Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), Buya Dr. Anwar Abbas, issued a strategic warning regarding the future direction of national development. He stressed that to break out of the developing nation category and become a global power, Indonesia must undergo a major transformation in mastering science and technology (IPTEK).
Buya Anwar delivered the statement during a series of events including the National Working Meeting, International Seminar, and Cadreization of Ulema hosted by the Education and Cadreization Commission (KPK) of MUI at the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) Office in Jakarta. According to him, although Indonesia possesses strong social capital such as cultural richness and social solidarity, this is insufficient unless accompanied by innovation excellence.
In his view, there is an inseparable correlation between technological mastery, economic stability, and political influence. "If we do not master technology, the economy will be difficult to control. Without economic and technological power, Indonesia's bargaining position on the world political stage will be very weak," he stated.
Facing the momentum toward a century of independence, Buya Anwar urged the national education sector to focus more on shaping an adaptive and innovative generation. He hopes educational institutions will not merely pursue basic academic targets, but will instead produce human resources brave enough to make technological breakthroughs.
Furthermore, he encouraged the creation of a progressive culture within the educational environment so that Indonesia can transition from being merely a technology consumer to a producer. The recommendations from this strategic forum are expected to make a concrete contribution to strengthening the national education system to achieve a respected national sovereignty at the global level.
