IDENTITAS NASIONAL: PENJAGA KEUTUHAN DAN KEBANGGAAN BANGSA

Abstract

National identity is a crucial element that supports the unity and integrity of the Indonesian nation. As a country rich in ethnic, cultural, linguistic, and religious diversity, Indonesia possesses a unique identity that serves as a strength in building national integration. However, in the increasingly widespread era of globalization, national identity faces significant challenges in the form of foreign cultural infiltration and shifts in local values. Globalization brings a dual impact: on one hand, it provides access to knowledge and technology, but on the other, it has the potential to weaken the nation’s character if not addressed wisely. Therefore, it is essential for every citizen to understand and apply the values of national identity in social, national, and state life. Education serves as a strategic instrument in instilling awareness of national identity among the younger generation, enabling them to filter global influences while upholding the nation’s true identity. Understanding and preserving national identity is not only a cultural necessity but also a strategic imperative to maintain the continuity and sovereignty of Indonesia amid the dynamics of the modern world.