Cross-Generational Discussions Continue, Reinforcing Intrinsic Leadership as a Solution to Multidimensional Crisis

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA – The wave of anxiety about the nation’s future continues to roll through a series of cross-generational discussions. Following previous sessions held with former Vice President Jusuf Kalla and Chairman of the UGM Board of Professors, Prof M Baiquni, the latest discussion took place on Tuesday night (17/3/2026) in South Jakarta, further emphasising the pressing need for the return of “Intrinsic Leadership” as an anchor for national improvement. Rector of Harkat State University, Sudirman Said, emphasised that the current multidimensional crisis stems from the fading moral standards of leaders, who now rely more on formal authority than on integrity. “In difficult times ahead, we need the pillar of intrinsic leadership. Leaders must have a solid foundation of track record and integrity, rather than merely using the authority granted to them in unwise ways,” said Sudirman. He highlighted how sources of quality leadership are increasingly diminishing, replaced by the use of power that tends to be non-participatory. This leadership crisis directly impacts the management of national priorities, especially in the defence sector. Retired TNI General Endriartono Sutarto provided sharp notes on defence equipment policies deemed not to favour human welfare. “The state has an obligation not only to safeguard sovereignty but also to prosper its people. We should make the equipment we have capable, rather than buying a lot that becomes outdated in a few years,” stressed the former TNI Commander. He also questioned the addition of structures and ranks amid stagnant budgets that instead erode the rights of lower-level soldiers.