The Young Liberals and Democrats of Asia (YLDA) welcomed newly elected Friedrich Naumann Foundation Chairman Dr. Wolfgang Gerhardt to it secretariat in Manila.
Dr. Gerhardt met with YLDA President Jonathan Malaya, Membership Chair Jan- Argy Tolentino and Program Officer Anne Elica?o about the youth's role in politics and international policy-making. Dr. Gerhardt pointed out that YLDA was a good political training ground for young people, especially in there home countries. He also offered some good advice. It would be prudent, he said, for YLDA to strongly advocate an important issue confronting the region. It would help YLDA give direction to its members and show how strong the youths' convictions are.
"My impression is good," said Dr. Gerhardt in an interview with The Liberal Times Manila Podcast. "I met the younger people of (our) Asian partners. It is indeed a strong liberal community we have in Asia."
Garda Bangsa was formed in 1998 following the successful political reform spearheaded
by students and other campus activists to depose the tyrannical regime of President
Suharto. The organization was founded by Abdurram Wahid, a former adviser of President
Suharto who resigned following an escalation in government corruption and political
management by the administration. He championed "Responsible Openness"
within the government system and proposed the establishment of a Reform Committee
in order to mitigate poor governance within the administration. His calls were
left unheeded and so he eventually withdrew support for the government and joined
the efforts advocating for reform in the government. Read more...
Youth and Campus Activism in Indonesia
Campus activists are among the strongest
movement forces of Indonesian politics. Throughout history, they have maintained
a critical mass, which enables them to affect change and inspire the greatest
reforms within Indonesian government. Read article
YLDA with Garda Bangsa
Chair Camelia Puji Astuti Read chat
YLDA with Garda Bangsa
Chair Camelia Puji Astuti