The younger generation is one of the nation's assets. Having an active and productive young generation can certainly be a distinct advantage for Indonesia. Academic Advisor and Operations Counsel Prestasi Junior Indonesia (PJI), Robert Gardiner said PJI believes that empowering essential skills for the younger generation will spark their confidence to explore their potential and reach for a world full of opportunities at the next stage of their lives. "It is hoped that the skills and experience gained by the younger generation can become a valuable asset for them to grow as superior Indonesian human resources who are ready to create a more inclusive community and world," he said in a press statement received by Tempo on August 23, 2023.

In the spirit of Indonesia's 78th Independence Day as well as the momentum of celebrating its 26th year of existence in the country, PT Mandala Multifinance Tbk (Mandala Finance) launched the initiative "Growing with Indonesian People" to support economic growth and improve people's welfare. Mandala Multifinance cooperates with Prestasi Junior Indonesia (PJI) to encourage strengthening and digitizing the business of 100 Padang City MSMEs, increasing the financial skills of 300 Padang and Bandar Lampung high school and vocational high school students, and supporting the development of the Padang City Government's Community Digital Learning Center facility.

General Manager Business for the Sumatra Mandala Finance Region, Lucas Putradinata, said that his team is very enthusiastic about this business phase. "Mandala Finance is very enthusiastic about continuing to advance and grow with all Indonesian people by presenting fresh innovations, including in aspects of community empowerment and development," he said.

Lucas sees entrepreneurship, financial literacy and digitalization as tools for society, especially the younger generation, to build and achieve a more productive and brilliant future. "Therefore, we hope that this initiative initiated with PJI can contribute economic and social benefits in a sustainable manner to the community where our business operates," he said.

Data from the Ministry of Investment states that the MSME sector, which is able to support 61.97 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) and absorb 97 percent of Indonesia's total workforce, plays a central role in the country's economy. In fact, business actors who have entered the online realm in local markets are the main driver of the growth of the country's digital economy.

In addition, public access to the use of various financial services continues to grow significantly to reach 85.10 percent in 2022. These studies further emphasize the importance of empowering young people with essential knowledge and skills in business, finance and digital.