about us, the marginalized children from the East. I know you are busy running the country, but you still made time to ensure we can go to school. For me, you are like a parent who lifted me from darkness and placed me into the light,” Sofia said.
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Translator: Hana, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Arie Novarina
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