Prananda Surya Paloh Encourages Youth Contribution Beyond Political Routes

The Garda Pemuda NasDem (GPND) has begun preparing a new organisational direction ahead of its second congress, scheduled for 21-22 July 2026 in Jakarta. One key focus is transforming the organisation’s model so it is not solely oriented towards political cadre formation, but also becomes a collaborative space for young people from various professions. The plan emerged during a plenary meeting and the 15th anniversary celebration of Garda Pemuda NasDem held at NasDem Tower, Jakarta, on Tuesday, 14 July 2026. Garda Pemuda NasDem Chairman Prananda Surya Paloh stated that input from regional administrators, gathered through Regional Coordination Meetings, will form the basis for discussions at the second congress, which carries the theme ‘Independent Youth, Sovereign Nation’. According to him, aspirations received from various regions indicate that the younger generation wishes to continue contributing to the nation, but through approaches more suited to the times. ‘Essentially, they want to keep contributing, but through more out-of-the-box and soft approaches. Garda Pemuda NasDem must become a platform where young people gather according to their professions and strengths to contribute to the nation,’ said PSP. Prananda believes that youth organisations do not always have to serve as a gateway to practical politics. He noted that young people can also contribute through the professions they pursue, ranging from business and healthcare to other fields. ‘Consider Garda Pemuda NasDem as a gathering place for Indonesian youth to create according to their respective strengths,’ he said. In addition to preparing the congress agenda, the plenary meeting also discussed the organisation’s internal evaluation, covering cadre training implementation, the effectiveness of flagship programmes, and the activity levels of regional boards. Prananda acknowledged that Garda Pemuda NasDem’s management remains largely concentrated in Java and Sumatra. However, he noted the organisation is beginning to expand in other regions, including Papua Pegunungan, which now has an active board. ‘At fifteen years old, I see Garda Pemuda NasDem continuing to demonstrate organisational maturity with positive progress. Going forward, we will increasingly prioritise a more open approach that is closer to young people,’ he said.