Two high school students from Papua expressed their pride and excitement in participating in Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day celebrations as members of the elite national flag-raising troop, Pasukan Pengibar Bendera Pusaka (Paskibraka), alongside President Prabowo Subianto at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta. Representing Papua Pegunungan Province is Franciscus Sakfiris Pahabolisage, a student at SMA Negeri 1 Wamena, while Stincek Laramiapa represents Papua Tengah Province from SMA Negeri 1 Nabire. Franciscus conveyed his happiness at the opportunity to be part of the celebration, expressing gratitude to the President for selecting them to participate. He recounted the arduous selection process, highlighting the physical training as a significant challenge for him. Stincek, on the other hand, affirmed her commitment to delivering her best performance during the flag-raising ceremony, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and unity among the Paskibraka members. Despite feeling nervous about performing before the President, both students expressed their excitement and joy in being able to represent their provinces and meet peers from across the country during the training period. They eagerly anticipate the Independence Day celebration on August 17 and are determined to make their country proud through their efforts and dedication.
