MATARAM – The Minister of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions (Mendes PDT), Yandri Susanto, promoted an internship program in Japan to ignite the learning enthusiasm of students in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB). Minister Yandri provided an overview of the international workforce to encourage the youth to prepare themselves optimally.

Furthermore, Minister Yandri advised NTB students who eventually depart for Japan not to lose their sense of nationalism. He emphasized the importance of returning to Indonesia after gaining extensive experience in the "Land of the Rising Sun."

"Because the competition is fierce, you must study earnestly. Do not waste this opportunity. Bring back the positive advancements you encounter in Japan to Indonesia. Once you have achieved success there, do not stay away; return home to Indonesia," he explained during a dialogue with Japan internship alumni, Japanese language trainees, vocational/high school students, and Professional Village Assistants at the NTB Islamic Center, Thursday (April 16, 2026).

Thousands of young people in NTB are being prepared by the Department of Manpower and Transmigration (Disnakertrans) to depart for Japan through this internship program. Minister Yandri believes this program is a vital opportunity to achieve success, regardless of one’s village origins.

He shared his own journey, noting that he hails from a disadvantaged village and grew up in impoverished economic conditions. Nevertheless, he maintains that such limitations are not obstacles to achieving one's dreams and contributing to Indonesia.

"Your future is not in the hands of others, but in your own hands. Do not feel incapable. As long as we remain optimistic, strong, diligent, respectful to our parents, and kind to our environment, there will always be a way," he noted.

During the event, which was also attended by the Vice Governor of NTB, Indah Dhamayanti Putri, Minister Yandri conversed with several students regarding their future aspirations. The session included a Q&A, which concluded with a gesture of appreciation for every student who joined him on stage.

According to Minister Yandri, such interactions are crucial for honing the skills and self-confidence of the youth, especially when speaking in public. He concluded by advising all participants who would eventually leave for Japan to safeguard their integrity and Indonesia's reputation while promoting the best aspects of the nation.

"You are not departing in your own name, but in the name of the 'Red and White'—in the name of Indonesia. Therefore, you must conduct yourselves well and protect our nation's good name, including our culture," he concluded.

Foto: Andri/Kemendes PDT 
Teks: Ria/Kemendes PDT