SERANG — Cendekia Daarul Muhsinin Islamic Boarding School (CDM) in Walantaka, Serang, successfully hosted a lively celebration marking the 81st anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence under the theme “Free Through Achievement, United in Togetherness.”
Held from August 15 to 17, 2026, the annual event reflected the boarding school’s continued commitment to fostering patriotism and love for the nation among its students. A wide range of educational competitions brought together students and teaching staff in an atmosphere of unity and camaraderie.
CDM Headmaster Benny Al Farisi expressed his gratitude for the smooth running of the entire series of educational competitions. He said the annual celebration was designed not only to develop resilience and a never-give-up attitude among the students, but also to strengthen bonds of fellowship throughout the school community.
“The Independence Day celebration is not merely a festive competition. It is also an educational platform for students to understand the true meaning of independence”, on Monday (August, 17, 2026).
The celebrations began on Saturday, August 15, with an opening ceremony at the school’s main field, attended by the asatidz (teachers) in a disciplined formation. The students’ competitive spirit was on full display in a series of sporting events, including futsal, a marathon, balloon volleyball and switch-ball matches, all of which drew enthusiastic participation.
The festivities continued on Sunday, August 16, with a variety of skill-based competitions, including balloon running, colouring, flour relay races and the futsal final. CDM Foundation Chairman Ksatria Putra Nugraha also expressed his appreciation for the successful implementation of the educational competitions.
“The foundation will always give its full support to every programme organised by the boarding school that aims to develop the students’ positive character,” Ksatria said.
The celebrations reached their peak on Monday, August 17, with an Independence Day ceremony and the reading of the Proclamation of Independence led by CDM Foundation Trustee KH. Deddy Djuandi. Traditional competitions, including cracker-eating contests and bakiak team races, added to the festive atmosphere before the celebrations concluded with an evening cultural performance.
The school expressed optimism that the event would help nurture high-achieving Qur’anic generations as part of its broader vision of building a united and sovereign nation with a prosperous people and a progressive Indonesia.
By reinforcing the values of struggle and sacrifice exemplified by Indonesia’s national heroes, Benny also delivered an important message to the students.
“We hope that through this celebration, our students will develop a strong sense of sportsmanship and togetherness, while also embracing the perseverance and determination demonstrated by the heroes of our nation,” Benny said.
