Natalia Adel, a doctoral student in Population Studies at the Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada (SPs UGM) from Kupang and a scholarship recipient from Universitas Nusa Cendana, took part in the talk show titled “STAY OR LEAVE? THE YOUTH DILEMMA IN THE #KaburAjaDulu PHENOMENON”. The event, organized by the Leadership and Policy Innovation Program, took place on March 5th 2025, at the Auditorium, 5th Floor, SPs UGM.
Natalia expressed her interest in joining the talk show as the #KaburAjaDulu phenomenon has been a trending topic on various social media platforms. “In my opinion, this theme is very responsive to Indonesia’s current situation,” she stated.
During the discussion session, the invited speakers provided comprehensive perspectives. Prof. Dr. Sukamdi, M.Sc. (Senior Researcher at PSKK UGM) explored the phenomenon from theoretical and academic standpoints. Meanwhile, Judha Nugraha (Director of Protection for Indonesian Citizens at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs) discussed migration-related issues encountered by the ministry. Additionally, Dr. Media Wahyudi Askar, M.Sc. (Lecturer at FISIPOL UGM) complemented the discussion by sharing his experiences living as an academic abroad.
Reflecting on the discussion, Natalia appreciated the relevance of the topic. “I believe this type of event should be evaluated for its continuity. If data shows that this phenomenon is increasing and the issue continues to develop, then a follow-up talk show should be held, inviting young individuals who have directly experienced this phenomenon,” she added.
Natalia also emphasized that #KaburAjaDulu is not necessarily a negative phenomenon but should be approached wisely. “My message is not to blindly follow this trend. First, understand its purpose, prepare the necessary skills, and carefully consider the steps to take. For students and fresh graduates facing the challenge of job hunting, this phenomenon is not just about leaving but about how to use it for self-development,” she concluded.
Writer: Arfikah Istari