TIMES BAJAWA, MALANG – In a heartfelt initiative aimed at fostering Indonesian values among the children of Indonesian migrant workers, two lecturers from Universitas Negeri Malang (UM) - Dr. Ninik Setiyowati and M.Si. Jati Fatmawiyati - collaborated with Dr. Siti Muntomimah of Universitas PGRI Kanjuruhan Malang.

Together, they organized a community service program at Sanggar Bimbingan Sentul in Kuala Lumpur from August 11-18, 2024, with the theme "Loving Indonesia through Psychoeducation on Pancasila Character and Moral Development."

The program was enriched by the participation of UM psychology students, including Roni, Nur Hafif, Frisca, and Laila, who played active roles in engaging with the children.

The team not only taught Pancasila principles theoretically but also introduced interactive sessions featuring games, discussions, and creative art activities that embedded Pancasila values into the daily lives of these young participants.

Dr. Ninik Setiyowati, a driving force behind the program, shared, "Our goal is to help these children, many of whom have been born and raised outside Indonesia, nurture a sense of love for their homeland. Through understanding Pancasila, they can connect deeply with their roots, appreciating it as the nation’s ideological foundation."

Adding to this sentiment, Dr. Siti Muntomimah emphasized the importance of unity and pride in Indonesian identity.

"We not only introduce Pancasila values, but we also aim to foster national pride and a strong sense of identity for these children, no matter where they are," she stated.

The timing of the program added extra significance, coinciding with Indonesia’s Independence Day on August 17. Festivities included simple competitions, which brought excitement and a celebratory spirit to the children as they learned about their heritage.

This inspiring initiative showcased the power of collaboration between UM and Universitas PGRI Kanjuruhan. By uniting for community service, these institutions exemplify the importance of academic cooperation in spreading Indonesian values internationally. Such programs highlight the potential for ongoing impacts on the young generation of Indonesians abroad.

Reflecting on the program's success, Jati Fatmawiyati noted, "The dedication of our educators and students in this program was inspiring. Their contributions help these young Indonesians cultivate a love for Indonesia through a meaningful understanding of Pancasila in their everyday lives." (*)