Hundreds of Indonesian Youths Participate in UN Simulation in Bangkok
A United Nations simulation continues to be utilised as a means of capacity building for the younger generation in the fields of diplomacy and international relations. Through this forum, participants practise constructing arguments, negotiating, and seeking solutions to various global issues.
A total of 486 Indonesian delegates took part in the 21st Asia Youth International Model United Nations (AYIMUN) held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 26 to 29 June 2026. The event, organised by the International Global Network (IGN), was attended by around 700 delegates from 19 countries.
IGN President Muhammad Fahrizal said the UN simulation is not only a stage for sharpening public speaking skills but also brings together participants from various countries with different cultural backgrounds and perspectives. “Seven hundred people are in the same room, ready to speak on behalf of the countries they represent and champion issues they may have never studied before. For me, that is something extraordinary,” Fahrizal stated.
The opening of the 21st AYIMUN was attended by the Malaysian Ambassador to Thailand, Datuk Wan Zaidi Wan Abdullah; the Timor-Leste Ambassador to Thailand, Francisco Tilman Cepeda; and Associate Economic Affairs Officer of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), Jack Crawford.
Datuk Wan Zaidi encouraged delegates to use the forum to broaden their horizons, enhance diplomatic skills, and build networks with participants from various countries. “Take advantage of this opportunity to gain knowledge, sharpen skills, and build friendships while discussing various world issues,” he said.
Francisco Tilman Cepeda stated that the world faces increasingly complex challenges, making youth involvement necessary to bring forth new ideas and solutions. “Through platforms like AYIMUN, you can build trust, seek joint solutions, and foster mutual respect,” he said.
Meanwhile, Jack Crawford assessed that this year’s AYIMUN theme is relevant to the global situation full of uncertainty. According to him, youth involvement in studying diplomacy is an important asset for facing various international challenges. “In a world full of uncertainty, AYIMUN participants choose to study diplomacy, understand various global issues, and show concern for the issues facing the world,” he said.
The 21st AYIMUN carried the theme “The Uncertain World: Rethinking Diplomacy in the Face of Crisis”. The simulation was divided into nine councils, including the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD), United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNCOPUOS), Disarmament and International Security Committee (DISEC), and the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).
On this occasion, IGN also awarded full scholarships to four AYIMUN and Asia World Model United Nations (AWMUN) alumni who have participated in the programme more than four times. They are Lleyton Schuts (Australia), Mailika P. Boransing (Philippines), Bratasena Ratmowardojo (Indonesia), and Mirabelle Woo (Malaysia). The scholarships are to be used to attend the 22nd AYIMUN scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in August 2026.