Residents of RW 01, Panggang Island Urban Village, North Thousand Islands Sub-district, Thousand Islands, held various competitions participated in by children and adults from seven local RTs.

Head of Competition Organizing Committee, Marlina, said that the event is held annually by local residents to enliven the Indonesian Independence Day.

"We want all residents to feel the joy as well as to foster love for their homeland through these competitions," she expressed, Monday (8/18).

Marlina explained, there were seven competitions held, including eating chocolate without hands, sarong race, musical chairs, flour relay, kerupuk-eating contest, taking rubber bands in sago.

"The competitions lasted two days, participated by representatives from each RT, including children, teenagers, and mothers," she said.

She added that the winners would be announced this afternoon, after all competitions were completed. The prizes varied, ranging from food and beverage parcels, school supplies, and household equipment.

"Although simple, these prizes are a form of appreciation and to motivate the participants," she mentioned.

Panggang Island Urban Village Acting Head, Muhammad Nuralim, expressed appreciation to RT/RW administrators who organized the competitions to enliven the Independence Day.

"Through this activity, the spirit of nationalism, love for the homeland, and patriotism can be fostered. Moreover, community ties become stronger, thus minimizing the potential for conflicts," he emphasized.

Meanwhile, one of the residents of RT 07/01, Panggang Island Urban Village, Rohma (38), said that she was very enthusiastic and excited to participate in the competitions.

She shared that the lively competitions helped build a stronger sense of togetherness within the coastal community.

"This is a people's entertainment, as well as a reminder of the importance of instilling love for the homeland and pride in Indonesia's independence," she remarked.