In a bid to strengthen educational access among grassroots communities, PT Pertamina (Persero), through its Social and Environmental Responsibility (TJSL) initiative and implemented by Pertamina Foundation, has awarded scholarships to 44 individuals identified as “local heroes” or their family members. These local heroes are active members from communities supported by Pertamina, who have received training and mentoring to build their capacities in renewable energy, energy independence, and community empowerment across various regions.
Rudi Ariffianto, Vice President of CSR & SMEPP Management at Pertamina, emphasized that this scholarship initiative is a recognition of the vital contributions made by these individuals.
“These scholarships are our way of appreciating local heroes who have been at the forefront of executing Pertamina’s TJSL programs. They are not just beneficiaries; they are agents of change who pass on the benefits and help build self-reliant communities around them,” Rudi stated in an official release.
Further explaining the initiative, Yulius S. Bulo, Director of Operations at Pertamina Foundation, highlighted that the scholarships cater to a broad range of educational levels—from elementary to university students.
“The recipients include 33 university students, six high school or vocational school students, four junior high school students, and one elementary school student,” Bulo detailed.
He added that the assistance covers tuition fees (SPP/UKT), school-related expenses, and living costs. Moreover, these scholarship recipients are encouraged to participate in environmentally-focused initiatives through the “Aksi Sobat Bumi” (Friends of the Earth Action) program.
One of the standout beneficiaries is Aqila Raysha Muchtar, the youngest among the awardees. A sixth-grader at SDN 2 Sukajaya, Aqila has earned the title of local hero under PHE Jambi Merang, part of Pertamina’s Subholding Upstream Regional Sumatera. She gained recognition for her proactive efforts in promoting eco-friendly lifestyles in her community in Bayung Lencir, Musi Banyuasin District, South Sumatra.
Aqila, along with her peers, regularly facilitates training, mentoring, and outreach programs for the local Environmental Awareness Group and fellow students. Their activities include proper waste sorting and environmental education.
Due to her outstanding involvement, Aqila was named an Adiwiyata School Ambassador and received the 2024 Community Involvement and Development (CID) Upstream Award for “Best Local Hero” from PT Pertamina Hulu Energi (PHE).
“Thank you, Pertamina, for your continuous support that motivates me to achieve more and protect the environment,” Aqila expressed gratefully.
On the corporate side, Fadjar Djoko Santoso, Vice President of Corporate Communication at Pertamina, shared his hopes that this scholarship will further fuel the motivation of these community influencers.
“Pertamina’s Local Heroes play a crucial role in driving change in their surroundings, bringing positive impact to the environment, local communities, and society at large. We hope this support will strengthen their commitment and inspire others around them,” he concluded.