10 Finalists for 2026 BSA Ready to Make Their Case Today
Ten subdistrict heads shortlisted for the 2026 Benyamin S Award are scheduled to present their flagship programmes in person to a panel of judges today, Thursday (15 October).
Ahead of the presentations, the subdistrict heads said they were ready after receiving public-speaking training organised on Tuesday (13 October) by the Jakarta Regional Cooperation Bureau (Biro KSD) in partnership with ParagonCorp. The practical training aimed to hone local leaders’ ability to turn residents’ aspirations into persuasive and substantive presentations.
The training covered topics including presence and mindset, message structure and storytelling techniques. These communication skills were intended to help the subdistrict heads present ideas and leadership initiatives focused on problem-solving.
The finalists who took part were the subdistrict heads of Kebon Sirih, Cilandak Barat, Kebon Baru, Tamansari, Sukabumi Utara, Srengseng, Utan Kayu Selatan, Malaka Sari, Kelapa Gading Timur and Pulau Panggang.
Henny Mahrojah, head of Kebon Sirih, said she was enthusiastic after taking part in the training. She said the material had given her a new perspective on delivering a public presentation.
“It was enjoyable and very useful. I had not realised there were basic things that needed to be considered in a presentation. We have to be able to tell a story so the audience and judges are interested in what we present. That is what I will apply in today’s presentation,” Henny said.
Abdul Malik Raharusun, head of Tamansari, agreed, saying the training and coaching sessions had given participants an important foundation for appearing confidently before the judges.
He said participants took part in interactive simulations during the training, including dialogue, group discussions and exercises in building teamwork.
“Public speaking has been both an experience and a resource for us as we prepare to present. The training sessions were very enjoyable because we practised using our imagination, engaging in dialogue and discussing things together,” he said.
The training is expected to help the subdistrict heads convince the judges that their proposed programmes genuinely address the needs of residents in their respective areas.
Communication trainer and mentor Omar Danishwara said local leaders should regard communication skills as interconnected with other capabilities. He said these skills were important, particularly when subdistrict heads were entrusted with leadership responsibilities.
“A leader ultimately has to look at many things through their respective skills, including communication — for example, public speaking or effective communication based on problem-solving,” Omar said.
He said another aim of the training was to help the subdistrict heads communicate their programmes to the public.
“How the programme is communicated to the public will determine whether it can be implemented properly and brought to life collectively, while ensuring its impact is sustainable,” he said.
After today’s presentation stage, the 2026 Benyamin S Award process will move to its final presentation round. The winning subdistricts are scheduled to be announced on 30 October.
The Benyamin S Award is a Jakarta provincial government programme run by the Regional Cooperation Bureau within the Regional Secretariat. It recognises subdistricts committed to making Jakarta clean, comfortable, beautiful and prosperous.