This is precisely where we need a think tank — not merely as a complement to state institutions or as an addition to public discourse, but as a guardian of the republic’s common sense. A space willing to ask questions when many choose only to justify. A place courageous enough to think long-term when power is too busy pursuing the immediate.

GREAT Institute was born not out of satisfaction, but out of concern. From the belief that development without a clear set of values will only create inequality. As Václav Havel said, “The salvation of this human world lies nowhere else than in the human heart, in the human responsibility.” And it is that responsibility we now carry: to present honest research, strategic ideas, and the courage to speak plainly.

I believe that if this nation is to move forward, then the government — whoever leads it — must be willing to listen to voices that are independent, yet sincere. Voices that do not offer pleasantries, but ideas born from conscience and reason.

My gratitude goes to all colleagues who helped bring GREAT Institute into being. May this house of thought become a small light that illuminates our long journey toward a more independent Indonesia — economically, technologically, and politically.