Speaking at IARMI’s 9th national conference, Sugiarto said Indonesia could become a developed nation within 20 years, but only if two key conditions are met.
He said Indonesia is in a pivotal moment, with global assessments projecting the country could rise into the world’s top five economies over the next two decades.
The first condition, he noted, is escaping the middle-income trap — a hurdle that many nations fail to overcome. While numerous states shift from low to middle income, only a few reach high-income levels.
In Asia, only five countries have achieved that status, compared with 14 in Europe.
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The second condition, he said, is maximizing Indonesia’s demographic dividend. The country’s large productive-age population must be channeled toward achieving the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.
He said Asta Cita highlights education-focused initiatives, including Sekolah Rakyat and Sekolah Garuda, to prepare youth and productive sectors for future leadership.
Sugiarto added that Asta Cita centers on two themes: education-technology and effective governance.
He said IARMI’s motto, “Widya Castrena Dharma Siddha” — perfection of service through knowledge and military science — aligns with the strategic direction of Asta Cita.
By collaborating with the Home Affairs Ministry and other institutions, he said, IARMI can help develop student regiment talent and ensure future leaders emerge within the next two decades.
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Translator: Fianda, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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