JAKARTA – A national discussion organized by the National Journalists Forum (FWK) highlighted Indonesia’s future trajectory amidst various critical issues and public anxiety.
During the forum, speakers agreed on the urgent need for a critical reflection on the nation’s journey.
A.R. Loebis stated that the current moment should be optimally utilized to revisit the ideas of the nation’s founders and to reignite the spirit of nationalism among the younger generation.
He emphasized that the FWK’s purpose was not to discuss specific figures or individuals, but rather to focus purely on the direction and future of the Indonesian nation.
However, a sharp and critical tone was also voiced by the former Deputy Chairman of the Press Council, Hendry Ch. Bangun. He highlighted the performance of President Prabowo Subianto’s inner circle, noting a lack of experience in statecraft.
According to him, this situation leads presidential aides to work merely to please their superior, lacking a mature orientation toward state affairs.
This situation is considered highly dangerous, as it risks fueling public apathy due to the perception that state administrators lack competence.
The discussion also reflected the anxiety of the general public, who feel that—at 81 years of independence—the independence originally envisioned has not yet been fully experienced by the people.
A critical view emerged suggesting that while state institutions are indeed independent, achieving true independence that ensures public welfare remains a major unfinished task.
This discussion served as a reflection on Indonesia’s 81st Independence Anniversary, examining the country’s future in light of current national conditions.
Participants highlighted various issues regarding government programs—such as the MBG (Nutritious Free Meals) and KDMP initiatives—as well as law enforcement practices that appear lenient toward the powerful yet harsh on the common people. They also pointed to the increasing hardships faced by the public, driven by widespread layoffs, high unemployment, declining incomes, and rising prices for basic necessities. Present at the discussion were VOI Editor-in-Chief Iqbal Irsyad, former *Kompas* Editorial Secretary M. Nasir, and senior journalists Budi Nugraha, Tatang Suherman, Sigit Setiono, Herwan Pebriansyah, Rudi Sitompul, Elwan Charisma, Fajar Ridwan Rahmat, Junie Rakhmat, Mukhsin, and others.
Daffa Ibrahim
