TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The young generation is an important factor in a change, in addition to the information technology. In order to support the development and preserve the nation’s commitment, it is important to involve the young people, as well as to master the ability in the information technology.
Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Ignasius Jonan delivered the statement during the 2017-2021 work meeting of the Indonesian Catholic Intellectuals Association’s Central Presidium (PP-ISKA) at the Indonesian Bishops Conference’s (KWI) building, Central Jakarta on Sunday, August 6.
The energy minister, before the Presidium members, asserted that the existence of young generation, who have a broad perspective and expert in technology, will improve the organization’s dynamics.
Jonan, who is also the honorary council of ISKA, said that the world is experiencing a massive change triggered by the revolution of digital technology. According to him, the young generation is a very important element in supporting the development of the people and the nation.
“I hope ISKA is willing to involve the young people in its organizational structure. Their existence will enrich the organization’s point of view,” Jonan said.
He cited the business tycoon from China, Jack Ma, who was rejected for so many times when applying for jobs in his younger age; he even once worked as a waiter in a hotel.
Jack Ma’s broad perspective in seeing chances in the field of technology has made him one of the richest people in the world.
ISKA central presidium chairman Hargo Mandirahardjo welcomes Jonan’s proposal. Hargo explained that one of the most important agenda for the meeting is the launch of www.jendelanasional.com website, managed by a number of young people. The launch of the website is hoped to be able to contain ideas and contribution of the intellectuals, especially those who committed to preserve the nation of Indonesia, he added.
Hargo asserted that a number of alumni from the higher educations in the country, as well as outside the country, have been participating in the improvement of the Catholic intellectuals organization.
Hargo was accompanied by ISKA’s chief of adviser Muliawan Margadana who led the discussion with Minister Jonan, who had just arrived from Yogyakarta after attending the 2017 Asian Youth Day (AYD) in the city.
Jonan also said he appreciates the three yearly agenda held by the Catholic youth from various countries in Asia. “It is really important in constructing the youth’s pluralism spirit. ISKA must take bigger part in this,” the minister added.
According to Jonan, the cultural diversity must be celebrated and not be contested.
“To me, diversity is like a flower garden. A garden full of various kind of flower is beautiful. If there is only one [species of] flower, it is called a cemetery,” said Jonan who was followed by the laugh of the attendees.
HERMIEN Y. KLEDEN
