From Bawean Island, a Boarding School Student Raises the Indonesian Flag in Sangkapura

In the midst of the disciplined routine of religious study and learning at the Tsamratul Afkar Islamic boarding school on Bawean Island, 15-year-old Shofiya Kartika has found another avenue for service: the Pasukan Pengibar Bendera Pusaka (Paskibraka), or the national flag-hoisting troop.

Shofi, as she is known, was chosen to represent Madrasah Aliyah (MA) Darussalam Daun in Sangkapura. She will proudly stand among the Paskibraka members during the flag-raising ceremony for the 81st anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia's Independence, held at the Sangkapura town square. For Shofi, this opportunity transcends merely wearing a uniform; it represents a significant personal achievement and a source of pride for someone from an island community located far from the Gresik regency's administrative center.

Bawean Island, situated in the Java Sea, is part of the Gresik Regency in East Java. Its geographical isolation shapes a unique way of life for its inhabitants. It is within this distinct environment that Shofi grew up and pursued her education. Her daily life is deeply intertwined with the pesantren, where she studies under Kiai Maskum, balancing her religious education with secular schooling.

The discipline and religious foundation provided by the pesantren have equipped Shofi for various activities. When the opportunity arose to try out for the Paskibraka, she bravely seized it. Her selection to represent her madrasah in the national independence day ceremony is the culmination of rigorous training and a commitment to discipline. "We trained for a month at the town square beforehand. We formed the Garuda symbol formation," Shofi told Republika.co.id on Monday (August 17, 2026). This experience bridges the traditional world of pesantren education with the spirit of national pride.

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Before this, we trained for a month at the town square. We formed the Garuda symbol formation.