BNN Urges University Students to Play as Agents of Narcotics Abuse Prevention

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Head of the National Narcotics Agency of the Republic of Indonesia (BNN RI), Suyudi Ario Seto, delivered a public lecture titled “A Drug-Free Generation: Defending the Nation Without Drugs” to 4,800 newly enrolled students of Universitas Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran” Jakarta (UPNVJ) in Central Jakarta on Monday, August 10, 2026.

As quoted from bnn.go.id, the event was part of the series of activities for the Introduction to Campus Life for New Students (PKKMB) and also served as an opportunity for BNN to strengthen young people’s resilience against the threat of narcotics abuse while encouraging students to play an active role as agents of narcotics abuse prevention.

The theme of the public lecture was considered consistent with UPNVJ’s identity as a national defense-oriented university, as well as the theme of the 2026 PKKMB, “Youth with Character, National Defense with a Real Impact on the Nation.” In the context of the narcotics threat, the Head of BNN RI affirmed that the spirit of national defense can be demonstrated by young people through the courage to protect themselves and their communities and to firmly reject narcotics abuse.

“In the context of narcotics, national defense for young people is no longer about taking up arms, but rather the ability to firmly say no to narcotics,” he stressed.

The Head of BNN conveyed that the narcotics threat has become increasingly complex and has evolved into transnational crime that exploits digital technology, logistics networks, modern financial systems, and digital spaces that are difficult to detect. According to the data presented, the prevalence of narcotics abuse in Indonesia during the 2023–2025 period reached 2.11 percent, equivalent to approximately 4.15 million people.

The 15–24 age group is among those requiring particular attention, with a prevalence rate of 2.53 percent. Students were also warned about the emergence of new psychoactive substances (NPS) and the growing use of electronic cigarettes or vapes as a means of abusing substances. BNN has tested 341 vape liquid samples and found that several samples contained hazardous substances, including synthetic cannabinoids, methamphetamine, and etomidate.

According to the Head of BNN RI, the narcotics threat affects not only individual health but can also hinder Indonesia’s efforts to fully capitalize on its demographic bonus. A healthy, integrity-driven, skilled, and productive younger generation is an important asset in realizing Golden Indonesia 2045.

He said that protecting young people from the threat of narcotics also means safeguarding the quality of Indonesia’s human resources and the nation’s future. In addressing this challenge, BNN is not only focusing on enforcement efforts but is also strengthening upstream prevention and intervention strategies through five pillars: prevention, recovery, empowerment, resilience, and collaboration.