Freeport Children: The Next Generation Full of Enthusiasm and Creativity
Children living in Tembagapura, despite being far from the bustling city center, demonstrate extraordinary potential in various fields, including art and music. This environment, which might be considered remote, turns out to be fertile ground for the growth of diverse interests and talents. The Freeport children's drum recital (May 24) is one concrete example that highlights their musical talent. Their ability to play instruments like the drums demonstrates not only diligent practice but also high enthusiasm and creativity.
Drum lessons, initiated by the children's parents based on their interests, are held once a week, lasting approximately 30 to 40 minutes. There, the children learn according to their individual capacities and abilities.
Toward the end of the school year, the parents and their drum teachers held the first drum recital in Tembagapura. The main goal of this drum recital was to build the children's confidence when performing in public. "This recital also shows that playing the drums can be fun," said one parent.
Adina, a fourth-grade girl drummer at the Yayasan Pendidikan Jayawijaya (YPJ), was one of the drummers who performed at the recital last May. "Adina has been learning drums for a semester. "Learning drums is so much fun," she said, her eyes sparkling. "During the recital, I played the song'Yellow' and 'Best Day of My Life," she continued proudly.
Ernest, who has been learning drums for a year, delivered a stunning performance of 'The Reason' by Hoobastank. The parents and community of Tembagapura, who attended at the Atrium Shopping Family, were seen enjoying the song, singing and dancing along to Ernest's performance. Although he aspires to be an engineer, Ernest wants his drumming skills to be a valuable asset in the future. Perhaps for church service or other positive activities, he said.
Similar to Ernest, Alfredo also wants to channel his drumming skills into church activities and other positive causes. Alfredo, who is now in his first year of junior high school, has been learning drums since his second grade. "Playing the drums is unique and challenging, not just about banging things," Alfredo said. "Learning a new song is difficult at first, but if you keep practicing, you'll definitely get it," he added confidently. Alfredo has high hopes of teaching drumming to children someday.
This year's youngest drum recital participant was Benaiah, who has only been learning the drums for three months. 
However, his enthusiasm and agility rivaled those of the more experienced drummers. Ben (6), who is passionate about music, confidently performed the song Baby Shark. "Besides the fact that Ben loves music, we also want to develop his hand-eye coordination, as well as the flexibility and strength of his finger muscles, or fine motor skills, which are essential for writing," said Ben's mother when asked why she chose drum lessons.
It's truly remarkable to see how positive activities, starting from small initiatives like this, can serve as a barometer of commitment from various parties. This demonstrates a serious effort to ensure every child can grow and develop optimally. This aligns with the spirit of National Children's Day, which emphasizes the importance of facilitating and appreciating the potential of every Indonesian child.
PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) consistently demonstrates its commitment to supporting the development of the younger generation, including children living near its operational areas. One way to achieve this is through the Jayawijaya Education Foundation (YPJ) and the Tomawin Dormitory. PTFI provides adequate educational facilities to ensure that the children of employees and the surrounding community have access to quality education. Furthermore, PTFI actively facilitates the development of talents and interests, as evidenced by its support for this drum recital.
The positive activities undertaken by this community are part of efforts to improve the quality of life of employees, a key company commitment. These efforts go beyond academics to include character and creativity development, preparing them to become resilient individuals ready to contribute to society. PTFI even strives to bring young Papuan talent to the international stage, demonstrating the company's ambitious vision for nurturing the next generation. (read 18 PFA Student Depart for Gothia Cup 2025) Happy National Children Day, July 23.
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