Personnel from the Polres Banjar Traffic Unit (Satlantas) conducting the “Police as Friends to Children” program at SDN 10 Mulyasari.

progresifjaya.co.id, BANJAR CITY – A future generation that is intelligent, law-abiding, and possesses strong character cannot be shaped overnight. This process requires a solid foundation built from an early age, integrating moral education, traffic discipline, and a spirit of nationalism.

A tangible commitment to fostering such national character has been demonstrated by the Polres Banjar of the Polda of West Java.

Through a humanistic educational program—aligned with the National Police Chief’s strategic directive for a “Police Alongside the Community” approach—the Head of the Polres Banjar Traffic Unit, AKP Priyo Sumbodo, personally visited an elementary school to serve as the inspector for the flag-raising ceremony at SDN 10 Mulyasari, Banjar City, on the morning of Monday, November 9, 2026.

The ceremony, held solemnly in the schoolyard, was attended with great enthusiasm by all students, teachers, and staff of SDN 10 Mulyasari. The presence of AKP Priyo Sumbodo added a unique dimension, transforming a routine flag ceremony into an inspiring educational moment.

For years, some children may have grown up with the misconception that police officers are rigid or intimidating figures, particularly in the context of law enforcement on the roads.

Addressing this, AKP Priyo Sumbodo emphasized that the “Police as Children’s Friends” (Polisi Sahabat Anak) program was specifically designed by the Polri to dismantle such stigmas through preventive and humanistic means.

By employing a friendly, warm, and compassionate approach, the police aim to be present not merely as enforcers of the law, but also as protectors, guardians, and true friends to children.

“We want the children in Banjar City to see the police not as frightening figures—or someone to fear when a rule is broken—but as their friends. Friends who are ready to guide and protect them, and who remind them to choose what is good and safe,” declared AKP Priyo Sumbodo before hundreds of students.

He believes this approach can help build children’s self-confidence while fostering a sense of security regarding law enforcement institutions from an early age.

In his meaningful address, AKP Priyo Sumbodo also provided in-depth guidance on the importance of a moral and ethical foundation.

According to him, intellectual intelligence and high academic grades mean little if they are not balanced with good manners and noble character.

Speaking to the students of SD 10 Mulyasari, he urged them to always prioritize showing respect toward their teachers and parents in their daily lives.

“Discipline and good manners are a child’s greatest assets. Respect your teachers at school just as you respect your parents at home. Obedience to your parents and teachers is the key that opens the door to future success,” he emphasized.

Another social issue highlighted by AKP Priyo Sumbodo was the prevention of bullying within the school environment. The elementary school years are a (golden age)—a phase when children begin to learn how to socialize, develop empathy, and build relationships with others.

Therefore, AKP Priyo Sumbodo reminded the students to always maintain harmony, avoid conflict, and support one another without discrimination.

The school environment should be a safe and pleasant space for every child to grow and thrive.

In his capacity as Head of the Traffic Unit, AKP Priyo Sumbodo also included important lessons on traffic safety. He emphasized, that road discipline should not stem from coercion, the fear of being ticketed, or simply the presence of law enforcement officers on duty.

Furthermore, traffic orderliness must evolve into a genuine, self-driven awareness—recognizing that road safety is an absolute necessity for protecting both oneself and others during daily activities.

Through these interactive and educational outreach initiatives, the Polres Banjar hope to continue fostering a younger generation in the city of Banjar that is intellectually sharp, possesses high moral character practices road discipline, and maintains a steadfast spirit of nationalism. (Bembo)