GNB NATIONAL CHAIRMAN HIGHLIGHTS POVERTY AS ONE OF THE ROOT CAUSES OF THE DRUG CRISIS, URGES GOVERNMENT TO FIGHT CORRUPTION AND CREATE JOBS

Jakarta, November 2, 2026|wartaindonesiaterkini.com— The National Chairman of Gaharu Nusantara Bersinar (GNB), Vernando Sihombing, has raised concerns about poverty, limited employment opportunities, and economic inequality, which he believes contribute to the vulnerability of communities, particularly the younger generation, to drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking.

Vernando emphasized that efforts to combat drugs in Indonesia must not focus solely on arresting drug users and dealers. According to him, the government must also pay serious attention to the social and economic conditions that can lead individuals into illegal drug trafficking networks.

“Why are so many people, especially young people, becoming trapped in drug abuse and drug dealing? One of the major contributing factors that deserves serious attention is poverty,” Vernando firmly stated.

According to him, economic hardship, limited employment opportunities, the rising cost of living, and inadequate access to education and economic empowerment can make certain segments of society increasingly vulnerable to the temptation of quick financial gains through illegal activities.

Nevertheless, Vernando stressed that poverty must never be used as a justification for involvement in drug abuse or trafficking.

“We are not justifying drug-related crimes. However, we must have the courage to examine this issue comprehensively. We cannot simply fight drugs while ignoring the underlying factors that make people vulnerable to becoming involved,” he said.

THE GOVERNMENT MUST TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE WELFARE OF ITS PEOPLE

Vernando also highlighted the government’s responsibility to ensure that national development policies genuinely benefit the public.

He pointed out that the government carries a mandate entrusted to it by the people and manages the national budget, which is partly funded by taxpayers’ contributions. Therefore, citizens have every right to demand transparency, accountability, and policies that provide tangible solutions to various social and economic challenges.

“The government, which has been entrusted with authority and the responsibility of managing public funds, must be accountable for delivering real solutions. The people need concrete action, not merely promises, slogans, and rhetoric,” he firmly stated.

GNB PRESENTS FIVE KEY DEMANDS TO THE GOVERNMENT

In his statement, the GNB National Chairman outlined five priorities that he considers essential to improving public welfare while strengthening efforts to prevent drug abuse.

First, firmly and comprehensively eradicate corruption. Vernando emphasized that the misuse of public funds must be dealt with decisively, as it diverts resources that should otherwise support national development and essential public services.

Second, eliminate illegal levies and extortion. Such practices place additional financial burdens on citizens, obstruct economic activities, and undermine the principles of fair and transparent public services.

Third, eradicate mafia practices in the oil, gas, and other economic sectors. GNB calls for strong law enforcement against illegal activities and abuses of authority in strategic sectors that could harm the state and its citizens.

Fourth, create employment opportunities on the widest possible scale. The government is urged to strengthen job creation, vocational training, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment programs, particularly for young people and low-income families.

Fifth, expand access to free, high-quality education and healthcare services. Vernando stressed that education and healthcare are fundamental needs that must become increasingly accessible to all segments of society, especially vulnerable and economically disadvantaged communities.

DO NOT JUST ARREST DRUG USERS — DISMANTLE DRUG TRAFFICKING NETWORKS

Furthermore, Vernando emphasized the importance of a balanced approach that integrates law enforcement, prevention, rehabilitation, character education, and social and economic empowerment.

According to him, firm and consistent legal action must be taken against major drug dealers and organized trafficking networks. At the same time, individuals suffering from drug dependence must have access to appropriate rehabilitation and recovery services in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

He reminded the public that combating drug abuse is a shared responsibility involving the government, law enforcement agencies, educational institutions, families, civil society organizations, and all elements of the nation.

“The state must be present not only when its citizens break the law, but also when they are struggling to survive and striving to build a better future,” he said.

GNB: INDONESIA NEEDS REAL ACTION, NOT JUST CRITICISM

As the National Chairman of Gaharu Nusantara Bersinar, Vernando reaffirmed his organization’s commitment to continuing to develop social initiatives focused on drug prevention education, youth protection, character development, and strengthening public awareness and social responsibility.

He also called upon all sectors of society to move beyond merely observing problems or expressing criticism and instead become actively involved in preventing drug abuse through meaningful and concrete action.

“Indonesia does not lack people who can speak, criticize, and offer opinions. What we need is more people who possess the courage, compassion, and commitment to step forward, get directly involved, and bring about meaningful change,” he said.

According to Vernando, protecting the younger generation must become a shared national priority that transcends differences in political interests, groups, and organizational affiliations.

“We do not want Indonesia’s younger generation to lose their future because of drugs, poverty, and injustice. The government must fulfill its responsibilities, and society must also actively participate in this struggle,” he firmly stated.

Concluding his statement, Vernando called for drug prevention and eradication efforts to be viewed not merely as criminal justice matters but also as complex social challenges requiring integrated policies involving prevention, economic development, law enforcement, and education.

“DO NOT JUST FIGHT DRUGS! FIGHT CORRUPTION, ILLEGAL LEVIES, MAFIA PRACTICES, AND POVERTY AS WELL! SAVE THE FUTURE OF INDONESIA’S YOUNGER GENERATION!”

Vernando Sihombing
National Chairman
Gaharu Nusantara Bersinar (GNB)

Gaharu Nusantara Bersinar — Moving Together to Save Indonesia’s Younger Generation.

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