The biggest democratic event in the country, the presidential election, is approaching. Public discourses surrounding the event start to emerge, from discussion about the election rules and survey to political motives wrapped in public policy proposals. 

However, an important and noteworthy thing is that this time, the voters are dominated by the younger generations in the 17-35 age group. These generations are considered the main driver of national developments, as stated by experts during Policy Fest, an event held by Think Policy last December. 

Think Policy is a learning space for people to learn more about public policy where they can voice their opinions and do cross-sector collaborations with the main vision of encouraging evidence-based public policy and empathy.

Bambang Brodjonegoro, former Minister of Research and Technology/National Research and Innovation Agency Head as well as professor at University of Indonesia, sees the younger generation as a pillar of transformation that may save Indonesia from the middle income trap. 

However, it is also a fact that this generation tends to be overlooked. More often than not, they are only considered as merely an object in policy-making processes, not a subject who takes active part. 

Deputy for Monitoring, Evaluation and Control of Development at the National Development Planning Ministry Taufik Hanafi shared data regarding youth involvement. 

According to the Youth Development Index issued by Indonesian ministries, there were two indicators related to youth that have developed over the years, namely youth participation and youth leadership. 

“Young leaders often propose or offer strategic solutions for national development. Through this event, it can be seen how the role of youth is very important and strategic. It becomes a necessity and an important prerequisite for the success of national development,” he stated.