Supporting the Development of Quality Human Resources from an Early Age as Part of Asta Cita, PT KPB Holds an HIV/AIDS Awareness Program at SMA Negeri 8 Balikpapan.

Tuesday, 18 February 2025

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) remain a serious threat to the younger generation. Without proper understanding, the risk of transmission increases, endangering their health and future. Recognizing this urgency, PT Kilang Pertamina Balikpapan (PT KPB) held an HIV/AIDS awareness session at the auditorium of SMA Negeri 8 Balikpapan as part of the 2025 National Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Month on Friday (14/02).

This initiative aimed to equip students with accurate knowledge about the dangers of HIV/AIDS, transmission methods, symptoms, and preventive measures to protect themselves and those around them. The event was officially opened by Kurniawan, VP of System Completion at PT KPB, and attended by PT KPB Management representatives, school principals, teachers, and 80 students from grades 10 to 12, including representatives from the Student Council (OSIS), School Health Unit (UKS), and Youth Red Cross (PMR).

Ali Arham, Principal of SMA Negeri 8 Balikpapan, emphasized the importance of such health awareness programs in fostering good habits among students. “Health education is crucial in building awareness and responsible behavior. This aligns with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education’s 7 Habits of Outstanding Indonesian Children Movement, which instills positive values from an early age,” he stated.

As a disease that is often misunderstood, HIV/AIDS can lead to social stigma that affects patients' lives. Dr. Clara Vania Ginting, a general practitioner at PT KPB, led an interactive educational session, encouraging students to understand the medical facts about HIV/AIDS while debunking common myths. “HIV is not just a disease; it is also a social challenge that we must tackle together through proper knowledge and awareness,” she explained.

During the Q&A and open discussion session, students showed great enthusiasm in participating. “It was really engaging, fun, and interactive, so we didn’t feel bored and stayed focused throughout the event. I hope PT KPB continues to organize programs like this to help young people understand how HIV/AIDS works and how to prevent it,” said Rico Panjoy Christian, one of the participants.

Echoing Rico’s sentiments, Louisa Pandiangan also expressed her hope that similar activities would be held regularly. “I hope PT KPB frequently organizes events like this so that children and teenagers out there can learn about the dangers of HIV/AIDS,” she added.

Through this initiative, PT KPB aims to continue contributing to raising awareness about health and safety, particularly among young people. With the right education, students are expected to understand the importance of HIV/AIDS prevention and adopt a healthy and responsible lifestyle.

On the same occasion, PT KPB also presented an overview of Pertamina's business and the RDMP Balikpapan and Lawe-Lawe Project. Asep Sulaeman, VP of Legal & Relations at PT KPB, expressed his appreciation to the school for their warm welcome and shared words of encouragement with the students. “We (KPB) are your neighbors. The largest refinery in Indonesia will soon be in Balikpapan, and we want to see the young generation of this city grow into healthy, intelligent, and empowered individuals—who may even have the opportunity to work at KPB. So, starting now, study well and prepare for your future,” he stated.

As the manager of the National Strategic Project (PSN) Refinery Development Master Plan (RDMP) Balikpapan and Lawe-Lawe, PT KPB is committed not only to supporting national energy security and self-sufficiency but also to empowering communities through education and health initiatives. This effort aligns with President Prabowo Subianto’s Asta Cita program, which focuses on energy self-sufficiency and the development of high-quality human resources in Indonesia.