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| West Kalimantan PWI Urges Youth to Be Frontliners Against Radicalism in the Digital Age. |
Sekadau, West Kalimantan – Chairman of the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) of West Kalimantan, Kundori, is calling on young people to become the front line in the fight against radicalism and terrorism—especially amid the rapid growth of digitalization.
He made the statement during a seminar titled "The Role of Youth in Combating Radicalism and Terrorism in the Digital Era," held by the PWI Working Group of Sekadau Regency on Monday, July 28, 2025, in Sekadau.
What Was the Purpose of the Seminar?
The event aimed to raise collective awareness among high school students about their crucial role in safeguarding national peace and security from the threats of radicalism and terrorism—issues that increasingly target young people through social media and digital platforms.
"Radicalism and terrorism don’t just threaten national stability, they also destroy our humanity and diversity," Kundori emphasized.
Why Focus on the Youth?
According to Kundori, the youth are the largest internet users and play a major role in shaping public opinion. Therefore, they must step up as agents of change by promoting tolerance, nationalism, and peace in digital spaces.
"Digital media has become the new battleground for narratives. If young people stay silent, destructive content will dominate the internet," he stressed.
He also highlighted the vital role of journalism—not just to report news, but to be part of the solution by providing educational and enlightening content.
Who Attended the Seminar?
Several public figures and local leaders participated, including:
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Sandae, Assistant II of the Sekadau Regional Secretariat, representing the Regent
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AKBP Donny Molino Manoppo, Sekadau Police Chief
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Head of Sekadau's Ministry of Religious Affairs Office
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Head of the National and Political Unity Agency (Kesbangpol)
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Chairman of the Sekadau Interfaith Harmony Forum (FKUB)
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Dina Mariana, Chair of PWI Sekadau Working Group
What Were the Key Messages?
Sandae reminded the audience of the importance of mentoring youth so they don’t fall victim to misleading ideologies.
“Young people are agents of change and future leaders. It’s our duty—both the government and society—to guide them through the digital age,” he said.
Police Chief AKBP Donny also addressed the double-edged nature of technology, saying that young people are vulnerable to radical ideologies due to the overwhelming influx of information on social media.
“It’s often hard to tell what’s true or false online. That’s why digital literacy is critical,” he explained.
He added that the identity-seeking phase of youth makes them particularly susceptible to radical recruitment efforts.
What’s the Hope Moving Forward?
According to Dina Mariana, the seminar was specially designed for high school students because they are the future of the nation.
“Through this event, we aim to nurture early awareness and a strong sense of nationalism,” she said.
PWI West Kalimantan, together with various stakeholders, held this educational seminar to empower young people in Sekadau to protect themselves and others from radicalism in the digital age. With strong digital literacy and a spirit of unity, Indonesia’s youth can become champions of peace and tolerance.
Let’s join forces to counter radicalism in digital spaces—starting now, and starting with ourselves.
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