'Young People Need Space For Expression, Not Repression'

jpnn.com, JAKARTA - The National Leadership of the Indonesian Movement Association (PPI) delivered a statement regarding the commemoration of the 93rd Youth Pledge Day on Thursday (28/10).

In the statement, PPI Chair Andy Soebjakto and Secretary General Gede Pasek Suardika made five points representing the views of PPI on youth empowerment.

First, the history of pioneering and real contributions of young people to the nation must be maintained, cared for, and developed in accordance with the challenges of time that continue to move dynamically.

"Young people must not lose the relevance of their presence and role. Instead, they must be strengthened from time to time," reads the first point of the statement.

Second, the government is required to give real attention and support for the development of healthy and productive youth in terms of ideas and thoughts, freedom of attitude and expression, as well as real options in the respective fields of youth members.

"Young people need a fresh and healthy space for expression, not acts of repression."

Third, young people must have the courage to develop new traditions or new cultures that are objective, and that are rewarding achievements and the merit system, prioritizing skills and responsibilities, eliminating the remnants of feudalism and various old perspectives that hinder progress.

Fourth, young people are required to take the inspirational wisdom of the Youth Pledge to continue to strengthen their "Indonesianness".