Indonesia
#BeraniMengubah for Better Life
It was quite early in the morning, and Jakarta has not fully awakened, on Sunday October 28. However, around 150 people had gathered at the Hotel Indonesia circle. They followed the Youth Pledge Day commemoration organized by Coca Cola Indonesia (CCI).
The memorial service took place differently than formal ceremonies in schools. It was more lively because there’s some direct actions. Some youth waived Indonesian red-and-white flag. Kids from Sanggar Anak Akar sang patriotic songs. When a movie was played, some people began to tear up.
The most tangible direct actions of the ceremony was people immediately picked up trash along the MH Thamrin Street and Hotel Indonesia circle. Some hawkers and and some passersby became aware to the activity and they became embarrassed to litter.
Superkids, the Youth Pledge in 1928 could change the people’s struggle towards the independence state of Indonesian in 1945. Now, youth is needed to change for the better life. To change is not easy task. It takes more than just intentions, plans, desires or support from others. But, some people succeed to be a precursor of change.
Yusman Firmansyah (Umen) succeed through his idea of Ants Operation. Like the ants, his idea is small but it bring great changes. “I invite my friends to throw trash in trash bin and to pick up trash from the surrounding. In that way, other people will follow our behavior,” said Umen.
Ants Operation is done to attract the attention of many people. “I use twitter, FB and website to invite. The result can be massive. On March and July, we have Ant Operations around Hotel Indonesia circle and Cibodas area,” he said.
Ants Operation is one of three winners of #BeraniMengubah program supported by CCI last year. It won the best idea for the Environment category. Jessica Farollan, with the idea of Smile for the Future, won Lifestyle and Health category. Muhammad Amrullah, with the idea of making rap for kids, was the winner of Arts category. Amrullah took Dilt Foundation, which has halfway-house for street kids, to actualize his idea. So, Kojek Rap Betawi by Amrullah is performed in the ceremony.
CCI hold the similar activity for this year. The contest of the best idea for change is held from 28 October to November 28. “The three best ideas will be announced in December 2012,” said Andrew Hallatu the media relations officer of CCI.
INDAH
Photos by Opsem and CCI
