Indonesia is poised for a demographic boom, with a surge in its productive population by 2024. This “Golden Era,” however, hinges on one crucial factor: preparing a generation equipped with the skills and character to navigate the future. Secretary General of Muhammadiyah Abdul Mu’ti issued a stark warning during a Ramadan study session. If this generation is not nurtured properly, the nation risks becoming “Anxious Indonesia” instead of the prosperous “Golden Indonesia” by 2045.
Mu’ti grounded his call in Islamic principles. The Quran, he pointed out, forbids leaving behind weak generations. Similarly, Prophet Muhammad emphasized the importance of strength, both physical and spiritual.
“This enables us to achieve greatness, glory, and construct a magnificent civilization. A nation with a vast population can truly become great if its generations are strong and exceptional,” said Mu’ti.
Strong believers, Mu’ti argued, are better equipped to handle life’s challenges. They possess a positive mental attitude and resilience, acting as a buffer against despair and even suicide – a growing concern that transcends economic hardship. Faith, he explained, reminds us of a higher power, offering solace and the strength to persevere.
However, strength goes beyond faith. Physical health is equally vital. Indonesia’s high stunting rate necessitates addressing this issue to build a generation with the necessary physical foundation.
Knowledge serves as another pillar. Mu’ti stressed the importance of educating a generation that is well-rounded, possessing “general knowledge ability.” This adaptability will prove invaluable in a constantly evolving job market. He further emphasized the 21st-century imperative of fostering “soft skills 4C”: critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration. These skills, coupled with problem-solving abilities, are crucial for fostering “agile leadership” – leaders who can adapt, communicate effectively, and find solutions.
Finally, Mu’ti underscored the importance of moral strength. Technical expertise alone is insufficient. Success hinges on individuals who possess strong moral compass and ethical values. He even suggested that emotional intelligence, often referred to as EQ, may play a more significant role in achieving success than pure intellectual intelligence (IQ), especially when further strengthened by spiritual intelligence.
In essence, Mu’ti’s message is a call to action. By nurturing a generation that is strong in faith, physical health, knowledge, essential skills, and moral character, Indonesia can truly unlock the potential of its Golden Era and build a brighter future for all.
