Indonesia is striving to become a strong and respected nation. A nation that is respected because its people live in prosperity, and contribute positively to the lives of other nations. The founding fathers of Indonesia, Ir. Soekarno and Dr. Mohammad Hatta, envisioned a government that: Protects the entire nation and all Indonesian blood, advances the public welfare, enriches the nation’s life, and participates in maintaining world order. This national vision was articulated by the first President and Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia in the preamble of the 1945 Constitution.
As we are less than 25 years away from celebrating 100 years of Indonesian independence, we have not yet reached the level of prosperity and development that align with the aspirations of the nation’s founders. Economic inequality remains high. There are still too many Indonesian citizens living in poverty and at risk of falling into poverty. I believe that with the natural and human resources we have, our country should not be plagued by inequality and poverty. The key is the understanding and ability of all layers of the government in managing our resources in line with the economic principles of the founding fathers. This is the historical challenge for our generation.
To achieve the eternal aspirations of the nation, continuous economic, political, welfare, and defense development is needed. The development must be built on the foundation laid out by the leaders of Indonesia, starting from President Soekarno, President Soeharto, President Habibie, President Abdurrahman Wahid, President Megawati, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, and President Joko Widodo.
Within a short period, Indonesia will reach 100 years of independence in 2045. President Joko Widodo’s government has outlined the National Long-Term Development Plan (RPJPN) that aims to achieve “Golden Indonesia” by or before 2045. To achieve “Golden Indonesia” by 2045, sustainable economic growth of 6% to 7% is needed starting from 2025. This growth needs to be supported by a strengthened role of the government in the economy and national development, in accordance with the principles of Pancasila economy.
The policies implemented by President Joko Widodo are in line with the 1945 Constitution. Regardless of one’s intentions, political struggles will not succeed if done individually. Thus, collective efforts, shared goals, and mutual understanding are far more effective. As the former contenders in the 2019 General Elections, President Joko Widodo and I share the same view, and on that basis, we are determined to work collectively to realize the founding fathers’ aspirations.
In his administration, President Joko Widodo has implemented various programs that have laid the groundwork for a strong economy and society. His achievements continue and strengthen the development initiated by past leaders such as President Soekarno, President Soeharto, President Habibie, President Abdurrahman Wahid, President Megawati, and President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.
For example, during President SBY’s era, Indonesia’s GDP per capita nearly quadrupled from $1,000 to $3,700. The debt-to-GDP ratio also dropped from over 50% to below 30%. These economic achievements were continued and strengthened in President Joko Widodo’s era.
In 2023, Indonesia’s nominal GDP reached Rp. 20,892 trillion, the highest in history. The GNI per capita also rose to US$ 4,580, the equivalent of Rp.….
