UNAIR NEWS – Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in partnership with Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), hosted the Preliminary Discussion of the D-8 Youth Dialogue under the theme “Navigating Uncertainty, Building Resilience.” The event took place on Wednesday (June 3, 2026) at Majapahit Hall on the fifth floor of the ASEEC Tower at UNAIR’s Dharmawangsa-B Campus.
The forum focused on energy and food security amid an evolving global environment. Among those in attendance were H.E. Heru Hartanto Subolo, Director of Public Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and H.E. Mohammad K. Koba, Deputy for Foreign Policy Coordination at the Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs.
Challenges confronting younger generation
In his opening remarks, Koba outlined several global challenges facing young people today. He said the theme of the dialogue reflects real-world issues rather than a purely academic discussion, pointing to rapid technological change, geopolitical tensions, and growing concerns over energy and food security as increasingly complex challenges for younger generations.
Koba argued that uncertainty should not be viewed solely as a challenge but also as an opportunity for youth to demonstrate leadership. “The question is not whether uncertainty will arise, it inevitably will. The real question is whether we are prepared to respond with courage, clear direction, and a commitment to collaboration,” he said.
He also described Surabaya as a fitting location for the discussion, drawing inspiration from the city’s historical legacy. Koba linked the determination shown by Surabaya’s youth during the struggle for independence in 1945 to the resilience needed by young people today.
“The young people of Surabaya did not wait for ideal circumstances. They acted with purpose, solidarity, and courage. That is the spirit we need to embrace as we navigate today’s uncertainties,” he said.
Youth as drivers of global solutions
Heru Hartanto Subolo, meanwhile, emphasized the importance of involving young people in international networking and cross-border cooperation. He noted that diplomacy extends beyond formal negotiations and can also be advanced through collaboration, idea-sharing, and innovation led by younger generations.
He stressed that the D-8 Youth Dialogue serves as an important platform for strengthening youth participation in international cooperation. “This forum gives young people the opportunity to engage in global discussions and contribute practical solutions to pressing challenges. Ideas should not remain on paper; they must address societal needs and deliver tangible impact,” he said.
Author: Maulya Afifah Zahra
Editor : Khefti Al Mawalia
