ACEH – President Joko Widodo inaugurated the Amanah Youth Creative Hub in Aceh Besar on October 15, 2024. This building is present as a place for the development of creativity and innovation of Acehnese youth and is proof of the government’s commitment to supporting the role of the younger generation in economic and social development. In his speech, President Jokowi expressed his appreciation for the enthusiasm and hard work of Acehnese youth who have produced various superior products, such as Aceh Patchouli and Lamno coffee, which are now known in the international market.
In his remarks, President Jokowi emphasized that the Amanah Youth Creative Hub was the result of his thoughts, born from the desire to provide space for young people in Aceh to develop. “This building is not only a symbol, but also a home for young people in Aceh to develop their innovations. Development must be equitable, and Aceh has great potential that we must support,” said President Jokowi.
The main highlight of this inauguration is the creative products produced by Acehnese youth through the Amanah program. Aceh Patchouli, one of the superior products, is now exported to a well-known perfume company in France. In addition, Lamno coffee, which was once dim, has now succeeded in penetrating the Korean and Japanese markets. President Jokowi also emphasized the importance of utilizing modern technology, such as the use of drones for precision agriculture, to support the productivity and competitiveness of local commodities.
Head of the State Intelligence Agency (BIN), Police General (ret.) Prof. Dr. Budi Gunawan, SH, M.Sc., Ph.D, praised President Jokowi’s steps in realizing the Amanah Youth Creative Hub. He emphasized that this building is one of the great legacies that will continue to benefit Acehnese youth. “President Jokowi has built from Sabang to Merauke, and this AMANAH Building is real evidence of his commitment to Acehnese youth. The products produced here have gone international, and this is the beginning of a stronger Acehnese economy,” said Budi Gunawan.
Moreover, AMANAH Building also produces various technological innovations, such as electric vehicles, fiber ships, and components for agricultural and industrial technology. The Head of BIN also explained that this building has succeeded in cutting the supply chain that previously relied on materials from outside the region, so that production costs become more efficient.
President Jokowi hopes that the Amanah Youth Creative Hub can be a source of inspiration for young people in Aceh to continue to innovate and contribute to the progress of the region. “With the support and cooperation of all parties, I am sure that Aceh can become a center for the creative economy that is not inferior to other regions. I hope this building will be a home for young people in Aceh to continue to create new and useful things,” he said.
The inauguration ended with a visit by President Jokowi and Budi Gunawan to a number of stands displaying creative products of Acehnese youth. They interacted directly with the youth, giving encouragement for this program to continue and become a milestone for the progress of the creative economy in Aceh.