By: Wari – Editorial Board, JayaNews.Com.
Today’s youth are not merely the nation’s successors; they are the primary drivers of social change. History shows that from the Youth Pledge (Sumpah Pemuda) of 1928 to the Reformasi (Reform) movement of 1998, it has always been the youth who stood at the forefront whenever the nation required a new direction.
Amidst challenges such as the climate crisis, the digital divide, and the degradation of social values, the big question remains: are the youth still capable of moving the world? The answer is yes—and it is already happening.
The Role of Youth as a Catalyst for Change.
Indonesia’s younger generation currently stands at a pivotal moment in history. Armed with a demographic bonus, passion, innovation, and courage, the youth serve as the driving force behind social, economic, and cultural transformation.
Young people are no longer just passive observers on social media; they have become pioneers of concrete action—ranging from environmental movements, the development of practical, appropriate technology, and social entrepreneurship, to the strengthening of democracy at the village level. When youth are actively involved in organizations, communities, and public policy, their energy has the power to reshape the nation’s future.
Education, collaboration, and inclusive leadership are essential to ensuring that the energy of the youth does not fade, but instead continues to contribute to the nation.
Religious Teachings: Unity and Service.
Religious teachings consistently emphasize the importance of unity, mutual cooperation (*gotong royong*), and service to others. These values provide a foundation for young people to act with integrity, respect differences, and foster togetherness amidst diversity.
In the national context, service is not merely a duty—it is an act of devotion (*ibadah*). When the youth unite under the banner of peaceful and tolerant religious values, they form a robust social force capable of safeguarding the unity of Indonesia.
The spirit of “United in Service” is a tangible expression of faith put into action. More than just words—it is about tangible action: serving, embracing others, and spreading kindness within the community.
The Story of the Bojongsari Youth Movement – The “United in Service” (Bersatu dalam Pengabdian) Program.
In Bojongsari, Indramayu, a group of young people has proven that even small actions can create a significant impact. Through their “United in Service” program, these youths organize entrepreneurship training, neighborhood clean-ups, and literacy classes for local children.
The initiative was born out of a shared concern regarding limited access to education and employment opportunities. Today, hundreds of young people are involved as volunteers, driving social activities every single week.
“We want to be part of the solution, not just critics,” says one of the coordinators. This story serves as an example of how a grassroots youth movement can become an inspiration on a national scale.
The momentum of Youth Pledge Day (Sumpah Pemuda) on October 28, 2026, should serve as a reminder: when young people unite and commit themselves to service, villages will prosper, the nation will grow stronger, and the world itself can be set in motion.
Young people have the power to move the world—provided they are first willing to move themselves toward a life of service.
Indramayu, Wednesday, October 28, 2026
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