Ananda Bersinar Movement: A Strategy to Protect the Young Generation from Narcotics

The National Narcotics Agency (BNN) of Indonesia is intensifying efforts to protect the younger generation from the dangers of narcotics. One of its key strategies is the ‘Gerakan Ananda Bersinar’ (Aksi Nasional Anti-Narkotika Dimulai dari Anak Bersih Narkotika) movement. BNN Head Komjen Pol Suyudi Ario Seto explained that the programme goes beyond education about the dangers of drugs; it also focuses on character building, strengthening self-resilience, improving life skills, and reinforcing the roles of family, schools, and the social environment. He emphasised that prevention must start early because children, even if physically healthy and well-educated, remain at risk if they lack the ability to reject narcotics. To strengthen the prevention ecosystem, BNN is collaborating with ministries such as the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to integrate an anti-narcotics curriculum into existing subjects. The agency is also initiating the strengthening of the movement through ‘Saka Anti-Narcotics’ scouting units. National data shows the prevalence of narcotics abuse currently stands at 2.11%, or approximately 4.15 million people, with the highest increase occurring among the productive young age group, who are the future drivers of national development.