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๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ Indonesia /Culture & Society

Surya Paloh urges strengthening national character for a progressive Indonesia

From Republika · () Indonesian

Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Named sources Context piece
  • National figure Surya Paloh urged all societal elements to strengthen national character and safeguard healthy democracy for a more advanced Indonesia.
  • He emphasized that Indonesia's natural resources and large population are significant assets but require quality human resources with strong character to be leveraged effectively.
  • The concept of "Suryapalohisme," presented in a new book, is described as a framework of values focusing on value restoration, inclusive nationalism, moral integrity, and justice-based idealism.

National figure Surya Paloh has called upon all segments of society to reinforce the nation's character and uphold healthy democratic practices, viewing these as crucial steps toward building a stronger and more advanced Indonesia. Paloh made these remarks during the launch of a book titled "Menelusuri Jejak Pengabdian dan Lahirnya Suryapalohisme" (Tracing the Footprints of Dedication and the Birth of Suryapalohisme) in Medan, presented as a tribute for his 75th birthday.

I believe we all share the same goal, which is to see Indonesia become a more advanced and stronger nation.

โ€” Surya PalohChairman of the Nasdem Party, speaking at a book launch event.

"I believe we all share the same goal, which is to see Indonesia become a more advanced and stronger nation," stated the Chairman of the Nasdem Party. Paloh highlighted Indonesia's considerable potential, including its rich natural resources, strategic geographical location, extensive coastline, fertile land, and large population. He stressed the importance of effectively utilizing these assets to achieve prosperity. However, he cautioned that natural wealth alone is insufficient without the support of a high-quality human resource base.

Natural wealth will mean nothing if it is not supported by people who have character, integrity, work ethic, discipline, sportsmanship, and a sense of responsibility.

โ€” Surya PalohSurya Paloh emphasizing the importance of human capital over natural resources.

"Natural wealth will mean nothing if it is not supported by people who have character, integrity, work ethic, discipline, sportsmanship, and a sense of responsibility," Paloh asserted. He believes that a transformation in the nation's mentality is key to progress and must be a collective effort. Paloh expressed optimism that Indonesia can become a more robust nation if all elements of society work together to strengthen national character within the democratic framework. "We must be brave enough to look at this nation's strengths and weaknesses objectively. With that, I am optimistic that Indonesia will become a better country in the future," he added.

We must be brave enough to look at this nation's strengths and weaknesses objectively. With that, I am optimistic that Indonesia will become a better country in the future.

โ€” Surya PalohSurya Paloh expressing his outlook for Indonesia's future.

The book launch also shed light on the concept of "Suryapalohisme." Paloh appreciated the book's exploration of this idea, viewing it as an acknowledgment of the values and principles he has consistently upheld in his organizational, political, and national endeavors. Book author Iskandar ST explained that Suryapalohisme is not a new ideology intended to replace the national ideology. Instead, it serves as a framework of values built upon four main pillars: value restoration, inclusive nationalism, moral integrity, and justice-based idealism. Iskandar emphasized that this concept represents Surya Paloh's consistent actions and dedication to driving change through a spirit of restoration toward a just and prosperous society.

This is based on four pillars such as value restoration, inclusive nationalism, moral integrity, and justice-based idealism.

โ€” Iskandar STAuthor Iskandar ST explaining the core components of Suryapalohisme.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.