Indonesia is known for its remarkable ethnic, cultural, and religious diversity. However, this diversity also presents serious challenges, especially in maintaining social harmony amid increasing polarization driven by identity politics. These challenges are particularly evident among millennials, currently the largest and most digitally active demographic group. A study conducted by Prof. Muryanto Amin and Alwi Dahlan Ritonga, scholars from Universitas Sumatera Utara, reveals unique social dynamics among millennials in North Sumatra and how local wisdom and tech-based educational innovations can serve as key instruments for maintaining unity and social cohesion.

According to Prof. Muryanto, millennials in North Sumatra demonstrate distinct social characteristics compared to their peers in other regions, such as Java. “Millennials in North Sumatra are deeply engaged in youth organizations and socio-political communities. They take pride in wearing organizational uniforms, which serve as symbols of identity and social solidarity,” he explained. In addition, these millennials frequently gather in “basecamps,” which function as social and discussion hubs. This pattern contrasts with millennials in Java, who tend to be more individualistic and join interest- or profession-based communities with less physical attachment.

Local wisdom plays a vital role in maintaining harmony in North Sumatra’s highly pluralistic society. Prof. Muryanto highlights the Dalihan Na Tolu philosophy—an important Batak Toba cultural heritage—as a strategic social value. Dalihan Na Tolu emphasizes mutual respect and social balance among various societal groups. “This philosophy teaches us that diversity is not a barrier, but a strength to be cherished and nurtured,” he noted. Alongside Dalihan Na Tolu, values such as mutual cooperation (gotong royong) and consensus-based decision-making (musyawarah) are foundational in reinforcing solidarity and reducing conflict arising from differences.

In this fast-evolving digital era, millennials face the challenge of navigating overwhelming streams of information, including identity-based political narratives that often divide society. Prof. Muryanto argues that local wisdom must be integrated with modern technology through innovative educational models that effectively reach and engage younger generations. He proposes the development of interactive digital learning apps that offer content on national identity, multiculturalism, radicalism threats, and identity politics in a visually engaging and accessible format.

“Creative and visual education tailored to the millennial lifestyle is essential to prevent them from being easily provoked by divisive identity politics,” he emphasized. Digital literacy is the key for millennials to critically assess information and participate constructively in social discourse.

However, Prof. Muryanto also recognizes the resistance among some millennials who view traditional values as incompatible with today’s fast-paced, tech-driven lifestyle. He stresses the need for adaptive educational models that bridge traditional values with contemporary realities and needs.

Furthermore, the research reveals that millennial behavior in North Sumatra is also shaped by age, education level, and gender. Younger millennials (aged 20–29) tend to be more receptive to new technologies and ideas but are also more prone to impulsive reactions to political issues. In contrast, older millennials (30–40 years old) display more stability, critical thinking, and religiosity. Female millennials are generally more critical of digital content and actively participate in inclusive social organizations, while males often exhibit strong group solidarity and are sometimes more susceptible to identity-based political narratives.

Based on this analysis, Prof. Muryanto concludes that North Sumatra’s rich diversity is, in fact, a major asset—if managed properly. He underscores the strategic role of millennials as agents of social change who can strengthen national unity. The key to success lies in equipping them with knowledge of national values, digital literacy skills, and relevant local wisdom.

Prof. Muryanto’s study also shows that while digitalization offers significant opportunities, the shift from digital consumers to digital creators remains a challenge. North Sumatran millennials must be empowered not just as passive users of technology, but also as innovative digital content creators capable of producing economically valuable solutions.

Amid an Indonesian political landscape that often exploits identity issues for support, education that fosters inclusive nationalism and multicultural understanding becomes a highly effective preventive measure. Prof. Muryanto emphasizes that well-educated millennials hold great potential to act as guardians of harmony and drivers of social progress.

By combining local wisdom, digital technology, and innovative educational models, North Sumatra presents an inspiring example of how pluralism can be a powerful foundation for unity and national advancement. With optimal support, millennials in this province can become not only digitally literate, but also culturally and socially intelligent individuals capable of advancing Indonesia through diversity.