Building Sharia Economy with the Demographic Bonus of the Young Generation
The demographic bonus dominated by the young generation can serve as the driving force for the national sharia economy. Strengthening human resources can begin from the regions.
East Kalimantan Provincial Secretary General Sri Wahyuni stated that the demographic bonus represents a golden opportunity to bolster the sharia economic ecosystem in Benua Etam. According to Sri Wahyuni, in Samarinda on Monday (11/5/2026), the current population composition in East Kalimantan is dominated by the young generation.
Therefore, enhancing sharia economic literacy from an early age is a strategic step to prepare human resources that will play a crucial role in regional economic development in the future.
“The number of young people in East Kalimantan is greater than the elderly. If the youth now understand sharia economics, then in 10 to 20 years, they will be the ones controlling the wheels of East Kalimantan’s economy,” she said during the Closing Ceremony of the Kaltim Halal Festival (KalaFest) at the courtyard of Masjid Baitul Muttaqien Islamic Center in Samarinda.
She added that the demographic bonus will only become a real strength if the young generation grows into an economically productive group capable of building their region independently. On that occasion, the Secretary General also expressed appreciation to Bank Indonesia for its commitment and consistency in promoting the development of sharia economy and finance.
The success of the halal festival, according to her, is the result of collaboration among various parties, from halal product mentoring institutions for UMKM, the Regional Sharia Economy and Finance Committee (KDEKS), to other strategic partners.
“This festival has grown big due to collective support. The most interesting thing is seeing the enthusiasm of our young people who are starting to have competent literacy about sharia economy and finance,” she added.
In addition to literacy, Sri Wahyuni also praised UMKM actors who continue to improve product quality through halal certification. She assessed that halal-certified products not only enhance the economic competitiveness of business actors but also provide a sense of security for the wider community as consumers.
Sri hopes that this synergy and spirit of togetherness will continue to be maintained for the progress of East Kalimantan.
“We hope this collaboration continues. As stated in the East Kalimantan Anthem, we not only build infrastructure but also realise a peaceful and prosperous East Kalimantan for all,” she said.