MEDAN | INDATANEWS.COM – A lively and cheerful atmosphere filled the PKK Building in Medan on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, as Medan Mayor Rico Tri Putra Bayu Waas, popularly known as Rico Waas, engaged children through an interactive quiz session during a mass circumcision event organized by the Sah-Rizki Community.
Laughter, applause, and words of encouragement echoed throughout the venue as Rico personally greeted the young participants ahead of the medical procedure. His warm and approachable interaction helped ease the anxiety of many children, transforming nervous anticipation into excitement.
The social event also featured a blood donation drive, a small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) bazaar, and the distribution of assistance to single mothers.
Interactive Quiz Boosts Children's ConfidenceShortly after arriving at the venue, Rico Waas immediately connected with the children.
"Are you all ready?" he asked.
"Ready!" the children responded enthusiastically in unison.
Through light-hearted questions and friendly conversations, the mayor successfully created a relaxed atmosphere. The children, who initially appeared tense, gradually became more comfortable and confident.
A total of 42 children participated in the mass circumcision program.
MUHAMMAD RIDHO ANSWERS QUESTIONS FROM RICO WAAS: Participant Muhammad Ridho responds to questions from Mayor Rico Waas about his participation in the mass circumcision program and his favorite football players in a lively and friendly atmosphere. (PHOTO: Doc, Medan City Communication and Informatics Office)
One of the most memorable moments involved 13-year-old participant Muhammad Ridho, who was invited to the front. Although he confidently mentioned his age, Ridho hesitated when asked where he lived, prompting laughter from fellow participants and guests. Parents and other children eventually helped him answer, explaining that he was from Medan Deli District.
When asked why he joined the program, Ridho replied after a brief pause:
"To stay healthy."
His answer received praise from both Rico Waas and the audience. The mayor then shifted the conversation to football, asking about his favorite players.
With growing confidence, Ridho answered, "Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Kylian Mbappé."
The response was met with enthusiastic applause.
"Be brave for the circumcision. Don't be afraid," Rico told him.
"I'm not afraid," Ridho replied confidently.
Many parents expressed appreciation for the positive atmosphere, noting that their children appeared much more relaxed before undergoing the procedure.
QUIZ BUILDS COURAGE AND CONFIDENCE: Medan Mayor Rico Waas interacts with participants through a quiz session designed to boost their confidence and reduce anxiety before the circumcision procedure. (PHOTO: Doc, Medan City Communication and Informatics Office)
Young Participant Impresses With Knowledge of MedanThe excitement continued when 12-year-old elementary school student Ali Yusuf Pasaribu took part in the quiz session.
Ali confidently introduced himself and successfully answered several questions about Medan City. When asked how many districts Medan has, he correctly answered 21 districts. He also accurately stated that the city consists of 151 urban villages.
His impressive responses earned praise from attendees and the mayor alike.
"Outstanding!" Rico Waas said.
The interaction highlighted how the event served not only as a health initiative but also as an opportunity for children to showcase their knowledge and build self-confidence.
Rico Waas Praises Sah-Rizki Community's Social CommitmentDuring the event, Rico Waas expressed his appreciation to the Sah-Rizki Community for organizing the mass circumcision program and other social initiatives.
Among those present were Sah-Rizki Chairwoman Novita Sari, representatives from various Medan City Government agencies, and district heads from across the city.
According to Rico, while mass circumcision programs are common in many parts of Indonesia, community involvement adds significant value because the benefits directly reach residents in need.
He also commended Sah-Rizki for its contributions to empowering small businesses and supporting vulnerable groups through various social programs.
Rico emphasized that mass circumcision provides not only health benefits for children but also contributes to their social and spiritual development.
"Social connections and collective activities like these should continue to be strengthened. Hopefully, they will bring lasting benefits to our children," he said.
In addition to the circumcision program, organizers distributed financial assistance to single mothers.
Concluding the event, Rico Waas thanked the organizers, medical personnel, volunteers, sponsors, and all parties involved for ensuring the success of the program. He expressed hope that similar initiatives would continue to reach more residents across Medan while strengthening collaboration between government institutions, community organizations, businesses, and the public. (IDNC)
REPORTER: Teguh Panjaitan | EDITOR: Fik Sagala