VP Gibran Praises Role of Islamic Boarding Schools in Integrating Entrepreneurship and National Values

Indonesian Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka officially opened the 47th annual Permata Cinta Alam Indonesia (Permata CAI) camp, emphasizing the crucial role of Islamic boarding schools, known as pesantren, in shaping the nation's youth. Speaking at the event in Jombang, East Java, on June 29, 2026, he highlighted how institutions like Pondok Pesantren Gadingmangu successfully blend religious education with national values and entrepreneurial skills.

"I appreciate Pondok Pesantren Gadingmangu for consistently organizing Permata CAI as a space for youth development," Gibran stated. He commended the curriculum, which includes national insights, defense, law, ethics, and entrepreneurship, for fostering a generation that is "principled, independent, and has integrity." The Vice President stressed the importance of instilling an entrepreneurial spirit early on to equip young Indonesians for the nation's upcoming demographic bonus, projected between 2030 and 2045, when approximately 80 percent of the population will be of productive age.

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I appreciate Pondok Pesantren Gadingmangu for consistently organizing Permata CAI as a space for youth development. The material provided, from national insights, defense, law, ethics, to entrepreneurship, is very good for shaping a generation that is principled, independent, and has integrity.

During the event, attended by 2,000 alumni and students, Gibran also visited an SME exhibition. He took particular interest in the Al Qomar Bakery stall, recognizing its success in leveraging digital marketing. "A business model like this needs to be a model for other pesantren. Good products must be supported by digital marketing to be able to grow and strengthen the economic independence of the pesantren," he remarked.

Addressing participants from across Indonesia and abroad, Vice President Gibran urged the younger generation to become agents of change, promoting unity within society. The Permata CAI camp is seen as a vital initiative in preparing Indonesia for its future demographic dividend, ensuring that its young population is well-equipped with the necessary skills and values for national progress.

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A business model like this needs to be a model for other pesantren. Good products must be supported by digital marketing to be able to grow and strengthen the economic independence of the pesantren.