Jakarta – In line with the implementation of the leadership transition in Indonesia, the Chair of the Melanesian Youth Diplomacy Forum, Steve Mara, emphasized the importance of the role of youth in supporting the continuity of development programs launched by President Jokowi.
In his view, Indonesia’s future really depends on the active involvement of the younger generation in various aspects of development.
“I think this is a good thing that President Prabowo should also do in placing young people in providing input and suggestions directly to the President,” he said.
According to him, young people have a big responsibility to not only express their aspirations, but also take concrete steps in realizing a Golden Indonesia 2045.
Mara explained that one of the initiatives that contributed to youth participation was the formation of a special team known as special millennial staff.
“President Jokowi formed a special team called special millennial staff, many young people were involved there to provide input to the President and also become discussion partners,” he said.
Steve Mara hopes that the formation of special staff for millennials needs to be continued by President Prabowo in the same way so that young people continue to have a voice in decision making.
Steve Mara also highlighted that many young people today have innovated by establishing Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and startup businesses that can support each other.
“Many young people today have set up MSMEs, then businesses that I think can support other young people, such as startups,” he explained.
Furthermore, Mara emphasized that preparations for Golden Indonesia 2045 are not solely the government’s responsibility. He suggested that today’s youth should provide input and suggestions and enrich their knowledge as a first step in supporting the nation’s great ideals.
“Indeed, it is not only the government’s duty, but it is our duty as young people to prepare everything related to infrastructure development, as well as human resource development,” stressed Mara.
Mara added, with the presence of Vice President-elect Gibran Rakabuming Raka, who is a representative of young people, it is hoped that there will be more programs directed at the future of young people.
“We also hope, especially Mr. Vice President-elect, Mr. Gibran, that you are a representative of young people, so that there will be many programs intended for the future of young Indonesians,” he concluded.
With this hope, Steve Mara emphasized the importance of young people’s readiness to face the challenges and opportunities that will come, so that the dream of a Golden Indonesia 2045 can be realized. He believes, through collaboration between youth and the government, Indonesia can be built into a better country in the future.
