Illuminating Integrity Fighting Corruption: Messages from AKPOL Cadets Winning International Essay Competition

Semarang, Indonesia - To instill the value of integrity in the younger generation of law enforcers, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) synergized with the Indonesian Police Academy (AKPOL) to hold an award ceremony for the winners of an international essay competition that focused on police integrity. This event, which was held on March 4, 2024, was not just an appreciation event, but rather a manifestation of a shared commitment to creating an ethical and responsible police force.

Amid emotion and pride, four Police Academy cadets, Helena Fiorentina, Tesalonika, John Anderson Batara Aryasena, and Theodore Gomgom Octofarrel, emerged as representatives of the competition winners. They shared their impressions, messages, and hopes about the importance of integrity in law enforcement.

Helena Fiorentina: Youths' Voice Against Corruption

As a level 4 cadet, Helena feels honored and responsible to be part of the movement against corruption. "My essay has the theme of corruption as Indonesia's biggest enemy. I want this essay to be the voice of youth, encouraging my generation to dare to speak and act against corruption," she said. Her success in winning first place was not only a personal victory, but a symbol of the potential of youth in building national integrity.

Tesalonika: Strengthening the Integrity of the National Police

Tesalonika, also a level 4 cadet, took the title of an essay that invited all elements of society and the police to work together to build integrity. "Cooperation between the community and the police is important to create an anti-corruption culture," said Tesalonika. Through her essay, she wants to show that positive change starts from strengthening the basics of the police, protecting, protecting, and serving the community with integrity.

John Anderson Batara Aryasena: Synergy between Community and Police

John Anderson, cadet 2, was inspired by the dynamics of society in viewing corruption. His essay aims to highlight the role of synergy between the community and the police in preventing corruption. "Corruption is not only a matter of the integrity of the authorities, but also about the needs of the people who enable it. We need to work together to build awareness and work together to fight it," explained John Anderson.

Theodore Gomgom Octofarrel: Youths' Aspirations in Fighting Corruption

Gomgom, a level 4 cadet, expressed his gratitude for being able to express his aspirations through this competition. "The title of my essay, 'Evicting the Bastards from Red and White', shows how corruption has harmed our country. I hope that, through this competition, more young people will be inspired to have integrity and fight against corruption," said Gomgom.

Inspirational stories from Helena, Tesalonika, John Anderson, and Gomgom are clear evidence that Indonesian youth are ready to become pioneers of change. The awards ceremony, which was attended by UNODC and Police Academy leaders, was an important moment in the history of police education in Indonesia, underscoring the importance of ethical values ​​and integrity for future law enforcement officers.

Lighting the Path to Integrity

"The journey towards integrity is not always easy, but this award is proof that every step we take matters. Let us continue to keep the fire of integrity burning in every action, for the sake of a better future," said Erik Van Der Veen, Head of the UNODC Office and Liaison for ASEAN.

Inspector General of Police Krisno H. Siregar, S.I.K., M.H., Governor of the Police Academy, closed with a message of hope, "Thank you to UNODC and all those involved in this competition. Let us continue to build strength of character and integrity among law enforcement officers, ensuring that Indonesia moves forward with a strong and ethical foundation."

While these four outstanding cadets enjoyed their awards, their message was clear: integrity is not just words, but real actions that must be carried out together in creating a better Indonesia. This is the beginning of a long journey in building public trust and upholding justice.

Also read: UNODC and AKPOL Celebrate Cadets as Winners of International Essay Competition on Police Integrity