Bappenas Presses Importance of Pesantren in Development Efforts Towards Golden Indonesia 2045 Vision

JAKARTA – To support the Golden Indonesia 2045 Vision, as outlined in Law no. 59/2024 on the 2025-2045 National Long-Term Development Plan (RPJPN), the Ministry of National Development Planning/Bappenas pressed the important roles that Islamic boarding schools (Pesantren) and its students play in development. 

The Minister of National Development Planning/Head of Bappenas Rachmat Pambudy stated that the role of pesantren in national development is very important as they contribute effectively as a pillar of education and local empowerment. 

“Pesantren have the ability to produce educated Muslims who contribute significantly to the intellectual advancement of the nation and the development of a democratic, inclusive society. Pesantren have also produced capable graduates who have transformed into a strong Muslim middle class, actively participating in socio-economic development and strengthening community welfare,” explained Minister Rachmat at the 12th Bachelor’s Degree Graduation Ceremony and 16th Anniversary of Sunan Drajat Islamic Boarding School Institute on Sunday (10/11).

To strengthen the pesantren economy, the Ministry of National Development Planning/Bappenas is also promoting the development of *Santripreneur* programs to foster entrepreneurial spirit among students. According to Minister Rachmat, data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor in 2022 shows that 33.26 percent of Indonesians aspire to entrepreneurship, a figure higher than the global average of 22.33 percent. “Pesantren have the potential to serve as business incubation hubs, producing new entrepreneurs who are adaptive, creative, innovative, and have strong character,” added Minister Rachmat.

Bappenas has also developed the 2025-2045 Indonesia Education Roadmap as a commitment to improving the quality of education in pesantren. This includes enhancing facilities, upgrading the competence of educators, and ensuring education quality. Additionally, the Ministry has launched the Fikih SDGs program, encouraging pesantren to contribute to achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs) through initiatives in education, religious outreach (dakwah), and economic empowerment.

With optimal collaboration and support, Bappenas is confident that pesantren can play a significant role in achieving national development goals and advancing the Golden Indonesia 2045 Vision. “The students occupy a strategic position in national development. Pesantren are not just centers of Islamic education but also platforms for economic empowerment of the Muslim community,” concluded Minister Rachmat.