Presiden Jokowi Delivers a Speech to Commemorate 93rd Indonesian Youth Pledge Day

During the commemoration of the 93rd Youth Pledge Day, Thursday (28/10/2021), Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) said that age is not a limitation  in order to stay young.  

“The young must continue to equip themselves with the latest, the newest. The previous generation must continue to rejuvenate themselves, adopting new ways of thinking and working,” said the President through a video uploaded on the Cabinet Secretariat's YouTube channel. 

In today's digital era, youth have a central role to become leaders of change. Youth is the biggest strength of the demographic bonus of the Indonesian people who have the courage to take risks and seize opportunities, and are innovative.

President Jokowi delivers a speech to commemorate 93rd Youth Pledge Day. (Photo: Cabinet Secretariat)

The President said that the achievements of Indonesian youth, such as the growth of successful start-ups to become global players, are evidence of the strength of youth. In addition, the work and achievements of the nation's brightest children in the global arena are also increasing. 

“The works of young Indonesian musicians and artists who have a world reputation are increasing and increasing. The great achievements of our youth athletes make the nation proud," he continued.

In a world full of disruption, the President stated that now is the time for young people to become leaders to win the competition. It's time for youth to become leaders who dare to take the initiative, but remain humanist.

"Leaders who want to continue to learn from anyone, about anything, and more importantly leaders who are ready to contribute to the progress of Indonesia," he explained. 

The Head of State understands that not all young Indonesians have the same opportunity to enjoy higher education, understand a world full of disruption, understand where the world is going, and understand the latest developments in science and technology. 

However, Indonesian youth must share information, knowledge, and skills with each other so that all Indonesian children can make a greater contribution to humanity and the progress of the nation. “That is the essence of leadership. Leadership is helping those who are not capable to become capable and helping those who  are already capable to become even more capable," he said. 

The Significance of Youth Pledge Day

The Youth Pledge (Indonesian: Sumpah Pemuda) was a declaration made on 28 October 1928 by young Indonesian nationalists in the Second Youth Congress. They proclaimed three ideals; one motherland, one nation and one language.

It was a landmark event in the country's history and also is considered the founding moment of the Indonesian language. The event is seen as part of Indonesia national awakening. The role of the Indonesian youths during proclamation of independence on August 17th, 1945 was historically recognized.