Author: Vidya Sajar Fitri

  • IDR 2.6 Million Still Realistic, Commission B of the Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) Tulungagung Responds to the 2026 District Minimum Wage

    IDR 2.6 Million Still Realistic, Commission B of the Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) Tulungagung Responds to the 2026 District Minimum Wage

    RADAR TULUNGAGUNG – Clarity on the 2026 Tulungagung District Minimum Wage (UMK) has started drawing responses from the legislature.

    Commission B of the Tulungagung Regional House of Representatives views the projected IDR 2.6 million as realistic, given current economic conditions and the population’s purchasing power.

    Widodo Prasetyo, Chair of Commission B of the Tulungagung Regional House of Representatives, said that the IDR 200,000 increase from last year’s IDR 2.4 million is a welcome step forward.

    He noted that the figure is reasonable, given frequent feedback from residents who have long struggled with a minimum wage that lags behind the cost of living.

    “The increase is fair. As council members, we communicate regularly with the people of Tulungagung, and anything less would make life difficult for them,” he explained.

    Nevertheless, the Gerindra political party acknowledges that setting the minimum wage is not one-sided.

    While the increase is good news for workers, businesses face challenges, as not all companies have the financial capacity to implement the raise immediately and uniformly.

    Sluggish economic conditions in recent years have left Tulungagung’s market and consumer demand somewhat unstable.

    Nevertheless, Widodo sees potential in the micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM) sector, which is showing early signs of positive growth, especially in surrounding areas.

    ”Fortunately, UMKM, which faced challenges in previous years, are now gaining momentum in both urban and rural areas,”he said.

    “As an example, regarding the UMK in the southern Tulungagung region, specifically in Besuki near Niyama, public enthusiasm and purchasing power have been remarkably high,” he added.

    Commission B of the Tulungagung Regional House of Representatives plans to hold more intensive dialogue early next year to address potential employer objections.

    Widodo stated that meetings involving the local government, business associations, and labor representatives are needed to align perspectives and ensure economic growth goes hand in hand with worker welfare.

    He emphasized that supporting businesses is not just about wage regulations, but also about fostering communication to change mindsets and address challenges faced by employers.

    “This is absolutely necessary. We need to engage with business owners across Tulungagung Regency,” he said. (dit/c1/rka)

  • Traffic Volume Increases by 20 Percent In the Southern Cross Road (JLS) Area Tulungagung

    Traffic Volume Increases by 20 Percent In the Southern Cross Road (JLS) Area Tulungagung

    RADAR TULUNGAGUNG – Traffic flow on the Southern Cross Road (Jalan Lintas Selatan/JLS) in Tulungagung has experienced a volume increase of up to 20 percent during the Christmas and New Year holiday period through the end of the year.

    This vehicle density is predicted to persist along the routes leading to coastal tourist attractions throughout the JLS within the Besuki District until the peak of the 2025–2026 New Year transition.

    The surge in traffic on the Tulungagung JLS is triggered by high public activity as residents take advantage of the holiday momentum to visit various beach destinations.

    The wide array of beach options along the Tulungagung-Trenggalek JLS, which have become increasingly popular and sought after by tourists, has caused vehicle volumes heading toward the area to rise significantly, particularly during specific hours.

    The Head of the Traffic Unit (Kasatlantas) of the Tulungagung Regional Police, Police Commissioner Assistant (AKP) M. Taufik Nabila, explained that the increase in vehicle flow has been visible since specific dates.

    According to him, the spikes in traffic occurred on December 24 and 26, while the peak density is predicted to take place on December 30 and 31.

    “For the return flow, we estimate an increase between January 2 and 3,” he explained.

    According to the Head of the Traffic Unit, the increase in vehicle volume during the holiday period is estimated to reach 10 to 20 percent compared to normal days.

    The area remains a critical point for potential congestion, specifically the JLS access routes to coastal tourist destinations.

    “The JLS remains a congestion-prone area because destinations from Gemah Beach to Prigi Beach and other coastal areas are currently increasingly popular with the public,” he stated.

    As of Saturday (Dec 27), traffic flow on the Tulungagung-Trenggalek JLS was observed to be steady and smooth. Although there has been an increase in vehicle volume, it has not resulted in gridlock or severe congestion.

    “Compared to last year, there has actually been a decrease in vehicle flow and visitors to the JLS Tulungagung beaches. Last year was busier,” he revealed when confirmed yesterday (Dec 27).

    Regarding plans to implement a one-way system on the JLS, the police will apply it situationally.

    “The possibility of a one-way system exists, similar to last year. If density occurs, we will enforce it. However, if the flow remains smooth, we will not implement it,” he added.

    Meanwhile, to anticipate crowds during New Year’s Eve in the urban areas, the Tulungagung Regional Police Traffic Unit has prepared traffic engineering plans, particularly for the city center.

    “On New Year’s Eve, there will likely be activities at the Town Square (Alun-Alun) and the Sports Center (GOR). For that reason, the Town Square area will be completely closed. Traffic flow from the west, east, and the south (JLS) will be diverted,” explained AKP Taufik.

    Regarding the readiness of supporting routes, AKP Taufik emphasized that other paths on the JLS, such as those toward Popoh Beach and Brumbun Beach, cannot yet be utilized.

    “The Brumbun JLS is still in the paving stage. Similarly, the JLS route toward Popoh is not yet connected and is also undergoing paving. Therefore, they are not yet open to the public,” he concluded.

    The Tulungagung Regional Police Traffic Unit urges the public to remain cautious and obey traffic regulations while traveling during this year-end holiday period.

  • Five Students Diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus, Findings from the Free Health Check-up Program (CKG)

    Five Students Diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus, Findings from the Free Health Check-up Program (CKG)

    RADAR TULUNGAGUNG – The Tulungagung Health Office (Dinkes) has identified five school-aged children who tested positive for diabetes mellitus (DM) following follow-up examinations through the Free Health Check-up program (CKG).

    This poses a serious public health concern in Tulungagung.

    The finding came from the CKG screening, which revealed that 26 children had hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar levels.

    They then underwent follow-up fasting blood tests to confirm their health condition.

    Desi Lusiana Wardhani, Head of the Tulungagung Health Office (Dinkes), revealed that out of 26 children identified with hyperglycemia, five tested positive for diabetes mellitus.

    “After follow-up fasting blood tests, five children were confirmed to have diabetes mellitus. Even a single case of diabetes in a child is a serious concern,” Desi said.

    She explained that all the children diagnosed with diabetes are under 17 years old and still in school, from elementary (SD) to junior high school (SMP).

    Of the five cases, one child has type 1 diabetes mellitus, linked to genetic factors, while the remaining four have type 2 diabetes mellitus, caused by behavioral and lifestyle factors.

    “Most cases are type 2 diabetes, which results from behaviors such as diet, snacking, and other unhealthy lifestyle habits,” she explained.

    Desi emphasized that the children diagnosed with diabetes are now considered patients and require regular monitoring.

    This is provided by the nearest community health center (puskesmas) based on each child’s residence, with nurses and healthcare workers in the village overseeing their care.

    “Monitoring is provided by the community health center (puskesmas). The children are treated as patients, receiving medication and therapy according to the doctor’s diagnosis,” she said.

    Regarding treatment costs, Desi stated that healthcare services will follow each patient’s insurance coverage.

    If a patient is covered by Social Security Agency for Health (BPJS Kesehatan), the treatment costs are paid by BPJS, while general patients follow the standard payment procedures.

    “Monitoring is provided by the government through the puskesmas, but treatment depends on the patient’s health insurance. Monitoring and treatment are two separate matters,” she concluded.

    Desi added that this finding serves as an important warning for parents and the community to pay greater attention to promoting healthy lifestyles in children from an early age, particularly regarding diet and physical activity. (sri/c1/rka)

  • Solidarity Weaving Togetherness, Christmas Eve Mass Celebrated in Solemn Reverence

    Solidarity Weaving Togetherness, Christmas Eve Mass Celebrated in Solemn Reverence

    RADAR TULUNGAGUNG – The Christmas Eve celebration at Gereja Kristen Jawi Wetan (GKJW) in Tulungagung on Wednesday (Dec. 24) was marked by a solemn and communal atmosphere.

    Congregants took part in the full ceremony, reflecting a strong sense of unity and shared devotion.

    Gatut Sunu Wibowo, Regent of Tulungagung, highlighted the importance of togetherness and social solidarity in building an inclusive society.

    “The values of togetherness and social solidarity are vital for strengthening community life. In a diverse society, the local government is committed to pursuing development that is productive, equitable, and focused on residents’ welfare at all village levels,” he said.

    He also praised the active participation of all segments of society, including religious communities, for their contributions to regional development programs.

    “We greatly value the involvement of all community members, including Christian congregants, who not only comply with government regulations but also actively contribute to social and community life,” he added.

    Regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo stressed that a harmonious, safe, and peaceful community is vital for regional development.

    He urged residents to maintain stability, strengthen unity, and foster dialogue for the common good.

    “By upholding humanitarian values, promoting social awareness, and expanding opportunities for dialogue, we can nurture a peaceful and harmonious society a crucial foundation for building the region we all cherish,” he said.

    As 2025 draws to a close and 2026 approaches, Regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo encouraged residents to reflect and renew their spirit of togetherness.

    “Let us end this year with reflection and reaffirm our commitment as we enter the new year. May God bless every step of our development efforts and the lives of all of us,” he said.

    Meanwhile, Yos Ahadre of the GKJW Tulungagung Christmas Event Committee said the Christmas Eve celebration featured a variety of spiritual performances, including dances by children and teenagers and dramas by the church youth.

    “We organized these performances to express the joy of Christmas and to strengthen the sense of togetherness among the congregation,” Yos said.

    He added that the Christmas Day service on Thursday (Dec. 25) was held separately from the Christmas Eve celebration.

    The service followed the usual Sunday worship format and was attended by hundreds of congregants.

    “The Christmas Day service on Dec. 25 was conducted as a dedicated worship service, separate from the celebrations. Attendance was estimated at around 200 to 250 people,” he explained.

    Yos also expressed his appreciation for the presence of local government officials and the support of security personnel, who helped ensure the smooth running of the Christmas celebrations at GKJW Tulungagung.

    “With the support of all parties, including the local government and security forces, we are grateful that the entire series of Christmas celebrations and services proceeded safely, smoothly, and meaningfully,” he concluded.

    All Churches Under Tight Security

    Earlier, Tulungagung Police stepped up security measures at several churches across the regency.

    On Wednesday (Dec. 24), officers used metal detectors to thoroughly inspect the premises.

    Tulungagung Police Chief AKBP Muhammad Taat Resdi, via Public Relations Officer Ipda Nanang, said the security sweep was conducted ahead of worship services.

    The operation aimed to prevent any security disturbances near the churches and ensure the safety of Christian congregants.

    “The sweep was part of the sterilization of churches used for Christmas celebrations and regular Sunday services,” Ipda Nanang said.

    The church security sweep was conducted by personnel from the Samapta Unit and SatIntelkam of Tulungagung Police using metal detectors.

    “So far, the sweeps have not revealed anything suspicious. Bomb detection equipment did not detect any hazardous items inside the churches. The situation remains safe and secure,” he added.

    Ipda Nanang explained that the church security sweeps were conducted to prevent potential terrorist threats that could disrupt worship.

    “In addition to the sweeps, Tulungagung Police, together with the military, local government, and community organizations, implemented both visible and covert security measures during the services,” Ipda Nanang said. (sri/c1/rka)

  • Behind Binta Erlen Salsabela’s Medal Triumph at the 2025 SEA Games, Substandard Training Facilities and a Left Knee Injury Challenges

    Behind Binta Erlen Salsabela’s Medal Triumph at the 2025 SEA Games, Substandard Training Facilities and a Left Knee Injury Challenges

    RADAR TULUNGAGUNG – Tulungagung triathlete Binta Erlen Salsabela represented Indonesia at the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand, clinching one gold and one silver medal at Southeast Asia’s most prestigious multi-sport event.

    However, before reaching this milestone, she had to endure a highly constrained training regimen in her hometown.

    Despite winning gold in the Women’s Aquathlon Team Relay and silver in the Women’s Triathlon Team Relay, Binta’s journey to the top of the Southeast Asian podium was far from simple.

    The 21-year-old athlete had to clear a series of rigorous national-level selections.

    From national championships to physically and mentally exhausting trials to determine the roster for each event, her success in joining the national team carried the weight of breaking the dominance of neighboring nations.

    The Third-Semester Undergraduate Student at the State University of Surabaya (UNESA) revealed that her toughest competition came from Filipino athletes.

    “There was intense competition with the Philippines, as they have been overall champions in the SEA Games multiple times. Alhamdulillah, our goal for Indonesia to become the overall champion in the triathlon discipline was achieved,” she recalled.

    Prior to departing for Thailand, Binta and her teammates underwent a three-month centralized training camp in Bangka Belitung.

    This extended duration was specifically intended to acclimate to the high temperatures characteristic of the competition venue.

    The challenges were not limited to her opponents; her own physical condition posed a threat.

    Shortly before her departure, she was plagued by a left knee injury, though she ultimately overcame it in time.

    “Just before leaving for the competition, I suffered an injury to my left knee. But Alhamdulillah, it improved and went smoothly. On the day of the event, everything was made easier,” she added.

    Despite her status as an international medalist, Binta remains grounded.

    She admitted that while residing in Tulungagung, she must be resourceful to maintain an optimal training schedule.

    The lack of professional sports facilities in her home region forces her to share training spaces with the general public.

    “The facilities are there, but I have to share them with the public. I hope for better support regarding facilities, especially for more gym equipment,” she remarked.

    Infrastructural conditions remain a classic hurdle for local athletes striving for excellence.

    For a triathlete who relies on three disciplines simultaneously, the quality of the asphalt and running tracks is paramount.

    She also expressed her hope for more structured development, supported by proper facilities for athletes being prepared for provincial and national levels.

    “What needs to be improved, I hope, is support through facilitated equipment and development for athletes representing Tulungagung, the province, and beyond. For running, we need national-standard tracks; for cycling, we need improved asphalt quality in certain areas,” she concluded. (*/c1/rka)

  • Official: 2026 Tulungagung Minimum Wage Set at Rp 2,628,190, Higher Than Initially Proposed

    Official: 2026 Tulungagung Minimum Wage Set at Rp 2,628,190, Higher Than Initially Proposed

    RADAR TULUNGAGUNG – The East Java Provincial Government has officially established the 2026 Regency Minimum Wage (UMK) for Tulungagung at Rp2,628,190.

    This decision was formalized in the East Java Governor’s Decree announced on Wednesday, December 24, 2025.

    Responding to the decree, Willy Tjaksono, Vice Chairman for Organizational and Human Resources of the Tulungagung Regency Board of the Indonesian Employers’ Association (APINDO), stated that the 2026 UMK set by the provincial government is higher than the initial proposal submitted by the Tulungagung Wage Council.

    In reaching this decision, the East Java Provincial Government applied an alpha of 0.8, resulting in a 6.4 percent increase.

    “Although in terms of percentage, it reflects a slight decrease of 0.1 percent compared to 2025,” he explained yesterday (25/12).

    Regarding the decision, Willy expressed his hope that all business entities in Tulungagung would accept and implement the UMK determination with sincerity and comply with the regulations ratified by the government.

    “We hope the entire business community can accept this decision gracefully and adhere to the established UMK regulations,” he asserted.

    Furthermore, Willy emphasized the importance of maintaining healthy industrial relations and avoiding practices that could potentially harm workers.

    1. He cautioned against labor violations, such as non-implementation of the UMK, withholding workers’ BPJS social security rights, or the practice of retaining original diplomas.

    “The business sector must avoid industrial relations disputes, such as failing to implement the UMK, neglecting mandatory BPJS payments, withholding diplomas, or demanding payment from employees to reclaim their rights,” he stated.

    According to him, to ensure the welfare of employees and laborers, companies are mandated to fulfill all workers’ rights in accordance with current laws and regulations.

    This includes registering employees for both Employment and Health BPJS and paying the required contributions, except during job training periods.

    “The government’s decision is a strategic step toward fostering a growing economy, a healthy industrial and investment climate, and guaranteed social welfare,” he added.

    Willy further noted that compliance with wage policies is expected to support the regional development vision, specifically in realizing a Tulungagung that is advanced, prosperous, and ethical.

    “This is not merely about the UMK figure; it is about building a labor ecosystem that is fair, sustainable, and dignified,” he remarked.

    Additionally, Willy clarified that the employers’ association was not surprised by the East Java Provincial Government’s decision to set the 2026 Tulungagung UMK higher than the Wage Council’s proposal.

    According to him, factual conditions on the ground have indicated a surge in community economic activity over recent months.

    “The association is not caught off guard. Current data shows that community consumption levels have been consistently high over the last quarter, further bolstered by the launch of the MBG program which has increased the demand for basic commodities,” he said.

    He explained that during the plenary session to determine the 2026 Tulungagung UMK, all members of the Wage Council were aware of the possibility that the Governor of East Java might set the UMK higher than the regional agreement.

    This possibility had been a point of consideration since the beginning of the discussions.

    “It was conveyed during the plenary session that the potential for a higher UMK determination existed, and we have fully taken that into account,” he concluded. (sri/c1/rka)

  • Car Free Day di Kanigoro Blitar Siap Digelar, Dispora Gandeng Banyak OPD dan UMKM

    Car Free Day di Kanigoro Blitar Siap Digelar, Dispora Gandeng Banyak OPD dan UMKM

    BLITAR – Pemerintah Kabupaten (Pemkab) Blitar berencana menggelar kegiatan car free day (CFD) di Jalan Kusuma Bangsa atau depan Kantor Bupati Blitar pada Minggu (2/11/2025) ini.

    Kegiatan ini bakal menjadi agenda rutin mingguan yang tidak hanya berfokus pada olahraga, tetapi juga untuk menggeliatkan sektor ekonomi masyarakat.

    Kepala Dinas Pemuda dan Olahraga (Dispora) Kabupaten Blitar, Anindya Putra Robertus mengatakan, pelaksanaan perdana CFD akan dilakukan pada akhir pekan ini.

    Launching CFD tersebut sekaligus memperingati Hari Olahraga Nasional (Haornas) dan Hari Korpri dengan kegiatan utama berupa jalan sehat yang melibatkan berbagai pihak.

    “Ini rencana memang ada beberapa organisasi perangkat daerah (OPD) yang berkolaborasi untuk mengadakan CFD. Nanti akan dilaksanakan di sepanjang jalan depan Kantor Bupati Blitar,” ujar Anin, sapaan akrabnya.

    Dia melanjutkan, CFD tersebut akan digelar setiap minggu, dengan harapan dapat menjadi ruang rekreasi masyarakat sekaligus mendukung gaya hidup sehat.

    Kegiatan ini tidak hanya untuk olahraga, tetapi juga untuk meningkatkan ekonomi masyarakat. Tentu sepanjang jalan depan Kantor Bupati Blitar nanti dibuat lapak-lapak UMKM.

    Dispora menggandeng dinas koperasi dan disperindag untuk menyiapkan stan-stan UMKM lokal.

    Produk yang akan dijajakan meliputi kuliner, kriya, hingga produk kreatif khas Blitar.

    Dengan begitu, selain menjadi ruang olahraga, kegiatan CFD juga diharapkan dapat menarik minat warga untuk berbelanja dan memperkuat ekonomi pelaku usaha kecil.

    “Tujuannya supaya ekonomi menengah terutama sektor usaha kecil ikut menggeliat. Masyarakat bisa olahraga sambil berbelanja produk lokal,” tuturnya.

    Untuk lokasi, jalan yang akan digunakan dimulai dari simpang empat Kanigoro hingga ujung kompleks Kantor Bupati Blitar.

    Tak hanya di Kanigoro, kegiatan serupa rencananya juga dikembangkan di tiga titik lain yakni Wlingi, Nglegok, dan Srengat.

    Namun, pelaksanaan di wilayah lain masih bersifat uji coba dan akan direalisasikan jika CFD perdana berjalan sukses.

    “Kalau nanti pelaksanaan di Kanigoro berhasil, kami replikasi di tiga kecamatan lain. Tapi sementara fokus dulu di Kanigoro. Kalau tidak ada perubahan, peluncuran akan tetap dilaksanakan 2 November. Tapi, kami tetap menunggu konfirmasi jadwal dari pimpinan daerah,” pungkasnya. (jar/c1/ynu)

     

  • Disbudpar Blitar Ungkap Destinasi Wisata Paling Diminati, Ngreco-Lahor Jadi Pilihan Favorit Wisatawan

    Disbudpar Blitar Ungkap Destinasi Wisata Paling Diminati, Ngreco-Lahor Jadi Pilihan Favorit Wisatawan

    BLITAR – Sektor pariwisata Kabupaten Blitar terus menunjukkan geliat positif sepanjang 2025.

    Berdasarkan data Dinas Kebudayaan dan Pariwisata (Disparbud) Kabupaten Blitar, jumlah wisatawan yang datang ke berbagai destinasi wisata di wilayah setempat hingga September 2025 mencapai ratusan ribu orang.

    Dari seluruh destinasi yang ada, Kawasan Wisata Ngreco/Lahor tercatat sebagai yang paling banyak dikunjungi dengan total 510.359 wisatawan.

    Daya tariknya ada pada panorama alam berupa bendungan dan fasilitas yang terus dikembangkan sebagai lokasi pengendara untuk beristirahat.

    Kabid Pemasaran Pariwisata Disparbud Kabupaten Blitar, Yanti Sholikah menjelaskan, kawasan Ngreco-Lahor menjadi magnet utama bagi wisatawan karena memiliki kombinasi wisata alam dan buatan yang menarik.

    Ngreco-Lahor menjadi destinasi dengan jumlah pengunjung tertinggi hingga triwulan ketiga 2025.

    Peringkat kedua ditempati oleh Kampung Coklat dengan 169.381 pengunjung.

    “Tempat wisata edukatif dan kuliner ini konsisten menjadi destinasi favorit keluarga,” sambungnya.

    Selanjutnya disusul oleh Pantai Serang di posisi ketiga.

    Adapun total pengunjung dari wisata tersebut mencapai 124.615 wisatawan yang datang menikmati keindahan pantai selatan Blitar.

    Sumur Amber menempati posisi keempat dengan 106.101 kunjungan, disusul Blitar Park di urutan kelima dengan 88.851 pengunjung.

    Sementara itu, Perkebunan Teh Sirah Kencong yang menawarkan panorama hijau dan udara sejuk berhasil menarik 74.480 wisatawan, menempati urutan keenam dalam daftar destinasi terpopuler tahun ini.

    Destinasi berbasis kegiatan dan event seperti Pendapa Ageng dan Rest Area Hand Asta Sih juga mencatat angka signifikan yakni 70.151 kunjungan.

    “Adapun destinasi sejarah unggulan Candi Penataran tetap mempertahankan pesonanya dengan capaian 60.261 wisatawan hingga September 2025,” terangnya.

    Sementara itu, dua destinasi lain, Pantai Tambakrejo dan Museum Penataran, turut melengkapi daftar sepuluh besar wisata terpopuler masing-masing dengan 43.796 dan 43.243 pengunjung.

    Menurut Yanti, data tersebut menunjukkan bahwa wisata berbasis alam, edukasi, dan budaya masih menjadi daya tarik utama di Kabupaten Blitar.

    “Tren positif ini diharapkan terus berlanjut hingga akhir tahun, sekaligus memperkuat posisi Blitar sebagai destinasi unggulan di Jawa Timur,” pungkasnya. (kho/c1/ynu)

  • Kekurangan Tenaga Pendidik di Trenggalek Jadi Sorotan, Khawatir Kualitas Pembelajaran Ikut Terpengaruh

    Kekurangan Tenaga Pendidik di Trenggalek Jadi Sorotan, Khawatir Kualitas Pembelajaran Ikut Terpengaruh

    TRENGGALEK – Persoalan kekurangan guru masih jadi pekerjaan rumah besar di dunia pendidikan Kabupaten Trenggalek.

    Isu ini pula yang langsung disorot pengurus Persatuan Guru Republik Indonesia (PGRI) Kabupaten Trenggalek masa bakti 2025–2030 setelah resmi dilantik di Pendapa Manggala Praja Nugraha, Rabu (29/10) sore kemarin.

    Ketua PGRI Trenggalek, Catur Winarno, menegaskan bahwa jumlah tenaga pendidik di sejumlah sekolah negeri sudah tidak seimbang dengan kebutuhan rombongan belajar.

    Kondisi ini dikhawatirkan berdampak pada kualitas pembelajaran jika tidak segera diatasi.

    “Kekurangan guru ini sudah makin besar dan tidak bisa ditunda-tunda. Ada sekolah dengan enam rombel, tapi gurunya hanya empat. Bahkan, ada sembilan kelas dengan jumlah guru yang sama,” ujarnya.

    Dia menilai kekosongan tenaga pendidik di berbagai jenjang harus segera dicarikan solusi.

    Meski penambahan tenaga guru tetap mengikuti regulasi pusat, langkah sementara perlu dilakukan agar kegiatan belajar mengajar tetap berjalan optimal.

    PGRI, kata Catur, telah menyiapkan beberapa alternatif solusi.

    Di antaranya, percepatan rekrutmen guru, penerapan sistem moving class, serta penugasan silang antarsekolah.

    Skema tersebut diharapkan mampu menutup sementara kekurangan tenaga pengajar di sekolah-sekolah negeri.

    “Kami mendorong percepatan rekrutmen dan juga menerapkan sistem moving class, di mana siswa berpindah ruang sementara guru menetap. Kalau memungkinkan, sekolah yang kelebihan guru bisa membantu sekolah lain yang kekurangan,” jelasnya.

    Selain kekurangan tenaga pendidik, tantangan lain yang dihadapi pengurus baru PGRI Trenggalek adalah transformasi digital di sektor pendidikan.

    Menurut mantan kepala SMPN 1 Trenggalek ini, adaptasi terhadap teknologi kini menjadi kebutuhan yang tidak bisa ditawar lagi, terutama di tengah kebijakan pemerintah yang mulai menyalurkan bantuan perangkat digital seperti smart TV ke sekolah-sekolah.

    “Kita akan memantau dan memastikan alat-alat digital itu benar-benar dimanfaatkan untuk pembelajaran. Karena ini peluang untuk memperkuat kualitas pendidikan,” terangnya.

    Meski demikian, kesiapan sumber daya manusia (SDM) juga menjadi perhatian.

    Catur menyebut masih ada kesenjangan kemampuan antara guru muda dan senior dalam beradaptasi terhadap teknologi pembelajaran.

    “Guru muda relatif lebih adaptif, sementara guru senior perlu pendampingan. Tapi saya yakin kolaborasi keduanya bisa berjalan baik kalau sarana dan prasarana mendukung,” ujarnya.

    Sebagai organisasi profesi dan perjuangan, PGRI Trenggalek berkomitmen untuk tidak hanya menjadi mitra kritis pemerintah daerah, tetapi juga menjadi bagian dari upaya peningkatan mutu pendidikan.

    Dengan komposisi pengurus baru dan semangat pembaruan, PGRI Trenggalek dihadapkan pada dua agenda besar yaitu memperjuangkan pemenuhan kebutuhan guru dan memastikan transformasi digital berjalan inklusif di seluruh satuan pendidikan.

    “Kami akan terus mengawal profesionalisme guru melalui bimbingan teknis di seluruh kecamatan. Karena kualitas pendidikan tidak bisa lepas dari kualitas tenaga pendidik,” pungkas pria yang masih aktif menjadi pengawasan SMP di Trenggalek ini.(jaz/c1/rka)

  • Jadi Seorang Perajin Warangka Keris, Laidianto Lestarikan Budaya di Era Globalisasi hingga Tembus Pasar Luar Jawa

    Jadi Seorang Perajin Warangka Keris, Laidianto Lestarikan Budaya di Era Globalisasi hingga Tembus Pasar Luar Jawa

    TULUNGAGUNG – Berasal dari panggilan jiwa untuk melestarikan budaya, Laidianto, seorang perajin warangka keris (meranggi) tetap berkarya di era modern hingga mampu menembus pasar luar Pulau Jawa.

    Di sudut Pasar Burung Beji, Jalan Ki Mangun Sarkoro, bunyi halus pahatan kayu terdengar bersahutan dengan hiruk pikuk pasar.

    Di sanalah Laidianto, pria berusia 45 tahun, duduk tekun dengan sepotong kayu di tangannya.

    Dari bilah kayu itu, perlahan-lahan muncul bentuk anggun warangka keris yang menjadi bagian tak terpisahkan dari pusaka leluhur Jawa.

    Laidianto dikenal dengan sebutan Meranggi, sebutan bagi para pembuat warangka keris. Baginya, pekerjaan ini bukan sekadar profesi, melainkan panggilan jiwa.

    “Saya penerus dari bapak saya, dari abah, dari leluhur. Tidak pernah sekolah khusus buat ini. Tapi dari kecil lihat, akhirnya bisa,” tuturnya sambil tersenyum.

    Laidianto tumbuh di Desa Rejoagung, Kecamatan Kedungwaru.

    Dari kecil, dia kerap memperhatikan ayahnya membuat warangka tanpa pernah benar-benar diajari.

    Hanya dengan melihat, tangannya hafal gerak pahat, matanya peka terhadap urat kayu, dan hatinya tahu kapan karya itu menjadi sempurna.

    “Bapak saya dulu kaget. Saya tidak pernah belajar, tapi tiba-tiba bisa bikin tujuh warangka pertama saya,” kenangnya.

    Kini, dari rumah produksinya di Pasar Burung Beji Tulungagung, Laidianto melanjutkan tradisi keluarga yang kian langka.

    Dia menjelaskan, perajin seperti dirinya untuk saat ini tergolong sangat langka, bahkan hanya dua orang meranggi yang masih aktif berkarya.

    “Yang lain mungkin sudah berganti profesi,” jelasnya sambil tersenyum.

    Dia membuat warangka tidak hanya untuk keris, tapi juga warangka tombak dan pedang dengan gaya Surakarta, Jogjakarta, hingga khas Jawa Timur.

    Dia menggunakan berbagai jenis kayu seperti jati, timo, cendana, dan jenis kayu lainya.

    Namun, kini bahan-bahan itu makin sulit ditemukan.

    “Kalau dulu cari kayu timo di Gunung Budeg masih banyak. Sekarang sudah langka,” keluhnya.

    Dari satu potong kayu, dia bisa menyelesaikan warangka dalam dua hingga tiga hari.

    Namun untuk karya halus dari kayu utuh atau biasa disebut iras bisa butuh waktu hingga seminggu.

    “Harga warangka bermacam-macam tergantung kayu dan pesanan garapnya. Kalau kayunya jati tua sekitar Rp. 300 ribu, cendana bisa Rp 400 sampai Rp. 450 ribu. Tapi kalau yang cendana wangi bisa sampai jutaan,” ujarnya sambil menepuk lembut permukaan kayu yang baru diampelas.

    Meskipun kini persaingan semakin ketat di era digital, Laudianto tetap mempertahankan cara tradisional.

    Dia belum menjual karyanya lewat toko online, tetapi pembeli tetap berdatangan, bahkan dari luar Jawa.

    “Pernah kirim ke Sumatra dan Kalimantan. Kadang mereka orang Tulungagung yang merantau, terus pesan dari sini,” katanya.

    Bagi Laidianto, menjadi meranggi bukan sekadar membuat warangka, melainkan melestarikan budaya bangsa.

    Dia tahu zaman terus berubah. Anak muda lebih tertarik pada gawai daripada gergaji dan pahat.

    Namun, dia tetap bertekad menjaga warisan ini agar tak punah.

    “Sekarang banyak yang muda tidak tertarik. Padahal ini budaya Nusantara. Saya berharap ada yang mau belajar biar tidak hilang,” ujarnya.

    Sebelum kembali melanjutkan pekerjaannya, Laidianto menatap sebilah warangka yang hampir selesai.

    Pahatan lembutnya seperti menyimpan doa. Di setiap serat kayu, dia menanamkan cinta.

    Cinta pada pusaka, cinta pada leluhur, dan cinta pada budaya Tanah Jawa. (*/c1/rka)

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