BALINEWSID.COM, TABANAN — FOKSA Bali marked its 34th anniversary by holding a community service activity and a pilgrimage at Taman Pujaan Bangsa (TPB) Margarana in Tabanan on Sunday (Sept. 20, 2026).

The event was attended by FOKSA Bali members, including active members and those who have retired from service. The activities began with cleaning the TPB Margarana area, followed by a briefing on the history of the struggle led by Balinese national hero I Gusti Ngurah Rai.

The participants then laid a wreath, took a group photograph and scattered flowers at the heroes’ cemetery as a tribute to those who died in the struggle to defend Indonesia’s independence.

FOKSA Bali Secretary Murtiono, Amd.Kep, said the anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect on the organization’s 34-year journey while strengthening ties among its members.

“Although some of us have retired and others are still active, we continue to maintain our ties with fellow FOKSA Bali members,” he said.

Murtiono said the anniversary was not merely a ceremonial event, but also an opportunity to strengthen solidarity and a sense of togetherness among members.

He said TPB Margarana was deliberately chosen because of its historical significance in Indonesia’s struggle for independence, particularly for members with backgrounds in the Indonesian military.

“This is part of our roots, especially for those of us in the military. The heroes who fought here are our role models and inspiration for the struggles ahead,” Murtiono said.

Murtiono emphasized that dedication to the country does not end when a person retires.

He said social activities such as community service were among the ways former and active members could continue contributing to society, including by preserving and honoring historical sites.

“Our service to the country is not limited by age. We will continue for as long as we can,” he said.

He expressed hope that FOKSA Bali would remain united and continue strengthening relationships among its members while passing the spirit of solidarity on to younger generations.

The pilgrimage to TPB Margarana was also intended to introduce the history of the nation’s struggle to younger generations.

Murtiono said historical sites such as TPB Margarana should continue to be introduced to children and grandchildren so they could learn directly about the sacrifices made by previous generations.

“This is a place where we can convey and nurture a sense of nationalism,” he said.

The flower-scattering ceremony served as a tribute to the heroes who sacrificed their lives in the struggle to defend Indonesia’s independence.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the FOKSA Bali 34th Anniversary Committee, Yakobus B. Ofong, highlighted the importance of organizational activities that create tangible social benefits.

He said FOKSA should not limit its activities to ceremonial events, but should also play a broader role in society.

According to Yakobus, social activities such as the community service at TPB Margarana could provide meaningful benefits while leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.

Following the community service and pilgrimage, the anniversary celebration continued at the wantilan, a traditional Balinese community pavilion, in a festive atmosphere.

The event featured a number of Balinese cultural performances, including Tari Topeng, Dadong Rerod and Tari Janger, along with other entertainment.

The 34th anniversary of FOKSA Bali carried the theme, “With the Spirit of FOKSA’s 34th Anniversary, Unite Hearts, Unite Souls, Care for and Share with One Another as a Manifestation of Togetherness 392-II.”

Through the series of activities, FOKSA Bali used its 34th anniversary not only to commemorate the organization’s journey, but also to strengthen fellowship among members and maintain a spirit of social responsibility, solidarity and nationalism.