Youth Pledge Day, Puan: Now Challenges Are Not Opponents Of Physical Colonialism, But Maintain Common Sense

Puan Maharani. (Instagram @puanmaharani)

JAKARTA - Coinciding with Youth Pledge Day, the Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Puan Maharani, stated that currently the challenges of young people are no longer fighting against physical colonialism, but fighting against common sense amid the onslaught of digitalization.

Puan emphasized that the commemoration of Youth Pledge Day 2025 was not just a historical moment to commemorate the national pledge on October 28, 1928, but a collective reflection of the position and responsibility of the younger generation in guarding the future of Indonesian democracy.

'History proves, from the Youth Pledge to Reform, the great change of this nation is always initiated by the courage of young people. Now, the challenge is no longer a struggle against physical colonialism, but a struggle to maintain common sense, digital ethics, and public morality in a democratic life," said Puan in her statement, Tuesday, October 28.

In the commemoration of the 97th Anniversary of the Youth Pledge entitled 'Young Youth Youths Move, United Indonesia', Puan assessed that the spirit of togetherness and collaboration across generations is the key to maintaining the direction of the nation's journey in the midst of rapid social, political and digital changes.

"In the era of information and technology disclosure, youth involvement in public spaces must be directed at strengthening national values, social awareness, and control over state policies in order to continue to side with the people," said Puan.

Puan also reminded the need for the State to ensure that the rights of the younger generation are fulfilled, including the right to education, adequate health services, guarantees for getting jobs, and obtaining various protections.

"How important is the protection for youth to live freely, but still be responsible. More importantly, youth must be free from online gambling practices, free from all violent practices, and free from discrimination," said the former Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture.

Puan also emphasized that the DPR and the younger generation are partners in maintaining the future of the nation. The DPR as a people's representation institution is sure to open the widest possible space for the younger generation to participate in the process of legislation, supervision, and national development.

"Together with youth, the DPR RI has the spirit to guard democracy and together maintain the future of the nation," said Puan.

Puan advised that young people must have the courage to speak up, but also be responsible. In the context of national development, Puan also reminded Indonesian youth not to be spectators in the midst of the transformation of the nation.

"Innovation, research, entrepreneurship, and social leadership are spaces for actualization for the younger generation to answer the challenges of the times. Starting from climate change,"

"Technological disruption, to social inequality," explained Puan.

Puan also stated her commitment to continue fighting for policies that provide space for empowering youth. Such as expanding access to education, supporting the creative and digital economy, as well as policies that protect the rights of the younger generation in the digital space and the world of work.

"The DPR RI and youth must go hand in hand. We not only remember the oath that was pronounced in 1928, but reiterated it in the form of real actions today," he said.

"Congratulations on commemorating the 97th Youth Pledge Day for all Indonesian youths. Let's maintain unity, strengthen democracy, and build the future of a sovereign, just and progressive nation," concluded Puan.