Awakening Spirit at 23 Years of Age for Banten Province: Successes and Challenges Ahead

By: Prof. Wawan Wahyuddin, Rector of SMH Banten

(INDONESIAN VERSION) Banten Province, which has just celebrated its 23rd anniversary, has undergone a diverse journey. In this journey, we have experienced moments of joy and sorrow that enriched our experiences and made us stronger. As we step into this youthful age, let us collectively reflect on the achievements we have accomplished and the challenges that lie ahead.

First and foremost, in this moment of gratitude, we must acknowledge that Banten is currently undergoing three significant transitions. The first transition is institutional. An essential aspect of this transition is the transformation in the field of education. Previously, universities like Sultan Maulana Hasanuddin University (Untirta) did not have public status, but now it has become a reality. Similarly, the transformation of IAIN Banten into UIN Banten, complete with magnificent buildings, is a source of pride for us.

This transformation is also evident in the management of secondary education, which is now under the jurisdiction of the provincial level. Moreover, we can witness genuine efforts to support educational advancement through various scholarships provided by organizations such as BAZ (Zakat Amil Body), and collaborations with banking institutions.

Notably, we have also seen the establishment of the Regional Committee for Sharia Economic and Financial Affairs, which is crucial in developing the sharia economy sector. The presence of a halal industry center in Banten also demonstrates encouraging progress. These achievements are significant milestones that we must be grateful for as Banten reaches its 23rd year.

Furthermore, we must applaud the achievements of students from Banten who have achieved outstanding success. Many of them have continued their studies abroad, in countries such as the Netherlands, the United States, Middle Eastern nations, and Europe. This is a very positive indication for Banten’s future, as these individuals are valuable assets who can contribute to the province’s development.

The second transition we need to consider is the digital transition. Banten is not lagging behind in this aspect, with both the government and the private sector actively utilizing digital technology in various aspects of life. This will help accelerate economic growth and improve public services.

Meanwhile, the third transition is internationalization. With the presence of Banten International Stadium (BIS), we have responded to the call for internationalization, although its utilization still requires improvements in facilities and infrastructure. This is a positive step that reflects the government’s commitment to internationalization development.

However, alongside all the achievements that bring pride, we must also acknowledge that there are challenges that need to be addressed. One of them is the appointment of school supervisors, which must be well-coordinated to avoid potential disruptions in the education sector. Furthermore, the handling of drought-related issues in Banten is still not optimal and requires more serious attention. The issue of land transportation management is another area that needs improvement.

Drainage in Banten also requires attention because it often becomes a cause of harmful flooding. Therefore, we need collective action, including the involvement of Islamic students and university students, in cleaning the Cibanten river and raising awareness about the importance of environmental preservation.

Moreover, we must be able to seize the opportunities that lie ahead. For instance, the Tanjung Lesung area should not only be utilized as a beach tourism destination but also as a center for religious-based education. Effective proselytization does not only come from sermons but also through educational institutions.

In the future, Banten must play a significant role as an example for other regions in maintaining peace and harmony during the 2024 General Election. We must avoid unrest, and together we must build societal harmony.

Happy 23rd anniversary, Banten Province. Let us collectively move forward toward a better future, under the banner of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI) and the spirit of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika.