109th Anniversary of Soemitro Djojohadikusumo Marks Intellectual Reflection on National Challenges
To mark the 109th anniversary of Prof. Dr. Soemitro Djojohadikusumo, The Kertanegara Institute hosted a private session titled ‘The Relevance of Thought in Indonesia’s Development Direction’. The forum served as an intellectual space to revisit Prof. Soemitro’s legacy and its relevance to current national development challenges.
The event also encouraged the younger generation to re-examine the nation’s major ideas amid ongoing societal changes. In his opening remarks, Raga Awandayu Prakasa V G, Founder and Chairman of The Kertanegara Institute, highlighted the session as an opportunity to reflect on Prof. Soemitro’s intellectual contributions, particularly their continued relevance for today’s youth.
He emphasised that Prof. Soemitro exemplified the courage to think ahead, delve deeper, and prepare benefits that may only be realised by future generations.
Keynote speaker Rahayu Saraswati Djojohadikusumo underscored that Prof. Soemitro’s greatest legacy lies not only in his economic concepts but also in a mindset that views development as a national endeavour delivering tangible benefits to society. She stressed that, in his perspective, economics is not merely about numbers and macro growth but ensuring development benefits the wider population.
Rahayu also noted Indonesia’s current transformation phase requires the best contributions from young minds. Amid intensifying global competition and evolving geopolitics, she argued that development and industrialisation must prioritise concrete benefits for ordinary citizens. She further highlighted the importance of local development initiatives, including at village level, in strengthening national self-reliance.
Nehemia Lawalata, who previously worked with Prof. Soemitro on political and economic matters, enriched the discussion by stressing the need to preserve collective national memory of figures foundational to Indonesia’s development. He also advocated for recognising Margono Djojohadikusumo’s historical role in the country’s banking sector.
Aldila Septiadi of the Indonesia Roundtable of Young Economists (IN.RY) provided a contemporary youth perspective on national development challenges. The discussion was moderated by Yogi Syahputra, Executive Director of The Kertanegara Institute, ensuring a reflective and substantive dialogue. (H-3)