EduAsiaNews, Malang – Universitas Negeri Malang (UM) continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting the development of early childhood potential through the organisation of Pentas Ceria 2026 (Joyful Performance 2026), held by the Child Care Centre (TPA) Melati of the Dharma Wanita Persatuan (DWP) UM on Saturday, 13 June. Carrying the theme “Joyful Harmony in the Diversity of the Nusantara”, the event provided a stage of expression for children to showcase their talents, build self-confidence, and become acquainted with the cultural diversity of Indonesia from an early age, all within a cheerful and festive atmosphere.
Various artistic performances presented by the children successfully captivated the attention of invited guests and parents alike. Far beyond a mere entertainment event, Pentas Ceria 2026 was designed as an educational medium to foster children’s social, emotional, communicative, and creative development. Through the experience of performing before an audience, children learned to manage their self-confidence, collaborate with peers, and appreciate differences.
The Chairperson of the TPA Melati DWP UM Association, Dr. Tuti Mutia, M.Pd., explained that the theme selected for this year aimed to introduce the richness of Nusantara culture while instilling values of tolerance and love for the homeland in children.
“We chose this theme to introduce the diversity of Indonesian culture to children from an early age. Every performance they deliver is an act of courage and an achievement worthy of appreciation. Through this activity, children learn to be brave in performing before a public audience and to develop their social and emotional skills,” she stated.
According to Tuti, the three-month preparation process provided children with invaluable experience in cultivating discipline, responsibility, and collaborative skills — all of which serve as essential foundations in supporting children’s growth and development during their golden years.
The existence of TPA Melati UM itself represents Universitas Negeri Malang’s commitment to meeting the childcare and early childhood education needs of its academic community. Since its establishment, TPA Melati has not only provided childcare services, but has also served as a centre for character education and developmental stimulation, supported by professional teaching staff.
These services offer tangible benefits to UM’s lecturers and administrative staff, enabling them to better balance their professional responsibilities with child-rearing duties. With a safe and educative learning environment, children are given the opportunity to develop optimally, while parents are able to carry out their academic and administrative activities with greater peace of mind.
The enthusiasm of parents was evident throughout the event, as they filled the performance area to witness their children take to the stage. Expressions of pride and deep emotion were visible as the children showcased the results of months of preparation undertaken together with their teachers.
The Chairperson of DWP UM and Patron of TPA Melati, Arida Fatmawati Hariyono, expressed her hope that TPA Melati UM would continue to be the preferred choice for quality early childhood education and care services.
“We hope that TPA Melati UM remains in demand, particularly among the UM community and those in the surrounding area. TPA Melati UM is also expected to continue delivering positive services, as it is guided by competent and dedicated individuals,” she remarked.
Through Pentas Ceria 2026, TPA Melati UM reaffirms its role as an educational space that supports the holistic development of children’s potential. The event also strengthens the synergy among teachers, parents, and educational institutions in creating an inclusive, creative, and enjoyable learning environment for children.
Furthermore, the organisation of Pentas Ceria 2026 is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) through the provision of inclusive and high-quality early childhood education, and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by instilling values of diversity, tolerance, and respect for differences from an early age. This activity contributes to the formation of a generation that is self-confident, creative, and of strong character, ready to face the challenges of the future.
