PDIP urges BRIN and universities to review Soekarno's National Comprehensive Development Plan

Jakarta (ANTARA) - PDI Perjuangan Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto has urged the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) and universities to reassess the National Comprehensive Development Plan as a reference for Indonesia’s future development. Hasto made the remarks during a speech at the Pancasila Birth Anniversary commemoration at At-Taufiq Mosque courtyard in Lenteng Agung, South Jakarta, on Monday. ‘BRIN and Indonesian universities can scientifically assess the National Comprehensive Development Plan to identify relevant aspects as a compass for the nation’s future development,’ Hasto said. Hasto explained that the development plan positions universities as centres of scientific excellence, or ‘City of Intellect’, to support national development. He cited Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) being directed to become a hub for Pancasila, democracy, governance, and culture studies, while the Bogor Agricultural Institute (IPB) is projected to lead national food sovereignty development. ‘During a recent DPP meeting, Mrs Mega expressed concern that innovators in seed development face legal issues, which undermines the innovation climate,’ he said. According to Hasto, all strategic corridors in the National Comprehensive Development Plan place universities in a central role. ‘This comes from Mrs Megawati Soekarnoputri,’ he said. The Pancasila Birth Anniversary ceremony was led by Hasto as the inspecting officer. Attendees included Ganjar Pranowo, Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, Tri Rismaharini, Yasonna Laoly, and several other PDI Perjuangan DPP officials. PDI Perjuangan Chairperson Megawati Soekarnoputri attended virtually.