Students Urged to Cultivate Leadership for Future Challenges

Minister Emphasizes Competitiveness and Independence

Jakarta’s students are being called upon to sharpen their competitive edge and leadership skills to navigate the complexities of tomorrow. The focus is on developing a proactive generation ready to face global demands.

Student Organizations as Catalysts for Growth

Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar, Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment, highlighted the vital role of student organizations in fostering these essential qualities. He stated that independence is built upon a foundation of skills and entrepreneurial spirit, with leadership being the crucial enabler.

“Independence can be defined as qualities such as skills and entrepreneurial ability, and the key to all of these is leadership.”

—Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar, Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment

Iskandar expressed his hope that graduates will emerge as empowered and self-reliant individuals, better prepared to lead the nation. This drive for prepared leadership is crucial for tackling the evolving global landscape.

Sports Engagement Linked to National Well-being

The minister also applauded the rising enthusiasm for sports among today’s youth. He connected this trend to the objectives of Presidential Instruction Number 8 of 2025, which aims to reduce public spending and combat poverty.

“We are grateful that young people’s enthusiasm for sports is so much higher than in my generation, and the only way to avoid the burden of healthcare costs is through exercise.”

—Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar, Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment

Regular physical activity, he explained, can lead to lower public healthcare expenditures and a more productive populace. This aligns with national efforts to enhance public health and economic efficiency. For instance, a 2023 report by the World Health Organization indicated that countries investing in physical activity programs see significant returns in reduced healthcare costs and increased workforce productivity, with some estimates suggesting a benefit-to-cost ratio of up to 7:1 for certain interventions (WHO, 2023).

Preparing for Tomorrow’s Demands

The minister’s remarks underscore a national vision for a capable and resilient future generation. By emphasizing competitiveness, independence, and leadership, alongside the benefits of an active lifestyle, the aim is to equip students for success.