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Bekasi, September 2023 One of the learning models implemented at Al Siddiq International School is Project Based Learning (PBL). This model uses projects or activities as a medium for learning in order to achieve competencies in attitude, knowledge, and skills for pupils. Here, the teacher acts as a facilitator by providing case studies that are to be solved through projects. In this approach, PBL emphasises pupils’ active participation and collaboration, usually carried out in groups. During the first term, Al Siddiq International School scheduled two PBL programmes for both primary and secondary levels. As this was the pupils’ first PBL experience, it was naturally an engaging one, with pupils showing great enthusiasm. The projects assigned varied according to year groups: Primary Years 1, 3, and 4, as well as Secondary Year 7. For instance, the Year 1 pupils carried out a project themed “Part of My Body”. Each group was given a set of body part illustrations to cut out, paste, and colour on a large sheet of card. These were then labelled in both English and Arabic. Group task allocation was left to the pupils themselves, enabling them to practise group management. Every pupil was required to be actively involved in the process. The teacher then guided pupils in preparing to present their PBL outcomes. During these presentations, pupils were trained to explain their group’s work, using both foreign languages in their delivery. Through this model of learning, pupils gained a variety of skills and experiences, including teamwork, patience, neatness, presentation design, accuracy in writing in two languages, confidence in speaking before the class, unity during group presentations, as well as clarity of expression that could be understood by others. This very first PBL was undoubtedly a valuable lesson in the learning process. What pupils received from their teachers and from reading books could be transformed into a project, allowing them to absorb knowledge more effectively. [Red.]

Bekasi, September 2023, The prolonged dry season of 2023 has affected most regions in Indonesia. “As of early August 2023, 69% of Indonesia has entered the dry season,” quoted from the official Instagram account of BMKG (Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency) on Monday, August 14, 2023. Specifically in Bekasi, West Java, the Bekasi Regency Government declared an emergency drought status from August 31 to September 13, 2023. This situation has stirred our collective concern for those affected by the prolonged drought. The lack of rainfall over several months has caused widespread illness, crop failures, and the drying of groundwater, rivers, and reservoirs that serve as vital water sources for daily community life. As an expression of environmental concern, Al Siddiq International School practiced one of the teachings of Rasulullah (peace be upon him) during extended droughts, namely performing Shalat Istisqa (the prayer for rain). In the Prophet’s biography, it is recorded that this event occurred four years before his passing, when Madinah experienced nearly a year of drought. The people pleaded with Rasulullah to pray for rain, and he led them in performing Shalat Istisqa. At Al Siddiq International School, Shalat Istisqa was performed on Thursday, September 14, 2023, starting at 09:30 AM WIB. The prayer took place at the school field and was attended by teachers, all students, and school staff. The Imam and Khatib was Ustadz Abdullah Haris, Lc., M.Pd., serving as the Director of Education at Al Siddiq International School. In his sermon, Ustadz Haris called upon everyone to increase istighfar, seeking forgiveness from Allah SWT for all sins committed, while also reminding them to remain grateful for Allah’s blessings up to this day. He emphasized that compared to other Muslim communities in different countries who face trials such as flash floods and earthquakes, gratitude must remain at the core of our faith. Furthermore, Ustadz Haris reminded the congregation to protect the environment by using water wisely and only as needed. “Let us cultivate a sense of concern for our brothers and sisters who struggle to access clean water,” he urged. The Shalat Istisqa concluded with supplications for Allah SWT to bestow His mercy in the form of rain, echoed by the collective amin of the congregation. Alhamdulillah, the event was carried out solemnly and successfully.[Red.]

In today’s digital era, providing education to children has become much easier, as a wide range of resources can be accessed through the internet. However, parents must remain vigilant when their children use the internet for learning. While online platforms can offer many positive benefits, it is important to acknowledge that the internet also carries significant risks. The internet is an open space where almost anything can be found, including harmful and inappropriate content such as pornography. Parents play a crucial role in preventing such negative influences from reaching their children. One effective step is to apply controlled restrictions. Although blocking pornographic or violent content is not always straightforward, with strong commitment and active supervision, parents can greatly reduce children’s exposure to harmful material. Below are several strategies that parents can implement:1. Utilize Security Applications or Software Specialized applications and software can filter harmful content from websites. These tools are designed to block sites containing certain keywords or inappropriate material. Examples include FamiSafe, Norton Family Parental Control, and Kidslox. 2. Apply Browser Blocking Options Most internet browsers are equipped with features to enhance security and restrict inappropriate content: Mozilla Firefox: Access the settings, choose the Add-On menu, and search for parental control extensions. Select an add-on with blocking features for keywords or content related to pornography. Google Chrome: Within the Preferences menu, activate the SafeSearch option, which helps filter out pornographic and other harmful content. 3. Enable Parental Control on the Operating System Devices with Windows 10 or later include built-in parental control features. Parents can create a dedicated email account for their child, then access the Account settings. Under Family & Other People, select Add a family member to establish monitoring and restrictions. 4. Regularly Review Device History For children who use smartphones or tablets to access the internet, parents should conduct routine checks of browsing history. Ensure that parental access is secured and settings cannot be altered by the child. Regular monitoring provides insight into the websites children visit and their overall online activity. 5. Restrict Application Usage Parents should control the types of applications that children may download or access. Establish clear boundaries and ensure that only age-appropriate and approved applications are permitted on their devices. 6. Activate Positive Internet Features Several internet service providers in Indonesia offer protective features to safeguard children from harmful content. For instance, IndiHome by Telkom Indonesia provides a Positive Internet feature that automatically blocks pornographic and inappropriate websites. This feature can be activated on both smartphones and laptops. Through consistent supervision and by utilizing available technological tools, parents can create a safer online environment for their children. Beyond protection, these efforts also help instill a sense of responsibility in children as they navigate the digital world.

School holidays are the most awaited time for children—especially the long mid-year break, which is usually the longest holiday in their school calendar. After going through daily academic routines, children sometimes need a short pause to recharge and prevent prolonged stress. That’s why it is very important for parents to help make their children’s holidays more meaningful and enjoyable. Here are five exciting activities that parents can do together with their children: Backyard camping can be a fun and educational holiday experience for children. Through this activity, parents can teach many things—from knowledge about stars and planets to other natural wonders. All you need is a tent, a big blanket, some hot chocolate, and a full day of exciting family camping in the yard. The zoo is always a popular holiday destination. It allows children to explore and observe various animals directly. Nowadays, zoos are also more accessible as many are located within city centers. Alternatively, visiting a museum can be a great choice. Many modern museums now provide interactive activities, allowing children to learn new knowledge and discover interesting facts in a fun way. During the holidays, encourage children to go cycling, either in the morning or afternoon around the neighborhood or in a nearby park. Cycling offers many benefits: it helps build muscle strength, boosts confidence, increases happiness, enhances social skills, and improves motor coordination. Invite children to spend time gardening—especially if you have flowers or vegetable plants at home. This activity not only helps children understand nature and the environment but also allows them to explore new things, such as discovering insects living in the soil. Ball games can significantly improve children’s motor skills, as they involve hand-eye coordination and timing—both essential in child development. In addition, playing ball also teaches children teamwork, collaboration, and healthy competitiveness. Parents can encourage children to play in the yard or join them in a fun game. All of these activities can be done together during the school holidays. By engaging in such activities, children not only enjoy their free time but also remain physically active, which supports their growth and development throughout the holiday season.

Al Siddiq International applies an effective bilingual education system designed to prepare students for the challenges of global competition. English and Arabic serve as the two primary languages taught at the school, with a strong emphasis on developing language skills that support both academic needs and everyday communication. English is taught intensively, both in academic contexts and in general conversation, enabling students to become accustomed to communicating in this international language. Meanwhile, Arabic is also taught as an essential part of religious education, allowing students to gain a deeper understanding of Qur’anic texts and Islamic teachings. In addition, Al Siddiq International fosters students’ entrepreneurial spirit through various entrepreneurship programs. These initiatives aim to cultivate creativity, innovation, and independence among students. They are guided in developing critical thinking skills and in managing simple business ventures. Environmental awareness is also a core focus of the school, supported by a range of activities that instill values of care and responsibility for the environment. Through its combination of bilingual education, entrepreneurship, and environmental consciousness, Al Siddiq International prepares its students to become highly competitive individuals who are also committed to sustainability in the future.

Tempe is known as a traditional food native to Indonesia. It has existed since the 16th century in Java, and Indonesia remains one of the world’s largest producers of tempe. Beyond being a staple side dish served with rice, tempe is also processed into a wide variety of snacks and souvenirs unique to certain regions. In applying the Project Based Learning (PBL) model, projects for the secondary school unit are naturally more complex than those for primary pupils. This semester, the very first project for Al Siddiq International’s Year 7 students was to produce their own tempe – starting from preparing the raw ingredients, managing the process through to completion, and finally tasting the result. Given tempe’s close connection with the daily lives of Indonesians, many were curious: how is tempe actually made? As it turns out, the process is not as complicated as one might imagine. This was precisely the experience of Al Siddiq International’s secondary students, who carried out each stage within their groups – from washing the soybeans, boiling and drying them, to storing them in containers for the fermentation process. Why, then, the emphasis on “Tempe à la Al Siddiq” in the title above? Is there any significant difference between ordinary tempe and the one produced by Al Siddiq’s Year 7 students? Indeed, there is. The uniqueness lies in the addition of flowers and leaves to the soybeans. Butterfly pea flowers, rose petals, moringa leaves, and nori (seaweed) were all incorporated as complementary ingredients. And what was the outcome? Alhamdulillah, the entire tempe-making process went smoothly and successfully. The tempe had a more fragrant aroma and a distinct flavour, enriched by the combination of nori and moringa leaves. At the end of the PBL project, students were required to present both the process and the finished product. Through this experience, it is hoped that in the future pupils may be able to develop unique tempe creations with commercial value.