Astra Encourages Young Innovators in Eastern Indonesia to Become Agents of Change
PT Astra International Tbk has officially launched the roadshow for the 17th SATU Indonesia Awards 2026 in Makassar, South Sulawesi. Embracing the theme ‘Connected in Action’, this search for young innovators aims to tap into the vast potential of millions of young people in Eastern Indonesia to become agents of change who provide solutions for society. The event was attended by over 500 participants, including university students, social activists, and young entrepreneurs, alongside national judges such as YARSI University Rector Prof. Fasli Jalal and Founder of Young On Top Billy Boen.
Astra’s Chief of Corporate Affairs, Boy Kelana Soebroto, explained that Makassar was chosen due to the significant youth demographic on Sulawesi Island, which numbers 5.2 million people or approximately 7.89% of the national youth population. ‘The large number of young people in South Sulawesi is a strength that must be continuously supported. Through the theme Connected in Action, Astra aims to provide a space for the younger generation to meet, share experiences, and strengthen collaboration so that their ideas can develop into a broader impact,’ he stated on Thursday (25/6/2026).
This demographic potential is further bolstered by strong macroeconomic indicators. According to Statistics Indonesia (BPS), South Sulawesi’s economy grew rapidly by 6.88% in the first quarter of 2026, making it the province with the sixth-highest economic growth nationally. In a written address delivered by Assistant I to the Provincial Secretary Dr. H. M. Ishak Iskandar, South Sulawesi Governor Andi Sudirman Sulaiman expressed hope that the event would spark more innovations rooted in local wisdom. ‘Amidst current development challenges, we need young people who possess social awareness, creativity, and the courage to deliver solutions. Through the SATU Indonesia Awards, I hope the youth of South Sulawesi are inspired to turn their ideas into real action,’ he said.
To date, South Sulawesi has produced 30 recipients of the SATU Indonesia Awards, comprising 4 national-level and 26 provincial-level awardees. The SATU Indonesia Awards represent Astra’s ongoing commitment to identifying youth contributions across five key sectors: health, education, the environment, entrepreneurship, and technology. Registration for the 17th edition is open from 1 April to 1 August 2026. Astra has confirmed that national-level awardees will receive development funding of Rp65 million and an intensive mentoring programme to help scale the social impact of their innovations.