Medan – Another remarkable achievement has been accomplished by a member of the academic community of the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FK USU). Yemima Mutiara Caren Sitanggang, an FK USU student representing Deli Serdang Regency, was crowned Putri Otonomi Indonesia (POI) 2026 during the Grand Final held at Graha Bhinneka Perkasa Jaya on Thursday (2 July 2026). This accomplishment is a source of great pride for FK USU.
The Putri Otonomi Indonesia 2026 competition brought together 19 finalists representing regencies and cities across Indonesia. The competition evaluated not only the contestants' appearance but also their communication skills, leadership, national awareness, and ability to promote the potential of their respective regions. During the quarantine period, all finalists participated in training sessions covering leadership, public communication, regional promotion, national insight, and state defense values to prepare them as competitive young leaders capable of contributing to national development.
Before being crowned Putri Otonomi Indonesia 2026, Yemima first earned the Favorite Princess title by receiving the highest number of votes in the online public voting. This achievement also secured her a golden ticket to the Top Four alongside three other finalists.
Following the final round of evaluations, the panel of judges named Yemima Mutiara Caren Sitanggang as Putri Otonomi Indonesia 2026. The title of First Runner-Up was awarded to Annabelle Malianglay (North Minahasa Regency), Second Runner-Up to Asyifa Nada Ashila Sulhi (Jember Regency), and Third Runner-Up to Cinta Kasih Sayang Helena (South Tangerang City).
This achievement also reflects FK USU's commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), by fostering students' character, leadership, and competencies.
Yemima's accomplishment demonstrates that FK USU students excel not only academically but also contribute through leadership, public communication, and community engagement at the national level. It is hoped that this success will inspire all students to continue developing their potential, bring honor to the institution, and make meaningful contributions to the nation's development.