The 2026 National Dialogue of the Indonesian Science, Technology, and Industry Convention (KSTI) highlighted a number of pressing global challenges that deserve serious attention. Across various sectors, increasing pressure and stress have become evident, indicating that society is currently operating in a survival mode in response to waves of global crises. These circumstances require strategic responses that enable the nation not only to survive and sustain itself but also to build a lasting competitive advantage.

Natural resources and human resources remain the two primary determinants of achieving these goals. With regard to natural resources, the long-standing narrative that Indonesia is a resource-rich country is no longer sufficient. Instead, Indonesia must manage and utilize its natural wealth critically and innovatively to ensure resilience and strengthen its competitiveness. Downstream development in the energy, food, and technology sectors has therefore become a strategic priority in achieving national self-reliance and prosperity.

At the same time, amid growing uncertainty, human resources are the key driving force behind national resilience. Indonesia needs individuals who possess integrity, a strong sense of nationalism, and professional competence in their respective fields.

These perspectives were reinforced through discussions during the 2026 KSTI National Dialogue. One of the major strategic issues raised was climate change, which is no longer viewed solely as an environmental concern but as a multidimensional challenge affecting food security, economic stability, ecosystem sustainability, and public welfare. Consequently, strengthening national resilience requires not only economic growth but also a balanced approach that integrates development, environmental conservation, and the enhancement of human resource quality.

Changes in rainfall patterns, the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, droughts, floods, forest and land fires, and ecosystem degradation have significantly affected productivity in agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. These conditions demonstrate that food security cannot be separated from environmental sustainability. Therefore, downstream processing of natural resources, sustainable forest management, land rehabilitation, the utilization of digital technology and artificial intelligence, and science-based policymaking must go hand in hand with the development of human resources who are ethical, adaptive, and innovative. Through such efforts, Indonesia will not only be better prepared to withstand global crises but also strengthen its long-term competitiveness.

Why Strengthening Unity and National Identity Matters

History has repeatedly shown that "United we stand, divided we fall." In times of unpredictable crises, no nation can rely solely on a single individual or one particular sector. The collective contribution of every member of society, whether within organizations or across the Republic of Indonesia, must become the driving force that enables the nation to endure and avoid becoming a victim of global economic and security instability.

History also teaches that Indonesia has suffered not because of a lack of resources but because of internal divisions, betrayal, conflict, and the erosion of mutual trust. From the perspective of Human Resource Development Psychology, three strategic priorities deserve particular attention.

1. Building Human Resource Productivity to Achieve Economic Self-Reliance through Mutual Cooperation

Indonesia must become more efficient while remaining productive and focused on essential priorities. Human capital management plays a vital role in identifying critical functions, redesigning work systems, managing workforce scenarios, and improving efficiency. The ultimate objective is not merely short-term cost reduction but preserving human capability so that society can continue progressing together rather than leaving others behind.

Every individual should contribute according to their abilities through the spirit of gotong royong (mutual cooperation). Positive and optimistic mindsets must continue to be strengthened through exemplary leadership across all sectors. The nation must acknowledge existing challenges, confront them courageously, recover from setbacks, and transform adversity into opportunities for greater innovation. Negative thinking and pessimism only weaken national resilience.

Indonesia has previously overcome ideological struggles throughout its history. Therefore, maintaining optimism and confidence in the nation's own capabilities remains essential to surviving, sustaining productivity, and achieving economic independence.

2. Preserving Trust and Communication During Times of Crisis

Periods of uncertainty require honest communication, fair processes, and strong leadership to preserve public trust. When difficult decisions become unavoidable, trust becomes one of the nation's most valuable assets. Poor communication weakens morale, creates resistance, and drives talented individuals away.

The integrity of leaders reflects the integrity of the nation itself. Leaders must continue to serve as role models in safeguarding unity and strengthening the spirit of nationalism. At the same time, information received by the public must always be verified through credible sources to prevent misinformation and disinformation from creating division during times of crisis. Trust fosters resilience, strengthens determination, and sustains hope for a better future.

3. Strengthening Resilience and Mental Health

Survival mode can easily evolve into burnout, leaving human resources exhausted and apathetic. Today, many individuals face not only workplace pressures but also family responsibilities, financial burdens, concerns about job security, and uncertainty about the future.

Early detection of stress, healthier workplace design, and stronger mental health support systems must be prioritized to help communities navigate periods of crisis. Protecting one individual ultimately means protecting one Indonesian family, while sustaining one organization contributes to safeguarding an important pillar of the national economy.

Although economic efficiency remains important during times of crisis, sacrificing trust and human capability ultimately weakens institutions from within. History reminds us that external forces have often prevailed not because they were stronger, but because internal divisions made society vulnerable.

Therefore, surviving times of uncertainty is not merely about reducing costs or tightening budgets. It is equally about protecting people, nurturing trust, preserving national unity, and preparing all Indonesians to recover together toward a more prosperous future.

Written by:

Prof. Dr. Vivi Gusrini Rahmadani, MSc., MA., Psychologist
Professor, Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Sumatera Utara

Based on insights from the 2026 National Dialogue of the Indonesian Science, Technology, and Industry Convention (KSTI).