Tuesday, 22 September 2026
LABUHANBATU SELATAN | INDATANEWS.COM- Labuhanbatu Selatan Regent Fery Sahputra Simatupang emphasized the important role of Islamic boarding schools, known as Pesantren, in shaping a young generation that is not only strong in academic knowledge but also grounded in faith, good morals, independence, and strong character.
Fery delivered the message when he led the annual opening ceremony for the introductory week at Pondok Pesantren Dar Al Ma'arif in Basilam Baru, Kotapinang District, on Monday, September 21, 2026. Speaking before students, teachers, and boarding school supervisors, he urged everyone involved in the educational process to use the new academic year as an opportunity to strengthen their enthusiasm for learning while continuing to develop their personal character.
According to Fery, the transition to a new academic year should not be viewed merely as a change in the education calendar. Instead, the moment should serve as a fresh start for students to build discipline, improve their achievements, and strengthen their determination to develop their abilities.
Fery considers the Pesantren environment strategically important in shaping the character of the younger generation. In his view, education at a Pesantren should not focus solely on academic achievement. It should also instill manners, morality, discipline, and exemplary behavior in everyday life.
"Education in a Pesantren is not only about intelligence, but also about building faith, morals, independence, and character. Be a generation that possesses knowledge, demonstrates good morals, and is able to bring benefits to religion, society, the nation, and Labuhanbatu Selatan Regency," Fery said.
He reminded students that knowledge without a moral foundation can lose its direction. Conversely, good moral values also need to be supported by knowledge so that individuals can create greater benefits for the people around them.
For that reason, Fery urged all students at Pondok Pesantren Dar Al Ma'arif to take their education seriously. At the same time, he encouraged them to respect their teachers, comply with all Pesantren regulations, and always demonstrate good manners when interacting with others.
According to Fery, these values form an important foundation for students after completing their education and returning to society. The academic skills they acquire should be combined with religious understanding, moral values, and the ability to assume social responsibility.
Fery also expressed his appreciation for the teachers and supervisors at Pondok Pesantren Dar Al Ma'arif who continuously accompany and guide the students. In his view, educational success cannot be separated from the dedication of educators who devote their time, energy, and thoughts to guiding the younger generation.
Fery said teachers hold an important position in shaping students' character. The exemplary conduct demonstrated by educators within the Pesantren environment can become an essential part of the students' educational experience and have a lasting influence on their attitudes and behavior.
He expressed hope that teachers and supervisors would continue their dedication to educating students. This is particularly important amid social changes and the increasingly diverse challenges facing young people today.
"The Government of Labuhanbatu Selatan Regency will continue to support the development of education and Pesantren as an important part of regional development," he said.
Fery described Pesantren as a strategically important component in developing human resources. Education in Pesantren combines the transfer of knowledge with religious education, moral development, and the cultivation of independence. This combination can provide a strong foundation for developing the younger generation.
The existence of Pesantren is also important not only for current educational needs. The students are part of the future generation that will eventually take on responsibilities in various areas of community life in Labuhanbatu Selatan.
Fery further emphasized that learning motivation and the strengthening of moral values must go hand in hand. The Government of Labuhanbatu Selatan Regency needs a young generation with professional competencies as well as integrity and a strong sense of social responsibility.
He expressed hope that the educational process at Pondok Pesantren Dar Al Ma'arif would produce students who are confident in developing their abilities while also understanding the importance of applying the knowledge they acquire and using it for the benefit of others.
In his view, regional development does not depend solely on the construction of physical facilities and infrastructure. Improving the quality of human resources is equally important so that Labuhanbatu Selatan can have a generation capable of facing future challenges.
In this context, Pesantren education makes an important contribution to preparing a generation that understands religious values while also being able to adapt to developments in science, technology, and social life.
Fery then called on all students to use the new academic year as an opportunity to further improve themselves. He hoped students would not become satisfied with their previous achievements but would continue to develop their abilities and address their shortcomings.
"Let us welcome this new academic year with new motivation, new goals, and better achievements. Study diligently, maintain noble character, and continue striving for success," he said.
The annual opening ceremony for the introductory week at Pondok Pesantren Dar Al Ma'arif therefore became an important moment for the entire Pesantren community to begin the new academic year with renewed enthusiasm for learning and a strong focus on character development.
The event also underscored that education cannot be measured solely by the extent of a person's knowledge. Education is also reflected in how that knowledge shapes a personality that is morally grounded, independent, and committed to integrity, while capable of contributing to religion, society, the nation, and Labuhanbatu Selatan Regency. (IDNC)
REPORTER: Jhon Fitra Sagala | EDITOR: Fik Sagala
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