JAKARTA – Maintaining a conducive digital space is a practice of the values of the Youth Pledge since October 28, 1928.
In today’s era, the spirit of unity and nationalism is tested by how the younger generation maintains ethics and togetherness in cyberspace.
The Head of the Master of Political Science Study Program at Wijaya Kusuma University Surabaya, Dr. Drs. H. Darsono, M.Sc., emphasized that the spirit of the Youth Pledge must be revived in a digital context.
“Now, that spirit needs to be revitalized in a digital context, as the boundaries of space and time become blurred, while national identities often dissolve in global currents,” he said.
Darsono believes that digital space creates new forms of social and political interaction that are full of dynamics—from polarization due to echo chambers to the rise of disinformation.
However, he sees a huge opportunity for the younger generation to utilize technology to strengthen cross-generational solidarity.
“Youth in the digital era must become digital citizens with character, be information and technology literate, and be wise in using social media,” said Darsono.
“Use digital space to strengthen nationality, not divide us,” he stressed.
In line with this, the Expert Staff for Central, Regional, and International Relations of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Suyadi Pawiro, said that the reflection of the values of the Youth Pledge does not stop at the ceremony, but in the behavior of the younger generation in cyberspace.
“The Youth Pledge must continue to be a reflection and a reflection for the younger generation to enhance nationalism, unity, and creativity in the future, including in the digital space that is now part of everyday life,” he said.
Suyadi added that the Ministry of Youth and Sports continues to strengthen digital literacy for youth to be at the forefront of maintaining a safe, peaceful, and productive social space.
The momentum of the 97th commemoration of the Youth Pledge, with the theme “Young Men and Women Moving, Indonesia United,” is a symbol of a new commitment to maintaining the nation’s integrity.
Meanwhile, women’s activist and researcher Dr. Edriana emphasized the importance of digital literacy for young people to avoid being trapped by the flow of misleading information.
“We’re familiar with digital media, but we often misuse it. Generation Z must understand media algorithms and remember history, because it embodies the spirit of unity,” he said.
According to Edriana, the spirit of the Youth Pledge now demands a new form of struggle: maintaining unity in the real world as well as vigilance in the virtual world.
He believes that society is the key to creating conducive conditions amidst global challenges and the torrent of digital provocation.
Maintaining a healthy and harmonious digital space is not simply a matter of communication ethics, but a manifestation of the values of the Youth Pledge transformed into a national spirit in the digital era. (*)
