President Leads National Child Day Celebrations

Jakarta (Antara Bali) - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono led the National Child Day celebrations at the Keong Mas IMAX theatre in Beautiful Indonesia in Miniature Park (TMII) here on Wednesday.

The head of state was accompanied by, among others, First Lady Ani Yudhoyono and Religious Affairs Minister Suryadharma Ali (who is also the chairman of the organizing committee of the event). The event was attended by some 700 guests.

Suryadharma and Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Minister Linda Ameliasari presented awards to several people who had contributed significantly to the welfare of Indonesian children.

An operetta by Islamic boarding school students, handicapped children and children from border areas was the highlight of the event.

Outside the IMAX theatre, too, a number of activities were organized, which were attended by nearly 1,200 people.

The activities included: children's storytelling by Drs Suyadi alias Pak Raden; a dialogue on Indonesian children by Gus Pur and Habudi; presentation of awards to Pak Raden and Bu Kasur for their inspirational creations; a music performance by Wali Band and Baim; a speech contest; a science competition for Islamic boarding school students; an art performance by handicapped children; and the "One Day for Children" event organised by the social affairs ministry.

Among the dignitaries present at the event were Chairman of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Taufiq Kiemas, House Speaker Marzuki Alie, Chairman of the Regional Legislative Council (DPD) Irman Gusman, Coordinating Minister for People's Welfare Agung Laksono, and Chief of the National Police General Timur Pradopo.(*/T007)