Gen Z has to deal with various pressures that, if not handled well, could make them fragile and fall.

Bogor, W Java (Indonesia Window) – Despite having a number of positive characters such as being technologically literate, independent, creative and curious, Gen Z has to deal with various pressures which, if not handled well, could make them fragile and fall.

The discussion about the identity of Gen Z and the challenges faced by the generation born between 1997 and 2013 was discussed at a talk show called 'GenZi Talk' on February 18 at KoatKafe, Dinoyo, Malang, East Java.

A written report regarding this event received here on Thursday, stated that the event was participated in by around 60 teenagers and students.

The event, which was organized by a Muslim women community in Malang, was hosted by Iranti Mantasari, M.Si, who is a young mother active in fostering a Muslim women community, presenting a speaker, Tatik, PhD, an academic and a mentor of Muslim teenagers and students community.

“Gen Z is currently facing various pressures coming from social media, economic uncertainty, and social issues, which always make them filled with anxiety. This discussion is important because the majority of the world's population today is Gen Z," Tatik said.

“As caliph fil Ardh (leaders on the Earth), they have a big role. Therefore, support is needed to strengthen and confirm their identity," she added.

The talk show also explored how to strengthen Gen Z’s identity in the digital era.

“Technology and digitalization provide significant pressures, so it is important to understand the purpose of life, the concept of destiny, and to stay away from a hedonistic lifestyle. Using technology wisely, choosing a supportive environment, and realizing their potential and role in society are the keys to strengthening Gen Z's identity," she explained.

The talk show featured a touching poetry performance, describing the condition of youths in Palestine.

The performance focused the participants' attention on differences in identity, with a question: 'Why are Palestinian youths able to face challenges so strongly, while Muslim youths in other places who are not involved in the conflict appear fragile, easily stressed, and even desperate to end their lives?'

Responding to this question, Tatik raised the participants' awareness that they were in a battlefield of thought and digital technology.

“Palestinian youths are aware that they are on the battlefield so they prepare themselves. Meanwhile, many young people in Indonesia do not realize that they are colonized by capitalist and secular thinking, and are in a battlefield of ideas (ghazwul fikri)," she explained.

She added, “The threat of colonization of thought is more dangerous because it could not be felt. Therefore, Gen Z needs to be aware of their role, improve critical thinking, have Islamic knowledge, and be prepared to face the challenges of the times with their intelligence and potential."

The talk show ended by absorbing inspiration from the history of great young people in the Islamic world who attained extraordinary achievements at a young age.

They had big visions, got a good Islamic education, were aware of their roles and responsibilities, and were prepared to fight on the battlefield where they were, in order to restore a glorious Islamic civilization.

Reporting by Indonesia Window