JurnalPost.com – Pancasila is not just about memorizing or knowing its 5 principles, but it’s also about seeing how these values are applied every day. As an International student studying here in Indonesia, I didn’t fully understand or even know Pancasila at first. It was just something I heard from my Seniors International Students, Classmates and sometimes read the word “Pancasila” somewhere I passed by. But now, I slowly begin to notice how it exist and applied not only just in books, but in societies, environment and people’s actions, attitudes and way of life. Staying in different country made me more observant and I realized I should understand Pancasila because you can also able to understand the people who live by it.
Pancasila is known as the foundation of Indonesia, contains five important principle: 1. Belief in one and only God, 2. A just and civilized humanity, 3. The unity of Indonesia, 4. Democracy, led by the wisdom of representatives of the people, and 5. Social justice for all Indonesian people. At first, these details kind of similar to values I already knew, however I didn’t expect too really know them clearly in Everyday life. I actually found interest in how these principles are not just taught, however actually practiced and applied. Indonesia is indeed a diverse country, also many religions, cultures, and traditions, but despite the differences there are still a strong sense or respect and unity among people. And it made me realize how valuable Pancasila is in keeping the country at peace despite of its each difference.
The one thing that stood out to me is that how people respect each other’s beliefs. As a student or someone who came from another country, I really felt welcomed and accepted for who I am even though I have different background. I could appreciate how people are gentle, careful and respectful when it comes to religion, which reflects the first principles of Pancasila. Another also one thing that I noticed is the strong sense of community. Whether it’s helping a friend, classmates, join group activities or simply being kind to someone or others, there’s a feeling that people genuinely care for one another. These kinds of actions may seem simple, but it shows how deeply the value of unity and social responsibility are part of daily existence
At the same time, I can compare this with the values where the country I grep up which is in Philippines. We also have a very strong sense of community, especially with the idea of “Bayanihan” it’s a core Filipino value that emphasizes togetherness, volunteerism, and helping those in need especially during crises. Bayanihan is also where people help each other without expecting anything in return. It reminds me a lot of how Indonesians work together and support one another. Another value is “Pakikipagkapwa”, which means treating others with respect, kindness, and understanding. I always found it very similar to how the way Indonesians value humanity and equality. Despite of being in different countries, I realize that we share some of the same beliefs when it comes to how we treat others.
However, I noticed a difference. Here in Indonesia, Pancasila is clearly taught as a national identity. It’s something that people learn in school then practice and apply it in society. While in the Philippines, our values are not written in one single system like how Pancasila were written. Instead we learned those values from our families, cultures, and daily experiences. Indeed, this made me understand and appreciate how Indonesia has clear foundation that guides its people, society, and its country while still allowing diversity to normally exist.
It’s something that can be seen and felt in everyday life. As an International student, the opportunity to experience it has opened my eyes for a different way of knowing values and culture. Also, it reminds me that despite we come from different places or country, we’re not truly that different at all. I Believe values like respect, unity, and kindness exist everywhere- they just have different names. And through learning Pancasila, I am able to connect not only with Indonesian culture and beliefs, but also reflect more deeply on my own.
Name: Maja Asleah Lindongan Salisipan
NIM: 2530106081
Program: Biology Education
Name of University: UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon (UINSSC)
Supporting Lecturer: Wisnu Hatami, M. Pd
