National Dance Competition: Self- Inspiration Ignites the Spirit of Young Generation in Malang

The spirit of innovation and creativity of the young generation radiated through the iForte National Dance Competition Self-Inspiration which took place lively at the Pertamina Sports Hall, Universitas Brawijaya (UB). This prestigious competition became the first national stage to combine modern dance with a touch of Nusantara culture.

In collaboration with Universitas Brawijaya, this event successfully invited 17 semifinalist teams from various educational institutions, ranging from SMKN 1 Malang, SMAN 4 Malang, to Malang State University and Dian Nuswantoro University Kediri. The participants performed two main choreographies, a compulsory dance with the Self-Inspiration theme song and a free dance rooted in traditional culture.

Victor Sihombing, General Manager of iForte Marketing Communication, emphasized that the purpose of this event was to inspire young people to be more creative, innovative, and love traditional Indonesian arts.

“We want the younger generation to not only follow the flow of foreign culture, but also be proud and able to elevate Nusantara culture to the global level,” he said. This selection event was tight and enthusiastic, the competition was attended by 413 dance groups from all over Indonesia, which were then filtered into semifinalists in 15 major cities. Malang region is one of the important points ahead of the final round which will be held in Jakarta on April 26, 2025.

Victor also explained that UB was chosen as a strategic partner because of its reputation as a leading university in Indonesia.

“This collaboration is proof of the positive synergy between educational institutions and industry to support the younger generation,” he said.

The excitement and appreciation in the middle of the Competition were attended by more than 80 participants and 200 supporters who filled the venue, creating a lively atmosphere with Nusantara-themed clothing. One of the highlights was the Beksa Dinus dance group from Dian Nuswantoro University, which won the Best Costume award due to their elegant and attractive clothing design.

Silvi Liswanda, Vice President Director of iForte, said that this competition is in line with iForte’s commitment to support arts, culture, and sports. “The song Inspirasi Diri is a symbol of our message to the younger generation to continue to explore their potential and be confident in their work,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Director of UB Student Affairs, Dr. Sujarwo, M.P., also gave high appreciation for this event. In his speech, he emphasized the importance of developing students’ potential through this similar creative events.

“Every time is an opportunity to improve your capacity. By participating in a competition like this, you prove yourself as a dignified and competitive child of the nation,” said Sujarwo.

Victor Sihombing stated that the high enthusiasm of the participants was a surprise in itself and promised that this competition would continue next year with a different theme. “We hope that this event will not only be a competition, but also an inspiration for the younger generation to continue to work,” he concluded.

With the spirit of togetherness and respect for culture, the iForte National Dance Competition Inspirasi Diri has proven that dance can be a medium of expression that connects the younger generation with the cultural roots of the Indonesian nation. (KAN/UB PR/ Trans. Iir)