Improving the Quality of Life for Youths Crucial to Achieving Golden Indonesia 2045

JAKARTA – Minister of National Development Planning/Head of Bappenas Suharso Monoarfa emphasized the importance of youth in achieving the Golden Indonesia 2045 Vision. For the minister, the youth, being the agents of change, are crucial for the nation's progress. They must have a good quality of life to enhance productivity and drive sustainable economic growth. Therefore, investment in human resource development is crucial to realize the Golden Indonesia 2045 Vision. 

"To all youths, I implore you to please prioritize your health first, as it is crucial. After being healthy, focus on being educated. Only then can you be productive," Minister Suharso stated in his opening remarks at the Indonesia Future Network discussion on Monday (10/5).

Currently, Indonesian youths face various challenges in education, health, and employment sectors. Despite their significant potential as a demographic bonus, Indonesia is shadowed by vulnerable health conditions among its youths. In 2023, one out of four youths are smokers, accounting for 24.75 percent of the total youth population in Indonesia. In 2022, two out of 100 individuals aged 15-24 years have used Narcotics, Psychotropic Substances, and Addictive Substances.

Moreover, employment remains a critical issue that needs addressing to improve youth participation in achieving the Golden Indonesia 2045 Vision. Currently, youth participation in the labor force is suboptimal. In 2023, one out of four youths are neither working, attending school, nor taking courses, which equals 25.8 percent of Indonesian youth. Minister Suharso highlighted the need to improve Indonesia's Human Development Index to support increased youth participation in the workforce, including through equitable education and standardized healthcare across Indonesia. "One of these is the standardization of education and healthcare in Indonesia," added Minister Suharso.

Therefore, the Indonesia Future Network is expected to serve as a platform for young future leaders to discuss with stakeholders in addressing future challenges, including enhancing the role of youth. "These challenges of young people need to be addressed using approaches by young people themselves, because if the approach is solely from the government, it may not fully understand the needs of the youth," Minister Suharso concluded.