Government and the UN in Indonesia issue commemorative stamp on UN Day

Jakarta, 24 October 2024

On today’s United Nations Day, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia, the Ministry of Communication and Digital, in partnership with the UN in Indonesia and Binus University, held a youth-focused event that celebrated the creativity and contributions of young Indonesians.

They announced the winners of a national stamp competition launched earlier this year for youth from across Indonesia to design a stamp symbolizing the partnership between Indonesia and the UN, as well as their shared commitment to sustainable development.

Today’s UN Day event, themed “Pact to the Future: Youth at the Heart of Change,” emphasized the role of young people in promoting innovation, peace, and sustainability. The programme included interactive workshops, youth-led discussions, and cultural performances, all aimed at encouraging youth engagement in creating a positive future.

The Senior Advisor to the Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, His Excellency Adam Mulawarman Tugio, on his keynote speech, expressed the importance of youth participation, stating, “Young people are essential to Indonesia’s development and our efforts to achieve the SDGs. Their creativity and ideas are crucial as we work towards peacebuilding, sustainable development, and technological advancement. The stamp launched today is a symbol of their contributions and the strong partnership between Indonesia and the United Nations.”

He added that “the partnership between our government and the UN showcases the importance of multilateral cooperation, particularly in empowering our youth to be active contributors to sustainable development.”

The stamp competition was organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Communication and Digital, and the UN in Indonesia. The first winner, Armelsa Ferdinandus (18) from Jakarta, the second-place winner, Rice Anggraini (18) from Bengkulu, and the third-place winner, Revant Marlun (15) from Jakarta, received their awards as part of the festivities.

The event also featured a special session led by youth representatives who shared their stories and ideas on how they are driving positive change in their communities. This dialogue emphasized the importance of inclusive and youth-led initiatives in achieving sustainable development and demonstrated the power of collaboration between the government, international organizations, and youth groups.

“Young people are key to shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future. The United Nations is committed to working alongside Indonesia’s youth to support their innovative contributions and ideas. This event and the stamp competition showcase the incredible potential of Indonesia’s young generation,” said Gita Sabharwal, the UN Resident Coordinator in Indonesia.

The event also introduced the “SDG Time Capsule,” inviting participants to contribute messages about their hopes for 2030, symbolizing a collective vision of a sustainable future, sealed until the end of the decade.

Dr. Nelly S. Kom, MM, CSCA, Rector of BINUS University, added: “This year’s event theme, Youthnovation, resonates with the need for inclusive initiatives led by young people in driving innovation for achieving sustainable development through their creative spirit, fresh thinking, and transformative actions in shaping Indonesia’s future. This is important to us, equipping students to be change makers and future leaders”

The UN Day celebration featured cultural performances, exhibits from UN agencies, and displays by private sector partners, highlighting solutions for sustainable development in Indonesia