PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - Acting Governor of West Java Bey Machmudin opened the 2024 West Java Youth Forum (WJYF) at the Holiday Inn, Bandung City, Tuesday (10/29/2024).

WJYF 2024 aims to encourage the active involvement of the younger generation in regional development, while providing a platform for them to convey innovative ideas and solutions to various social problems.

WJYF 2024 is also expected to be able to spur the productivity of the younger generation and contribute to the welfare of society.

"We hope that young people in West Java will be more productive and ultimately be able to improve the welfare of the people of West Java," said Bey Machmudin.

WJYF 2024 is attended by 100 selected young people from 27 districts and cities in West Java. They will be introduced to various programs of the West Java Provincial Government and help accelerate in society.

"For young people, lucky and grateful to be selected in WJYF 2024. This is a step for them towards a better future. We at the West Java Provincial Government are also helped, for example in terms of socializing important issues such as waste management, public transportation, and mental health," said Bey.

He added that direct interaction with participants showed the great potential of the younger generation in overcoming social issues currently facing society.

Bey gave an example, several participants who have a background in psychology can play a role in providing support for people who need mental health assistance.

"The way young people convey messages and help the community is certainly more effective than just adults. This is what we need to create a more prosperous society," he said.

Meanwhile, Head of the Administration Bureau of the West Java Regional Secretariat, Mas Adi Komar, explained that WJYF 2024 succeeded in attracting more than 500 registrants, of which 100 selected participants got the opportunity to participate.

Participants were divided into five focus issues, namely economic empowerment, education and literacy, renewable energy, environment, and health.

According to Adi, WJFY was initiated to empower youth in facing complex development challenges.

"West Java Youth Forum 2024 provides an opportunity for inspiring youth to voice their aspirations on various issues such as economic empowerment, education, renewable energy, health, and the environment," he said.

Adi explained that the series of events included Leader's Talk sessions, Master Class, Coaching Clinic, and field visits to environmental initiative locations in West Java, including the Shining Waste Bank and the Citarum River.

Next, participants will present their social projects in front of a jury, with awards for the best ideas that are able to provide concrete solutions for society.

Adi hopes that WJFY 2024 can produce creative and practical ideas that can be implemented to address social challenges in West Java society.

"Hopefully this collaboration can create solutions that are beneficial to the community and inspire the younger generation to contribute to regional development," he concluded.