Jokowi urges Indonesian civic group to help communities amid global uncertainty

JAKARTA, Aug 8 (STUPA NEWS) - Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo urged the Gerakan Berani Nusantara (GBRAN) civic organisation on Saturday to strengthen its social role and help communities cope with growing uncertainty caused by climate change and geopolitical tensions.

Jokowi, who serves as an adviser to GBRAN, said governments around the world were facing increasingly difficult challenges, including more visible impacts of climate change, geopolitical uncertainty and fluctuations in global oil prices.

"Nearly all countries and their leaders, whoever they are, I think are finding it very difficult to manage their respective countries," Jokowi said at the inauguration of GBRAN's provincial leadership across Indonesia, held in Jakarta.

He cited flooding in various parts of the world as one example of the growing impact of climate change, while saying geopolitical tensions were affecting countries beyond those directly involved in conflicts.

The former president said the situation could also have economic consequences, including through movements in global oil prices.

Jokowi said GBRAN could play a role in helping the public understand developments in social and political affairs as the global situation becomes more uncertain.

"That is why Gerakan Berani Nusantara is very good for providing explanations to the public about the situations that exist, including in social and political life," he said.

He urged the group's members to maintain a direct presence in communities, particularly by helping people facing difficulties.

"I entrust you with accompanying the community in your daily activities when they face problems," Jokowi said. "Be there for people who are struggling, and visit residents both in times of happiness and hardship."

He also encouraged GBRAN members to carry out practical social activities, including visiting sick people and those receiving treatment in hospitals.

Jokowi said such activities could help the organisation build closer ties with communities and introduce its role through direct engagement with residents.

"I believe that under its chairman, Rimson Maruli Sinaga, GBRAN will have a strong organisational structure and will be useful to the nation and the people," he said.

Jokowi congratulated the organisation on the establishment of its regional, district and sub-district structures across Indonesia and expressed hope that GBRAN would translate its broader vision into concrete activities at the community level.

The inauguration was held at the Discovery Hotel in Ancol, Jakarta, on Saturday. (Gusti Haes)