Meet Riza, a 14-years-old student from Jakarta. His story is a testament to the power of making informed choices and prioritizing health over harmful habits like smoking. His story serves as a beacon of hope for youth, motivating them to make healthier choices for a brighter future.
This young boy dreamed of becoming a member of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI). Despite the challenges he faced, this ambitious young man held onto his dreams with unwavering determination.
One notable aspect of his journey was his steadfast refusal to succumb to the temptation of smoking. Despite being surrounded by peers who smoked, he stood his ground. His primary reason for abstaining was a profound understanding of the hazardous substances found in cigarettes. Riza knew that smoking posed severe health risks, including the potential for a premature death.
His conviction against smoking was further strengthened by a painful family history. His grandfather had once been an avid smoker, consuming a pack of cigarettes daily. Over time, his grandfather’s lungs deteriorated, turning black from the toxins in cigarettes. Riza witnessed firsthand the devastating consequences of smoking and resolved never to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps.
For him, saying “no” to smoking was saying “yes” to a healthier and more productive life. Instead of giving in to peer pressure, he participated in extracurricular activities at school, engaged in his hobbies like gaming and reading, and stayed physically active through regular exercise.
He had valuable advice for fellow youth on how to avoid smoking. He suggested steering clear of friends who smoked, engaging in positive activities like sports and hobbies, and educating oneself about the dangers of smoking by researching online. These steps empowered young people to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
His journey was a shining example of how youth could make wise choices to protect their health and chase their dreams. By choosing not to smoke, he set an inspiring example for others facing similar temptations. Riza’s story reminded us all that making informed choices and prioritizing health could lead to a brighter future filled with endless possibilities. Let his story motivate youth to say “no” to smoking and “yes” to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
This article was sourced from a series of video voice, all featuring high school students from Jakarta. These videos delved into the lives, daily routines, and smoking habits of the students while shedding light on their perceptions of tobacco and tobacco marketing. To protect the anonymity and privacy of the video participant, names have been omitted in this article.
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