The Millennial Can Lead: Addressing the Urgency of Leadership Transformation in the Disruption Era
The sustainability of an organisation in the modern era now hinges on its ability to transition leadership. In response to the massive shifts in demography and work styles, Dr. Irwan Dewanto, Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) of TACO Group, officially launched his latest book, The Millennial Can Lead.
The work is not merely popular literature but a scholarly piece drawn directly from in-depth research—his doctoral dissertation at SBM ITB. The book offers both a warning and a strategic guide for industry players to understand the urgency of leadership transformation amid the era of global disruption.
According to data from the Badan Pusat Statistik (BPS) of Indonesia, the Millennial generation (born 1981-1996) now dominates half of the productive labour force in Indonesia. This major shift demands fundamental changes in how organisations are managed to remain relevant.
“An organisation’s sustainability today can no longer rely on old leadership patterns. We must dare to transition from a rigid hierarchical structure based on power toward a collaborative ecosystem propelled by shared purpose,” Irwan said at the official launch at the TACO Showroom IDD Indonesia, Pantai Indah Kapuk (PIK2), on Wednesday 20 May 2026.
As a bridge between conventional working methods and the digital era, the book introduces a new standard of leadership called ‘The Big 4’ or the Four Pillars. The success of contemporary leaders is measured by their speed in adapting, innovating, and solving problems across four key points:
The book launch coincided with National Awakening Day, a moment considered appropriate by Prof. Dr. Soeprayitno, MM., MSc., Director of PT Pusat Studi Apindo (ATC). He emphasised that the material in the book has strong validation meeting the strict standards of reputable international journals.
‘The material presented is truly validated, up-to-date, sharp, and reliable research. May this book become a legacy that guides Irwan to the highest academic achievements,’ Prof. Soeprayitno said.
Moreover, Irwan outlined the vision of Multiplier Leadership to herald Indonesia’s Golden Era 2045. Through the LEAD-PRO framework, Millennials are positioned as strategic leadership pillars, while Gen Z plays a role in driving digital productivity. This cross-generational synergy is hoped to build a robust and adaptable national human resources architecture.
As a continuation of his research commitment, Irwan also teased a second book project underway, titled ‘Gen Z Can Be Productive’. The book ‘The Millennial Can Lead’ is currently available at major book retailers and digital platforms for leaders looking to commence organisational transformation. (Z-1)
Sociologist Imam Prasodjo notes that Millennials and Gen Z prefer flexibility and experience to physical assets like houses or cars.
The piece ends there.