Pledge for unity

Pledge for unity

From Media Indonesia

We know of only two historic pledges. The first one was Sumpah Palapa by mahapatih (prime minister) Gajah Mada during the Majapahit Kingdom. And the second was the Youth Pledge, declared by Indonesian youths on Oct. 28, 1928. Both pledges had the same mission and significance, i.e. the existence of Indonesian unity. The only difference is that Sumpah Palapa was an individual's (Gajah Mada's) determination, as army commander in chief of a strong and mighty kingdom, to establish unity. And the Youth Pledge was declared by a group of youths from various parts of the country, when the country was still under the yoke of colonialism. The Youth Pledge was inspired by the spirit of unity and nationalism.

So, the Youth Pledge, which was declared 67 years ago, should be realized. Although today's youth may lack experience, they have fresh perceptions needed for fighting injustice and the social gap.

KOSTER RINALDI

Bandung, West Java