Indonesia ramps up youth diplomacy at SSEAYP 2026 in Bangkok

Indonesia strengthened its youth diplomacy push at the SSEAYP 2026 government conference in Bangkok, underscoring the programme’s strategic role in developing globally minded young leaders and deepening regional cooperation.

The Youth and Sports Ministry said Indonesia actively helped shape the future direction of the Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Program (SSEAYP), which brings together participants from 11 countries, during the high-level forum in Thailand.

Yossi Ahmad Falah, a senior policy analyst representing the ministry, said Indonesia’s engagement was crucial to strengthening youth character, global awareness, and cooperation among nations.

“Our presence is strategic, reflecting Indonesia’s commitment to nurturing adaptive, globally oriented youth capable of reinforcing international relations,” Yossi said in a statement released on Wednesday.

He described SSEAYP as a valuable long-term investment for regional diplomacy and leadership development, while stressing Indonesia’s role in sustaining youth collaboration across ASEAN and Japan as a driver of global solutions.

Indonesia’s youth delegation also drew attention by promoting the theme “Merakit: Building Hope to Rise,” highlighting social innovation and collaborative action to address the Sustainable Development Goals.

Through the “Merakit” initiative, Indonesian participants pledged to deliver tangible social impact in their communities after returning home.

Japan Cabinet Office Administrator Makino Masahiro praised the active contributions of all delegations, saying the forum also marked early preparations for SSEAYP’s 50th anniversary in 2027.

Indonesia and partner countries, he said, have begun coordinated planning to ensure the golden jubilee produces capable future leaders while strengthening solidarity, friendship, and mutual understanding across ASEAN and Japan.