Supporting the Important Role of Youth in Making the 2024 Regional Election a Peaceful Success
By : Andika Pratama )*
The 2024 Simultaneous Regional Head Election (Pilkada) is approaching, and all eyes are focused on the importance of a peaceful and smooth implementation. In the midst of the hustle and bustle of preparations, one key element that must receive full support is youth. Indonesia’s young generation has a very important strategic role in maintaining the peace and smoothness of the regional elections, and it is time for the community to give them full support.
Youth are the backbone of the nation and agents of change. With a large number of young voters, their contribution to the 2024 Pilkada cannot be underestimated. The active involvement of youth in the election process is not just about numbers, but also about the quality of democracy that we want to achieve. They are resources that have high energy, creativity and idealism, which can bring positive change at every stage of the regional elections.
One of the main roles of youth is in fighting hoaxes and disinformation. In today’s digital era, the spread of fake news poses a serious threat to election integrity. Youth, with their technological skills and active presence on social media, can be at the forefront in educating the public about the dangers of hoaxes. They can utilize digital platforms to disseminate accurate information and encourage constructive discussions. The public needs to support this effort by trusting and disseminating information from trusted sources, as well as participating in anti-hoax campaigns initiated by youth.
Ahead of the 2024 Simultaneous Regional Elections, the role of youth in creating a peaceful atmosphere is increasingly visible. In various regions, youth enthusiasm in participating and overseeing the regional elections has increased significantly. According to a report from KBRN Bandung, the younger generation is now increasingly aware of the importance of their role in the democratic process. This can be seen from their participation in various campaigns that carry the theme of peaceful regional elections.
One of the concrete steps taken by young people is to socialize the dangers of hoaxes to the community. Hoaxes or fake news are a serious threat that can damage the integrity of elections. Youth are taking the initiative to educate the public through open discussion forums and social media platforms.
Chairman of HMI Badko Sumbagtera, Gopinda Aditya Putra emphasized the important role of youth in socializing the dangers of hoaxes. He said that the discussion they held was a form of concern for the continuity of peaceful and quality regional elections.
Apart from that, young people are also expected to be active in monitoring the regional election process. Gopinda emphasized that the youth were ready to take a role in overseeing the simultaneous regional elections in November. In this way, youth not only play a role in education, but also in ensuring that each stage of the regional elections runs in accordance with applicable regulations.
In Jakarta, the Indonesian Mosque Youth Communication Agency (BKPRMI) DKI Jakarta Province together with hundreds of representatives of mosque youth management throughout Jakarta are committed to making the 2024 Pilkada a success. The 2024 Jakarta Peaceful Pilkada Declaration with the theme “My Jakarta Peaceful Harmony” is clear evidence of the youth’s contribution in creating peaceful elections.
DKI Jakarta Provincial KPU Commissioner Fahmi Zikrillah said that his party appreciated BKPRMI’s steps in supporting preparations for the regional elections. According to him, BKPRMI has a strategic position in ensuring the smooth process of selecting governor and deputy governor.
The chairman of the DKI Jakarta DPW BKPRMI, Nanang Jahidin, emphasized the commitment of the millennial generation in supporting peaceful regional elections. Nanang invited all levels of Jakarta society to actively participate in the 2024 Pilkada. He emphasized the importance of using the right to vote wisely and supporting candidates who have integrity and competence. The presence of community figures and officials in the declaration showed full support for the youth initiative in making the regional elections a success.
Youth is the main pillar in nation building. With a significant number of young voters, they have great potential in determining the direction of policy and the future of Indonesia. The active involvement of youth in the regional election process not only ensures the sustainability of democracy, but also encourages the creation of leaders of quality and integrity.
The role of youth in regional elections also reflects collective awareness to maintain national unity and unity. In facing various issues and challenges, youth become agents of change who bring a positive spirit and innovation. Their active participation in the regional elections, from anti-hoax campaigns to monitoring the election process, shows that the young generation is ready to take on big responsibilities for a better future.
The 2024 Simultaneous Pilkada is an important moment in Indonesian democracy, and the role of youth is crucial in ensuring this process runs peacefully and with quality. From socializing the dangers of hoaxes to monitoring the course of regional elections, young people show high commitment and responsibility. Peaceful declarations and active participation in various initiatives are clear evidence of their contribution.
To achieve peaceful and smooth regional elections, all elements of society must unite. Society needs to see youth as strategic partners and provide full support to them. This support can be realized in various forms, ranging from trust, cooperation, to providing the necessary resources. With strong support, youth can contribute optimally, ensuring that the 2024 Pilkada runs safely, orderly and produces quality leaders.
*The author is a contributor to Jabar Trigger