POSKOTASUMATERA.COM – MARANCAR – An atmosphere of solemnity and a spirit of togetherness marked the commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia in Marancar District, South Tapanuli Regency, on Sunday (August 17, 2025). Held at the grounds of SMPN 1 Marancar, the event drew thousands of residents, students, religious and community leaders, and government officials, all displaying great enthusiasm.
Amidst the festive red-and-white decorations, the presence of the Batangtoru Hydropower Project—represented by PT North Sumatra Hydro Energy (NSHE), PT Sinohydro, and PT SAE—drew special attention. Beyond their role as renewable energy developers, they mingled and bonded with the community, sharing in the collective spirit of the people of Marancar.
The ceremony began with the raising of the Red and White flag by the Paskibra (flag-raising) team, composed of top students from SMPN 1 Marancar. The Marancar District Head served as the ceremony inspector, while residents filled the field with a sense of pride. The presence of company representatives among the citizens underscored the message that true development cannot occur in isolation; rather, it must grow in harmony with the community’s social life.
Many viewed the participation of the Batangtoru Hydropower Project as tangible proof of its commitment to social responsibility. For the community, this moment was more than just a ceremony; it signaled that the business sector could present a more human face—one that connects on emotional, cultural, and national levels. Following the ceremony, company representatives joined in the festivities, participating in traditional games and simple entertainment that are hallmarks of the Independence Day celebration.
“For us, independence is not merely about remembering the past, but about filling the present with concrete contributions. Our presence in Marancar today reflects both our gratitude and our commitment to ensuring that clean energy development goes hand-in-hand with community solidarity and local culture,” said Arnida, a representative from PT NSHE, warmly.
The company’s presence was warmly appreciated by the local community. Amiruddin Harahap, a community leader in Marancar, expressed his pride. “We are delighted that a major company like the Batangtoru Hydropower Plant (PLTA Batangtoru) is not only here to generate energy but also actively engages with the community. It makes us feel closer and valued,” he said.
Meanwhile, Siti Nurhaliza, an 11th-grade student at SMPN 1 Marancar and a member of the flag-raising squad (Paskibra), could not hide her emotion. “It feels extraordinary to be able to hoist the Red and White flag during such a significant event. Moreover, having support from various parties—including the company joining us—inspires us and shows that our efforts as students are recognized,” she remarked.
A similar sentiment was shared by Rahmat Simanjuntak, a local youth leader. “We hope this collaboration does not end with the ceremony but extends into the fields of education, social welfare, and the economy. That way, the benefits of development can truly be felt by the people of Marancar,” he said hopefully.
The commemoration of Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day in Marancar ultimately became more than just a flag-raising ceremony. It transformed into a space for togetherness, where the community and the company came together in the spirit of the Red and White. Through this moment, PLTA Batangtoru—alongside PT NSHE, PT Sinohydro, and PT SAE—successfully demonstrated a more human-centric face of development: one that focuses not only on electricity and infrastructure but also on togetherness, mutual respect, and a shared future. (*)