MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA – President of Muhammadiyah Haedar Nashir calls on Indonesian youth to draw inspiration from the generation of the 1928 Youth Pledge (Sumpah Pemuda). Haedar highlighted their patriotism, idealism, nationalism, and forward-thinking vision.
“The 1928 youth had a strong sense of ‘futuwah,’ a knightly spirit of statesmanship that prioritized the nation and country over personal and group interests. They were not tempted by material wealth or power for the sake of Indonesia. They were pioneers of a united Indonesia: one language, one homeland, one nation,” said Haedar on Saturday, October 28.
Haedar acknowledged the potential of today’s youth, highlighting the easiness of which young people can achieve material success and social status in today’s world. Haedar also expressed his concern about today’s youth. They can easily and instantly get a position or become famed. He cautioned against the dangers of materialism, hedonism, and a lack of integrity.
“Don’t be a generation without the sense of nationalism and the spirit of ‘futuwah’ in nation-building. Don’t be trapped in hedonism, materialism, and power-seeking without integrity, idealism, and a broad vision. Besides, don’t become a generation of ‘androids,’ living like robots and machines without caring for others,” emphasized Haedar.
Haedar also urged young people to avoid arrogance and dependency to the nation. Youth may not always be dependent on their parents, leading to self-dependence. Youth may not chase popularity and cheap populism, lacking dedication, intelligence, and authentic personal qualities.
Indonesia is facing complex challenges today and in the future. This nation needs youth who stand firm on their ideals and principles. They should be religious, Pancasila-believing, intelligent, skilled, and capable of playing an active role in society, the nation, and the global community.
“A generation truly worthy of shaping Indonesia’s future is one that is deeply committed to achieving a united, sovereign, just, and prosperous nation in the modern era, reflecting the noble vision of the country’s founders and the spirit of the 1928 generation,” said Haedar.
Haedar acknowledged that today’s youth, particularly Gen Z, may have different values and lifestyles compared to previous generations. However, he emphasized the importance of upholding fundamental values such as religion, Pancasila, and Indonesian culture.
“Be a generation of Indonesian youth who have the fundamental values of our beloved country. Don’t become a lost generation, disconnected from the basic values of life and Indonesian identity. Embrace a deep understanding of national values and knowledge, and avoid falling into a crisis of national awareness or a quarter-life crisis,” emphasized.
Haedar also addressed the issue of the “sandwich generation” that young people feel pressured to support both their parents and their own families. They expect to be financially efficient, but they become increasingly isolated from their families, particularly their parents, whom they should honor and respect.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining strong family ties and upholding traditional values while navigating the challenges of modern life.
“Indonesian society is built on the foundation of extended family and mutual cooperation. Therefore, don’t be young people who are asocial and lack the noble ethics of life towards their parents, relatives, and society. Humans are naturally Homo Sapiens, designed to connect with one another. Even though modern advancements might make us seem like Homo Deus, with our impressive technology, it’s essential to hold onto our humanity. We shouldn’t become like robots, devoid of understanding and compassion, while living in this vast world,” said Haedar.
