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In her essay, Indira spotlighted the issue of uneven intra- and interregional connectivity in Indonesia, which she views as the main foundation in realizing the vision of 2045 Golden Indonesia. Drawing from her academic background in urban and regional planning, she emphasized that before discussing other sectors such as education or healthcare, the most basic foundation is interregional connectivity.

“Indonesia is an archipelagic country, but each region is still disconnected from one another. When we talk about 2045 Golden Indonesia, we’re talking about viewing Indonesia as one united whole—from Sabang to Merauke. And yet, one thing that’s often forgotten when discussing 2045 Golden Indonesia is the issue of interregional connectivity,” she explained.

Indira proposed a solution through enhancing regional connectivity by integrating public transportation systems which she believed could reduce regional inequality and open up more equitable access for all Indonesians, especially those living in remote areas.

^{Urban and Regional Planning student, Indira Akmalia Hendri, pictured with fellow winners of the National Essay Writing Competition “Golden Indonesia in My Eyes” at the Center for Art, Design, and Language (CADL) Building, ITB Ganesha Campus, Friday (May 9, 2025). (Documented by Indira Akmalia Hendri)}
She admitted that her main motivation for entering the competition was not solely to win, but rather to use the essay as a medium to express her concerns, aspirations, and ideas as part of the Indonesian young generation about the country’s future. “This competition is more than just about winning — it is a space for expressing our concerns, aspirations, and ideas as youths in pursuit of the 2045 Golden Indonesia vision,” she added.

During the writing process, the greatest challenge she faced was balancing the time to do it with her final thesis project, as she is currently in the final stage of her undergraduate studies. Nonetheless, she remained committed to completing her essay to the best of her ability.

Her main strategy was to bring forward an idea that was both unique and distinct from other participants. “Be unique! Present a fresh idea — something others may not have thought about,” she revealed.

Through her essay, Indira hopes that society — especially the younger generation — can learn to view Indonesia more holistically, not just from the perspective of big cities, but also from the remote regions that are often overlooked.

“In essence, I want to convey the message that we must see Indonesia as a whole — from Sabang to Merauke. Indonesia is not just about big cities. It is also about the distant, remote regions that are just as important,” she said.

As a closing note, Indira shared an inspiring message for her fellow students. “Never underestimate your small ideas or random thoughts. Let’s start writing — because it is those simple ideas from you that can push this nation forward.”