Foto: From contemporary-traditional fusion dance contest to Nusantara-themed fashion show, Ulilin locals are seen enjoying the district’s Independence Day celebration
MERAUKE – Two TSE Group companies — PT Berkat Cipta Abadi (BCA) and PT Papua Agro Lestari (PAL) — took Independence Day to the next level with fun games and activities at their operational location in Ulilin District, Merauke Regency.
BCA’s celebration was centered at Kigorun Public Elementary (SDN Kigorun) and YPK Harapan Selil Elementary (SD YPK Harapan Selil), with events ranging from cultural performances to competitions like a contemporary-traditional fusion dance contest, a Nusantara-themed fashion show, and a sack race.
These events were met with enthusiasm from students — and, as one Kigorun teacher noted, brought the exciting atmosphere of Independence Day to rural South Papua.
“On behalf of the school, [I’d like to say] we’re really delighted we can take part in this. Thanks to PT BCA, we can feel what people in big cities feel during Independence Day, although we are in rural, remote South Papua. The kids are happy as well,” said Maylda Rosari Sambang at the event on Wednesday (8/12/2026).
Meanwhile, PAL held a game that highlighted the tradition of local indigenous communities: archery. This activity saw participation from indigenous community members and clan members from surrounding areas.
One of the winners said it had special meaning for the locals, as it reintroduced a longstanding practice.
Photo: Participants range from elementary students, teachers, to indigenous and non-indigenous locals
“We’re so excited about participating because archery is part of our lives and traditions. We’re grateful that PT PAL brought back this game for [this year’s] Independence Day. This means a lot to us,” said Oven Mbaipa.
BCA and PAL’s involvement in local celebrations shows their efforts to build relationships with the people they serve while protecting their cultural values.
“We want to be present for these communities as a member, not only as a business entity,” TSE Group’s General Manager, Daniel Sim Ayomi, said. “Through these events we hold for Independence Day, we seek to strengthen social bonds and preserve the cultural values of South Papua. We hope to have these events again going forward and bring joy to everyone.”
TSE Group aims to maintain the camaraderie built during both events to better connect with the locals. By directly involving community members and promoting local cultural values, the company hopes to ensure local wisdom and nationalism can thrive — and that benefits are felt by the community members themselves. (PR)
