TULUNGAGUNG – Indonesia’s National Awakening Day, locally known as Harkitnas, should inspire real contributions instead of remaining a symbolic annual ceremony, an academic in Tulungagung said on Tuesday.
This year’s National Awakening Day carries the theme “Protect the Nation’s Future for State Sovereignty.” The commemoration, observed every May 20, encourages Indonesians to reflect on national unity and resilience amid growing global challenges.
Andreas Andrie Djatmiko, a lecturer at Bhinneka PGRI University Tulungagung, said the spirit of national awakening must now focus on strengthening science, technology, and critical thinking.
According to Andreas, Indonesia currently faces complex domestic and international pressures. He pointed to the weakening rupiah exchange rate, ongoing legal issues inside the country, and conflicts in the Middle East that continue to affect both global and national economies.
“National Awakening Day should become a momentum to transform nationalism into real contributions,” he said. “The country needs innovation and concrete solutions to prevent future crises.”
He stressed that Indonesia cannot rely only on slogans or ceremonial events. Instead, he urged all sectors to create meaningful progress that can strengthen the nation during uncertain global conditions.
Andreas also highlighted the importance of moral integrity in addressing national problems. However, he warned that public enthusiasm alone would not produce major change without strong support from policymakers.
“All these efforts will sound like rhetoric if policymakers do not fully support them,” he added.
The academic expressed hope that this year’s National Awakening Day could unite different elements of society and encourage collective action. He said Indonesia needs stronger collaboration to overcome economic uncertainty and global instability.
He also reminded the public not to treat Harkitnas as merely an annual celebration. According to him, the momentum should encourage Indonesia to strengthen national resilience and prepare for future global challenges.
As Indonesia marks another National Awakening Day, Andreas believes the country must focus on innovation, integrity, and cooperation to maintain stability during a difficult global period.