Asta Cita, as the strategic vision of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, is a manifestation of their commitment to building a Progressive Indonesia amid a global environment filled with uncertainty. In increasingly complex conditions—especially due to geopolitical disruption and economic challenges—efficiency in development program implementation is imperative.

With eight core aspirations covering areas such as economic prosperity, food and energy sovereignty, and robust national defense, Asta Cita must be implemented through an adaptive approach that aligns with global dynamics in order to better face future challenges. The ever-shifting geopolitical landscape—such as great power rivalry in the Asia-Pacific, trade wars, and regional instability—demands that Indonesia adopt flexible diplomacy and adaptive economic policies.

Global uncertainty also calls for strategies that not only focus on domestic economic growth but also strengthen Indonesia’s role in global supply chains. By adopting a more proactive approach, Indonesia can leverage international cooperation opportunities to secure access to markets, investment, and technology that support national competitiveness. By integrating Asta Cita into policies centered on economic resilience and national self-reliance, Indonesia can face global challenges with greater confidence. Strengthening strategic sectors through innovation and international collaboration will provide better resilience against external shocks. Thus, Indonesia will not only be able to survive global uncertainty but also play a more significant role in global economic and political dynamics.

Indonesia must also ensure the sustainability of its industrialization efforts by capitalizing on its comparative advantages. By optimizing the manufacturing and creative industries, Indonesia can increase its added value in international trade. Investment in infrastructure that supports industrialization—such as toll roads, ports, and efficient logistics systems—forms an integral part of Asta Cita.

Included in this is the modernization of defense equipment (alutsista), which has become essential in responding to evolving threats. The approach must be measured, ensuring that every procurement and upgrade in defense systems delivers maximum impact without overburdening the national budget. Efficiency in defense spending can be achieved through the use of cutting-edge technologies, collaboration with the domestic defense industry, and selective, long-term strategic procurement.

In addition to modernizing weaponry, strengthening cybersecurity is also a crucial aspect of maintaining national stability. Cyberattacks on strategic infrastructures—including energy, communication, and defense sectors—can threaten national sovereignty without conventional military confrontation. Therefore, developing adaptive cybersecurity systems, enhancing human resource capacity in this field, and collaborating with international partners are critical steps in building robust digital resilience.

Defense policy implementation aligned with the Asta Cita principles also emphasizes international cooperation and technological innovation. In this context, deterrence becomes a key element of Indonesia’s military strategy, ensuring that any defense capability enhancement is not only defensive but also capable of deterring external threats. Collaborations with other countries in military technology development and joint exercises are strategic steps to strengthen Indonesia’s defense posture.

At the same time, efficient budget management in the defense sector is essential, ensuring that the development of this sector does not come at the expense of other vital areas such as education and healthcare. National security is important, but without sufficient public welfare, a nation’s resilience is fragile. Therefore, budget allocation must be carried out carefully, ensuring that every defense-related expenditure delivers real strategic impact without overly straining state finances.

Sustaining defense development must go hand in hand with improving public welfare. National resilience depends not only on military superiority but also on strong social and economic stability. By creating synergy between defense and social progress, Indonesia can build a security system that is not only militarily solid but also supported by a prosperous and highly competitive society.

Human resource development is another essential aspect in realizing a Progressive Indonesia. Efficiency in education systems and vocational training is key to producing a workforce that is adaptable to changing times. In this digital disruption era, policies that support technology-based competency enhancement must be prioritized.

In this way, the demographic bonus can be maximized to enhance Indonesia’s competitiveness in the global economy. The education system must also become more inclusive and equitable so that social gaps can be narrowed and economic growth becomes more sustainable. Hence, beyond economic and defense factors, domestic political stability is also key to realizing the Asta Cita vision.

Strong political resilience will provide better legal certainty and regulatory clarity for businesses and investments. By strengthening democratic institutions, improving government transparency, and enhancing good governance, Indonesia can create a conducive environment for national development. Public trust in a stable government will accelerate the achievement of development goals.

Asta Cita must serve as the primary instrument for ensuring sustainable development that is responsive to the challenges of the times. The Prabowo-Gibran administration is expected to translate this vision into concrete policies, with a strong emphasis on efficiency in every action.

Amid global geopolitical uncertainty, Indonesia must hold firm to the principles of independence and sustainability, enabling it to become a progressive and highly competitive nation on the global stage. With a clear vision and targeted execution, Asta Cita can serve as a roadmap for Indonesia to achieve greatness in the 21st century.

Prof. Dr. Drs. Ermaya Suradinata, SH, MH, MS
Member of the Expert Council of BPIP RI for the Field of Geopolitics and Government Geostrategy