President Prabowo Subianto marked the 97th Youth Pledge Day on October 28, 2025, urging youth not to fear big dreams. Education Minister Abdul Mu'ti emphasized pride in the Indonesian language as part of unity. The event commemorates the 1928 Second Youth Congress that birthed the historic pledge.
Youth Pledge Day is commemorated every October 28, marking the outcome of the Second Youth Congress in Jakarta in 1928. This pledge united previously regional youth movements, becoming a milestone in Indonesia's independence struggle. The Youth Pledge states: First, we the sons and daughters of Indonesia declare one motherland, Indonesia. Second, we the sons and daughters of Indonesia declare one nation, the Indonesian nation. Third, we the sons and daughters of Indonesia uphold one language of unity, the Indonesian language.
For the 97th commemoration in 2025 under the theme “Youth in Action, Indonesia United,” President Prabowo Subianto delivered a speech at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta. He described youth as the nation's hope for an advanced Indonesia. "I message: Hey youth! Don't fear big dreams. Don't fear failure. Great nations are born from brave youth who love their nation and are willing to sacrifice for the people. Let us ignite the spirit of unity, mutual cooperation, and doing our best for the country," he said. Prabowo urged maintaining the pledge's spirit through hard work, discipline, honesty, and patriotism. "Together, let's prove Indonesia is a strong, just, prosperous nation respected worldwide because its people are prosperous. Once again, happy 97th Youth Pledge Day 2025. Youth move, Indonesia unites," he added.
Meanwhile, Education Minister Abdul Mu'ti called the commemoration a moment of pride in the Indonesian language. "Let us together, especially the young generation, strengthen the spirit of Indonesianness so we can become Indonesia as envisioned by our founders," he said on the evening of October 27. Mu'ti emphasized unity through one motherland, one nation, and one language. He highlighted policies for pride, proficiency, and advancement in Indonesian, plus Trigatra Bahasa: prioritize Indonesian, preserve regional languages, and master foreign languages.
Its background traces to the First Youth Congress in 1926, led by Tabrani, a Maluku figure, which laid the foundation for subsequent congresses.