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Tue, 25 Mar 2025
JIMBARAN – The 2025 Cultural Parade at Widiatmika School was more than just a festive celebration. It served as a reflection of humanity’s responsibility toward environmental balance, cultural preservation, and sustainable living. More importantly, the event demonstrated Widiatmika School’s commitment to nurturing academically capable students with strong character.
This was conveyed by the Head of South Kuta Sub-District, I Ketut Gede Arta, who officially opened the parade, which carried the theme Amuk Kaning Pertiwi (Nature’s Wrath). According to Arta, Widiatmika is an educational institution that continuously innovates by blending modern values with local wisdom. The Cultural Parade stands as tangible proof of this ongoing effort.
“Widiatmika has always been a pioneer in doing great things. It’s no surprise that the school continues to attract high-quality students. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I actually wanted to enroll my own child here, but the quota was already full—even before public school admissions opened. That alone shows that Widiatmika truly produces students who are both high-achieving and of strong character,” said Arta.
The 2025 Cultural Parade was designed not only as a cultural celebration but also as an educational platform to promote environmental awareness and unity among students and teachers. The event encouraged reflection on the harmony between nature and culture in everyday life.
This year’s program featured a theatrical performance titled Baruna Murti and a parade of ogoh-ogoh statues creatively crafted from recycled materials. Through this initiative, students were not only introduced to cultural heritage but also encouraged to care more deeply about environmental sustainability.
In his remarks, Arta emphasized that a nation can only progress if it fosters a sense of fanaticism toward its own identity and culture. He argued that such fanaticism is not something negative, but rather a proven driver of progress in countries like Japan and India.
“Look at Japan and India. They have become successful nations because they remain loyal to their culture and values. The same goes for China, which has developed rapidly thanks to its strong belief in the power of its own people,” he stated.
He also noted the irony in how many Indonesians, despite being modern-minded, tend to prioritize foreign products over domestic ones. In contrast, he praised Widiatmika School for being a consistent example of how education can preserve and celebrate local culture through initiatives like the Cultural Parade.
Furthermore, Arta stressed that national progress is not only driven by cultural pride but also by mastery of science and technology, discipline, and respect for the rule of law.
“There are many intelligent people in Indonesia, but unfortunately, they lack discipline and disregard the law. Schools that are able to instill knowledge, discipline, and strong character will produce future leaders. Widiatmika students, 20 or 30 years from now, should become great leaders of Bali. My deepest gratitude to the teachers who are shaping them today,” he added.
He also expressed appreciation for every education level under the Widiatmika umbrella, from early childhood to senior and vocational high schools, which have consistently produced high-achieving graduates. This is evident from the number of alumni who have been accepted into top universities in Indonesia.
Through the 2025 Cultural Parade, Widiatmika School has once again demonstrated its role as an institution that not only excels in academic achievement but also cultivates character, environmental awareness, and a deep love for culture.
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