In response to recent developments in the national situation, IPB University feels compelled to state its position. The following are six official statements from IPB University in response to the current state of the nation, delivered by Rector Prof Arif Satria at the opening of IPB University’s 62nd anniversary (9/1) at the Dramaga Campus.
1. We express our deep concern over the current national situation, which has been marked by acts of violence and anarchist actions that have not only claimed lives but also caused damage to a number of public facilities and other properties in various cities. In light of these events, we express our condolences for the victims who have died, condemn those who have committed anarchist acts, and call on state officials to always maintain security and order through a humanistic, persuasive, and professional approach, avoiding repressive actions. The state must always be present to protect all Indonesian people.
2. We urge all elements of the nation to prioritize togetherness, brotherhood, and unity in facing the recent national situation, with the hope that all parties will commit to exercising restraint and strive to create a calm, peaceful, and conducive atmosphere.
3. We remind all elements of the nation, especially IPB University citizens, to be aware of irresponsible provocations, and to remain vigilant, control their emotions, and avoid actions that could endanger their personal safety or that of others. As academics who uphold scientific truth, every aspiration of IPB University citizens should be conveyed based on data and facts, in a civilized manner in accordance with legal and ethical corridors that reflect intellectual quality and moral integrity. Let us always think critically, carefully sort through sources of information, and reject the spread of hoaxes that can damage sound reasoning and national unity.
4. We respect the freedom of every citizen to express their opinions and aspirations as guaranteed by the constitution, and we ask the Indonesian House of Representatives and the government to be more sensitive and empathetic to the problems of the people, to prioritize dialogue and deliberation in finding solutions to various national issues, particularly those related to poverty, unemployment, food security, economic inequality, investment certainty, social injustice, agrarian conflicts, and corruption that has the potential to disrupt public welfare and hinder efforts to achieve Indonesia Emas 2045.
5. We urge the government and all stakeholders to continue to oversee and maintain national food security, considering that food is an important factor in determining economic and political stability in both the short and long term. IPB University remains committed to contributing maximally and being part of the national movement to achieve food security.
6. We urge IPB University members to remain focused and work hard and smart through education, research, and innovation to achieve food security and agromaritime progress in Indonesia.
“We pray that the government, state institutions, security forces, and all parties can immediately restore the situation so that the Indonesian people can realize the future with optimism,” said Prof Arif.
“With intellectual enthusiasm, a critical attitude, and upholding national values, IPB University students and members of the university community are expected to continue to contribute positively to society and the nation. May Allah SWT always protect, guide, and give strength to all of us in carrying out our mandate as academics with integrity,” hoped the Rector of IPB University.
