"Global challenges necessitate Hindus to become more intelligent, creative, and innovative in responding to the changes," President Jokowi remarked in his speech while attending the commemoration of Dharma Santi National Seclusion Day in Cilangkap, East Jakarta, on Saturday.
Jokowi noted that changes pose challenges that cannot be overlooked and must be tackled by increasing quality and productivity.
The president further noted that ensuring quality education should also be the key to improving Indonesia`s human resources.
The head of state believes that Saka New Year Seclusion Day holds significance for Hindus as it coincides with the Saraswati sacred day that is celebrated as the day of the coming of science.
The president stated that Indonesia is a great nation, and the public should not be lulled by the natural wealth of the archipelago.
President Jokowi emphasized that Indonesians must take the initiative to build new awareness in improving the quality of its human resources for strengthening and advancing the nation for a better future.
"I believe that by drawing inspiration from Saraswati and Seclusion Day, the Hindu community can welcome the coming of Saka New Year with renewed spirit to always improve the quality of self, to be more productive, and to make knowledge as a capital to achieve progress and glory in life," Jokowi noted.
The president attended the commemoration of Dharma Santi Nasional Seclusion Day in the company of First Lady Iriana.
Officials accompanying the president included Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs Wiranto, Minister for Religious Affairs Lukman Hakim Saifuddin, and Regional Representatives Council Chairman Oesman Sapta Odang.
Reporter: Ade P Marboen
Editor: Ade P Marboen
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