MPR Praises Two Schools for Rejecting a Re-run of the Smart Competition Final

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Chairman of the MPR Socialisation Agency, Abraham Liyanto, said he was proud of the attitude of SMAN 1 Sambas and SMAN 1 Pontianak, both of which rejected the re-run of the final round of the ‘Four Pillars’ Smart Competition at the West Kalimantan (Kalbar) provincial level in 2026.

The reason, according to Abraham, is that the attitude of the two schools reflects the values they want to socialise through the smart competition.

“I responded to the response of these two high schools with great pride. Because actually they have implemented what they learned in the 4 Pillars lessons,” said Abraham to Kompas.com, Sunday (17/5/2026).

Abraham also reminded about the purpose of the Socialisation of the 4 Pillars.

For example, holding a smart competition for young people, because it is considered more interesting than ordinary socialisation.

Then, according to Abraham, preparing young people to understand life in the nation and state correctly.

“Encouraging young people to understand the values of democracy, tolerance, unity, and the constitution. Forming students’ character who are nationalistic and have integrity. Cultivating a culture of critical thinking, teamwork and sportsmanship in competition,” he added.

Previously, the MPR decided to re-run the final round of the 4 Pillars Smart Competition at the West Kalimantan provincial level in 2026, which was participated by three schools, including SMAN 1 Sambas and SMAN 1 Pontianak.

SMAN 1 Sambas emerged as the winner, but the final match was highlighted by the public because there were errors from the jury and the host that disadvantaged SMAN 1 Pontianak and benefited SMAN 1 Sambas.

SMAN 1 Pontianak emphasised that their attitude in questioning the implementation of the final was not to attack or undermine the credibility of the institution, committee, or any individual.

The school stated that the effort was solely to obtain confirmation and clarification in order to create a transparent, objective and accountable competition mechanism.

“SMAN 1 Pontianak does not intend to annul the results of the competition, but only to get clarity on the points raised,” wrote a representative of the school.

The SMAN 1 Sambas side believes that their students have competed according to the rules set by the committee and agreed upon by all participants.

SMAN 1 Sambas also strongly denied allegations of cheating, bribery, and nepotism and prejudice in setting up the victory, which were directed at them.

“SMAN 1 Sambas rejects the re-run of the West Kalimantan provincial final. We hope that all parties can restrain themselves from respecting the ongoing process and prioritise a wise, objective and fair resolution,” said SMAN 1 Sambas.