Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Urges Students to Build Character and Leadership Competence

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has urged students to build character and competence to face changing times while preparing themselves to become future leaders. He considers these two aspects to be determining factors in creating a generation that will lead Indonesia towards the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision. “When the time comes, who will be the winner is determined by who is able to balance character and competence,” Bima said in a written statement on Monday (3/8/2026). He made the remarks whilst delivering a National Insight Public Lecture at the opening of the 2026 University of Indonesia (UI) Freshers’ Campus Life Orientation (PKKMB) at Balairung UI, Depok City, West Java, on Monday (3/8/2026). Bima said that students entering higher education today are part of the generation that will take up the baton of national leadership. Therefore, the university period must be used not only to strengthen academic capacity but also to shape leadership character. He added that Indonesia is currently at a strategic momentum to realise the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision through a demographic bonus. This opportunity, according to him, can only be maximised if supported by superior human resources who are ready to face global dynamics. “And you are the Gen Z that the Rector has prepared, that UI has prepared, to become leaders who will eventually guide Indonesia towards Golden Indonesia 2045,” Bima said. Furthermore, Bima emphasised the importance of the ability to read the direction of changing times. According to him, the younger generation must have broad insight, the ability to think ahead, and a willingness to continue learning in order to adapt to various developments. “The signs of the times are read by looking forward and reflecting on the past. Today’s Gen Z is the smartest generation in history,” he explained. On that occasion, Bima also highlighted the rapid development of technology that is changing various aspects of life. He therefore reminded students not only to master digital skills but also to develop critical thinking abilities and interpersonal skills, which will be key assets in future leadership. “There is a lot of research, my younger siblings, about what skills are needed in the future. There is some from the World Economic Forum. There are three skills you must prepare for the future after reading the signs of the times. First, technological developments today necessitate that you master digital skills. It is a must. This is a necessity,” Bima stressed. In addition to competence, Bima believes that organisational experience plays an important role in shaping a leader’s character. Through such experience, students can learn to manage differences, build collaboration, and foster the trust that forms the foundation of leadership. He therefore encouraged students to actively participate in various student organisations as a learning space that cannot be fully obtained in the classroom. “How do we get used to facing differences? Immerse yourself in an organisation. Organisations will hone your ability to get used to facing differences. When you are accustomed to managing differences, you step further forward to achieve victory,” he concluded.