As 2025 begins, Indonesia faces several economic challenges shaped by global and national factors. In response, Stube HEMAT Yogyakarta organized a virtual discussion with Dr. Murti Lestari, an economics researcher and lecturer, on January 29, 2025. More than thirty students and activists from various regions, including Alor, North Sumatra, Lampung, Timor, Southeast Maluku, Sumba, Manggarai, Luwuk Banggai, Maldives, Gunungkidul, North Morowali, and Yogyakarta, participated in the discussion.

In her presentation, Dr. Murti Lestari explained that the global economic depression is a significant and prolonged decline in worldwide economic activity. Many countries are experiencing severe drops in production, sales, and investment, triggered by geopolitical conflicts, leadership changes, economic instability in major nations, trade wars, and financial crises. Domestically, this has led to declining trade, reduced corporate activity, increased unemployment, weakened purchasing power, layoffs, rising prices, and declining public welfare.

Despite these challenges, Indonesia remains relatively safe due to its abundant resources. Although management needs improvement, the country has developed biofuels as a supplement to petroleum and benefits from its strategic geographical location with year-round sun exposure. In terms of food, Indonesia has diverse ingredients to meet its needs, provided they are well-managed through efficient agricultural practices, water distribution, technology, and human resources.

During the dialogue, participants raised questions about the Regional Minimum Wage (UMR), the challenges faced by Gen Z in the job market, the role of education in addressing these challenges, and the impact of technological advancements on job opportunities. Dr. Murti Lestari responded by highlighting the government's careful consideration in setting the UMR, noting that not all companies can afford to pay the minimum wage without risking bankruptcy and layoffs. She emphasized that employers value positive character and attitude over high academic grades when hiring Gen Z workers. Educational institutions need to balance imparting knowledge and building character in students. Dr. Lestari also stressed that technological advancements are inevitable and that workers must adapt by improving their skills in using technology-based tools to remain competitive.

In conclusion, despite concerns about a global economic depression, Dr. Murti Lestari emphasized an optimistic outlook for Indonesia. She highlighted the nation's potential for self-sufficiency, stressing the importance of leveraging existing resources. The key to success lies in working with integrity, maintaining discipline, fostering creativity, embracing technology, and persevering. So, how optimistic are you about facing future economic challenges? ***