Prabowo Highlights Youth Pledge Values, National Unity to Students

President Prabowo Subianto Friday (10/30) extended his fervent hope to all students of prestigious, semi-military boarding Taruna Nusantara High School (SMA Taruna Nusantara)  to leverage education optimally. He expressed belief that they can grow into an outstanding next generation with strong character and a deep commitment to upholding national values.

“I believe you can give your best, learn optimally, and uphold the values of SMA Taruna Nusantara,” he said in the inauguration of Cimahi Campus complex of the SMA Taruna Nusantara in West Java province.

The President underscored that the spirit of nationalism taught at the school must be deeply rooted from the values of the Youth Pledge, namely one homeland, one nation, and one language. He expressed belief that the pledge proclaimed by Indonesian youth before independence was an extraordinary achievement that laid the foundation for Indonesia’s national unity.

“They were so young and capable of formulating a truly brilliant and extraordinary pledge, something we must acknowledge.” he added.

President Prabowo reminded all that unity is essential for the nation to overcome several challenges and address differences. He said that the founders of the nation passed down the spirit of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity) as the foundation of national life.

“Only through unity, only through Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, and only by acknowledging and respecting all ethnic groups, religions, races, cultures, and traditions, we can build and govern our nation properly,” he emphasized.

On that occasion, the President also stressed on the importance of learning from the country’s history, to ensure that past mistakes are not repeated.

According to him, the advancement of technology would not erode the importance of understanding the history and human nature.  He cited Indonesia’s painful experience under colonial rule, which was brought about by a lack of unity among its people. The younger generation, therefore, should learn from the divisive tactics once used by the colonizers to ensure that the mistakes of the past are not repeated.

The Head of the State also stated that various ideologies could potentially threaten national unity if they place the interests of certain groups above those of the nation. Nevertheless, the President remains optimistic that Indonesia has the strength to overcome these challenges.

“Believe in the great power of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia. Remain vigilant and we will able to overcome all challenges,” he concluded. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (RAS/AW)