At HIPMI National Conference, Prabowo Stresses Nationalism as Foundation for Economic Progress

Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto, in his opening address at the 18th National Conference (Munas) of the Indonesian Young Entrepreneurs Association (HIPMI), stressed that the spirit of nationalism is the main factor and a crucial foundation that determines a nation’s economic progress and growth. “There is actually no progress for a nation without nationalism, there is none. Even the grand old men of capitalism, the teachers of capitalism themselves, say that economic growth can only come with nationalism,” said President Prabowo at the event held in Bandar Lampung, Lampung Province, on Wednesday. The President considers the existence of HIPMI as a forum for young entrepreneurs to hold important meaning for Indonesia’s future. Prabowo’s presence at the forum also reaffirms the government’s support for the organisation’s strategic role in producing a generation of competitive entrepreneurs. The opening ceremony of the national conference was marked by the President striking a traditional Lampung musical instrument. In the procession, the President was accompanied by several senior figures of the organisation along with the candidates for the general chairman of the HIPMI Central Executive Board (BPP). Previously, the General Chairman of BPP HIPMI, Akbar Himawan Buchari, in his report emphasised that this year’s national conference is an important momentum to strengthen tangible contributions to national economic development. The organisation is committed to continuing to uphold the spirit of economic independence bequeathed by the nation’s founders. Akbar also recalled a message from the economic elder Professor Sumitro Djojohadikusumo on the importance of economic sovereignty. This message serves as a guide for the young generation so that Indonesia’s independence is not merely a historical embellishment. “We do not want our independence to be just a ceremony. Therefore, this Munas is an arena for HIPMI to formulate tangible contributions, ensuring that Indonesia is not only politically independent, but also economically sovereign,” said Akbar. The opening agenda series of the XVIII HIPMI National Conference was attended by thousands of participants from various regions across Indonesia. The event began with the singing of the national anthem Indonesia Raya, followed by the HIPMI hymn and march, and a communal prayer by all regional administrators.