Prabowo urges Sekolah Rakyat' students embody diligence, integrity

Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto on Sunday urged students, particularly those in the tuition-free Sekolah Rakyat (People’s School) program, to prioritize character development, diligence, and academic discipline as a path toward improving their families' economic well-being.

​During a visit to a Sekolah Rakyat middle school in Bali’s Tabanan District, Prabowo emphasized the importance of parental respect and personal integrity.

​"We are all working hard. Students, you must study with discipline and obey your teachers. Always love your parents because they are working hard for you," the President said in remarks observed online from Jakarta.

​Prabowo highlighted the necessity of cultivating good character, urging students to remain polite, maintain a positive attitude, and refrain from speaking ill of others. He noted that such qualities are fundamental to long-term success.

​Addressing the issue of bullying, the President shared a message of fortitude, referencing an interaction with student Gede Bagus Abimanyu, who described experiencing harassment before joining the program.

​"It is not just you; I often face mockery, even today. Even the president is often scoffed at. It is okay, as the most important thing is that we have firm and good hearts. Let us respond to mockery politely," Prabowo said, adding that responding to criticism with wisdom can foster personal strength.

"Do not lose heart."

​The President also called for an accelerated expansion of the Sekolah Rakyat program in Bali.

Noting that the province currently hosts only one such school dedicated to children from economically disadvantaged families, Prabowo directed government officials to prioritize growth.

​"We must add schools as soon as possible," he said, pledging central government support for district leaders in identifying and preparing sites for future development.

Translator: Prisca T, Tegar Nurfitra

Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono

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