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Mon, 10 Mar 2025
JIMBARAN – Amid the rise of modern games, Widiatmika Middle School remains committed to preserving Balinese culture. One tangible effort in this endeavor is the implementation of the Projek Penguatan Profil Pelajar Pancasila (P5) program with the theme of Local Wisdom, which this year featured a competition in the traditional game of Megala-gala. Beyond preserving cultural heritage, this event also strengthened student camaraderie and provided an enjoyable and educational weekend activity.
The Megala-gala competition took place over two days, on February 21 and 28, 2025, involving all seventh-grade students divided into 10 teams. Each team was given a unique name using Balinese terminology, such as Bojog Joget, Jaran Mekecos, Yuyu Matah, and Cacing Panas, adding to the excitement of the competition.
The Coordinator of the P5 Local Wisdom Facilitator Team at Widiatmika Middle School, I Putu Agus Ariangga Iswara, explained that Megala-gala was chosen for its competitive nature and emphasis on teamwork. In addition to being entertaining, this game promotes physical activity, making it beneficial for students’ physical well-being.
"Megala-gala is a traditional Balinese obstacle game in which one team (the attackers) must pass through the defensive formation of the opposing team (the defenders) without being touched. The dynamics of the game are highly engaging and require strategic planning, making it an excellent competition sport," said Ariangga.
Students showed great enthusiasm for the competition. From the beginning, they eagerly devised strategies and carefully selected team members. Even students unfamiliar with Megala-gala quickly learned the rules and techniques of the game.
"Widiatmika Middle School students have a strong competitive spirit. Whether or not prizes are involved, they play with enthusiasm and determination. This demonstrates that they are not only focused on winning but also truly enjoying the process," Ariangga added.
The Megala-gala tournament followed a knockout system, similar to a soccer tournament. The competition began with the preliminary rounds, followed by the semifinals and finals, all held on the Widiatmika Middle School basketball court. After an intense series of matches, Team Cacing Panas emerged as the champion, followed by Team Jaran Mekecos in second place and Team Yuyu Matah in third.
Ariangga hopes that this competition will provide lasting benefits for students, not only in terms of physical fitness and teamwork but also in character development aligned with the Profil Pelajar Pancasila framework.
"Through this game, students not only learn teamwork and strategic thinking but also cultivate sportsmanship. Additionally, the competition serves as an enjoyable weekend activity, allowing students to return to their studies feeling refreshed," he concluded.
By organizing the Megala-gala competition, Widiatmika Middle School once again proves that local wisdom can thrive alongside modernization while also becoming an integral part of an engaging and meaningful learning experience for the younger generation.
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