Paskibraka Extends Training Hours at the Palace

Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated that the Paskibraka squad has received additional training time to adapt to the different conditions of the palace grounds compared to their previous training locations. One significant adjustment involves the thickness of the grass on the palace lawn, which affects the members’ technical habits. “There is an adjustment because usually, after training for a long time, they are used to a place that is different from the current one,” Prasetyo said on Wednesday (12/8). He explained that the members were previously accustomed to training on fields with harder grass. In contrast, the grass at the palace is relatively thick, requiring them to adapt their movements and techniques. This adjustment prompted the trainers to request additional practice sessions, which have been approved, including sessions outside the previously established schedule. The Paskibraka members are permitted to independently extend their training hours, both for partial rehearsals and full dress rehearsals, to become more familiar with the palace field conditions before their main duty. Amid the preparations, Prasetyo also highlighted the presence of a Paskibraka member from a ‘Sekolah Rakyat’ (People’s School). He mentioned that President Prabowo Subianto likely does not yet know the details, as a specific report has not been made. Prasetyo admitted he was surprised and proud upon learning that a participant from the Sekolah Rakyat had successfully passed the national-level Paskibraka selection, which involved candidates from 38 provinces. He noted that this achievement proves that opportunities are open to everyone, regardless of economic background, as long as they have competence and a strong work ethic. He further remarked that being a national Paskibraka member is not an easy task, requiring continuous physical training and mental preparation to perform before the entire nation. He called on the public to appreciate the hard work of the Paskibraka and all involved parties, rather than focusing solely on shortcomings or imperfections.