Asia-Pacific youth tackle global goals at Jakarta summit

 Indonesia’s Vice Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar urged student leaders to embrace empathy and cross-border collaboration to address global challenges during the Asia-Pacific Young Leaders Convention (APYLC) 2026 in Jakarta 

The April 20–24 event gathers high school delegates from Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, and China to develop solutions on food security, public health, and inclusive economic growth.

“Answering global challenges cannot be done alone, but requires collaboration and a deeper understanding of the problems within the community, so that we can create a meaningful impact,” Umar said in a statement.

Binus School Director Sherrierose Garcia Gonzales said the ninth edition of the convention focuses on three United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).

“We also hope participants can take advantage of this opportunity not only to learn, but also to contribute through ideas and real action,” she said.

She added that the program reflects rising expectations for young people to respond to an uncertain global landscape, encouraging them to move beyond theory toward innovative and actionable solutions.

Delegations from Binus School Education (Indonesia), Kaichi High School (Japan), Nan Chiau High School (Singapore), and Changshu Lunhua Senior High School (China) are participating in the forum, which aims to broaden perspectives and strengthen long-term international cooperation.