By: Cut Naila Febriana )*
The Aneuk Muda Aceh Excellent and Great (AMANAH) program, which is increasingly showing positive progress, is increasingly showing pride and enthusiasm. This program is not just a development initiative, but also a symbol of hope and the awakening of Aceh’s young generation who is full of potential.
Aceh has extraordinary cultural heritage and natural wealth. However, so far this potential has often been marginalized by the current of modernization which does not always support the preservation of local culture. The AMANAH program initiated by the State Intelligence Agency (BIN) exists as a bridge that connects the past and the future, bringing Aceh’s cultural richness to the surface and empowering Acehnese youth to cultivate this potential creatively and innovatively.
The AMANAH program has succeeded in becoming a driving force for the preservation and development of Acehnese culture through a modern approach that still respects traditional values. AMANAH also plays an important role in shaping the identity of Aceh’s young generation. With various activities that actively involve youth, AMANAH provides space for them to express themselves, develop their potential, and build relationships with others. The most obvious example is how AMANAH embraces traditional dance arts with a touch of innovation through auditions held ahead of the inauguration of the AMANAH Building.
Denny Malik, a well-known choreographer who is the main judge in this audition, explained that the dance concept that will be performed at the inauguration of the AMANAH Building combines elements of traditional Acehnese arts and culture with a modern touch. This collaboration between traditional and modern cultural elements shows that Acehnese culture can not only survive, but also develop and compete in the era of globalization, which in fact is a form of AMANAH’s commitment to maintaining the uniqueness of Acehnese culture while accommodating the needs of the times.
Apart from that, collaboration with young designers and models from AMANAH Youth Top Models shows that this program is truly a platform for the young generation to express their talent and creativity. This art performance will not only be entertainment, but also a wider promotion of Acehnese culture.
This program not only involves preserving culture in the narrow sense, but also invites Acehnese youth to use social media as a promotional tool. Through social media, Aceh’s young generation is encouraged to introduce the uniqueness and potential of their region, both in the form of art, culinary and tourism. This effort will not only increase public awareness of the beauty and richness of Aceh, but also open up new economic opportunities for local youth.
Apart from focusing on arts and culture, AMANAH is also committed to improving the community’s economy through empowering the creative economy. One of the programs is handicraft training for youth in Pidie, which is expected to increase the competitiveness of local products in the wider market. This proves that this program not only focuses on developing technical skills, but also provides economic opportunities for the people of Aceh. Thus, this program plays an important role in creating an independent and sustainable economic ecosystem.
No less important is AMANAH’s focus on empowering young farmers. With assistance from the government and support from the latest agricultural technology, young farmers in Aceh are being trained to become more productive and innovative. As reviewed by the Acting Regent of South Aceh, Cut Syazalisma, in Gampong Baro, Pasie Raja District, this program provides great encouragement for young farmers to apply modern agricultural technology and methods. Farmers are given an understanding of how to manage land efficiently and maximize agricultural yields, such as planting high-quality DK 95 R corn varieties and Beni Azuma sweet potatoes which have high selling value.
Cut Syazalisma is also committed to supporting through monitoring, mentoring and collaboration with related agencies to ensure the success of the Amanah program. This approach shows that AMANAH does not only focus on physical development, but also on sustainable human resource development. By preparing strong and capable young farmers, Aceh will have a new generation ready to face the challenges of globalization and ensure food independence in the future.
The AMANAH program is a big step towards a brighter future. By combining technology, culture and creativity, AMANAH is paving the way for Acehnese youth to achieve achievements in various fields. This program is also proof that Aceh has extraordinary potential that is ready to be explored and developed, as long as there is consistent support and a clear vision.
However, this program cannot run alone, so collaboration is needed from all parties, including government, private sector and society, to ensure that initiatives like this continue and develop. With the right support, AMANAH can become a successful development model, not only for Aceh, but also for other regions in Indonesia.
The AMANAH program is a symbol of revival and new hope for Aceh. Through this program, Aceh’s young generation is encouraged to explore their own and regional potential, and contribute to sustainable development. As a youth, you must feel proud and fully support this initiative, because the future of Aceh is in the hands of the youth. Let’s work together to make Aceh a superior, great region and able to compete on the national and international stage.
)* The author is an Acehnese student