Happy Indonesia’s 78th Independence Day!🇮🇩
As I stand on yet another Independence Day, I find myself reflecting upon the incredible journey that has brought me to this point. It began with my direct involvement in health development at the district level in the earliest days of my career, then stepped up the game to the provincial level. Throughout, I have come to acknowledge the multitude of challenges that lay ahead in our pursuit of a robust health development system in Indonesia.
Among the memories that lingered, I vividly remember a moment when we did CPNS training, it was midnight, and we were told to kiss the Indonesia flag while the song “Indonesia Pusaka” was played. I cried, a lot. Those familiar faces full of hope crossed my mind, the people whom I met in Puskesmas and Posyandu while I did my service. It was an overwhelming feeling, I was in denial of this path, but at the same time, I felt like it was a call.
Now, at @harvardchansph, I find myself privileged to partake in an invaluable learning process, thanks to @lpdp_ri . Engaging with the world’s foremost experts, both professors and colleagues from across the globe, has enriched my understanding and broadened my horizons. These interactions, the rigorous academic discourse, and the collaborative atmosphere have all fueled my growth.
Yet, this journey has not been without its moments of doubt and despair. There were moments when I felt overwhelmed and even cried out of frustration during and after classes, trying to understand the big problems my country is dealing with. I felt a sense of helplessness, as if Indonesia is lagging behind, and yet, within me, I held onto a bit of hope. I began to sense a purpose behind the privilege of studying here, a purpose tied to the people.
The journey ahead may be tough, but it is a journey that I will undertake with a heart full of hope and determination.
It’s still August 17 in Boston, far away from home, Happy 78th Independence Day, Indonesia! You are the driving force behind my pursuit of higher education here at Harvard. Let’s continue to nurture this hope. Wait for me, to bring powerful ideas for a healthier Indonesia!
