Jokowi Calls for 'UN 2.0' at Penang Peace Dialogue

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September 6, 2026 | 04:49 pm

Former President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo delivers a speech at the PSI regional coordination meeting in Mesuji Regency, Lampung, June 26 2026. Doc. DPP PSI

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesia's seventh president, Joko "Jokowi" Widodo, stated that the challenges facing today's world are increasingly complex, with conflicts remaining interconnected and transboundary. Therefore, he believes the international community must build a new United Nations 2.0.

"As we need a stronger global institution, stronger global mediation and stronger global diplomacy to keep peace, now we must move beyond the old edition of the UN and build a new edition, the new UN 2.0," Jokowi said.

Joko Widodo made these remarks during his address at the Penang Peace Dialogue held in Penang, Malaysia, on Sunday.

He noted that the challenges facing the global community are growing ever more complex. Conflicts are interconnected, and their impacts transcend national borders.

Therefore, he added, the UN must reform and redefine its systems, processes, and strategies to operate more effectively, foster a better world, and remain relevant.

"Because sustainable prosperity can only be achieved when every nation chooses peace over conflict. Cooperation over competition, and collaboration over division," he explained.

Jokowi emphasized that no country can succeed alone, no nation can prosper amid conflict, and no peace can be forged without trust. He also noted that Southeast Asia has evolved beyond a diverse region into a living model of how civilizations can coexist, learn from one another, and grow together.

In many ways, Jokowi stated, Southeast Asia serves as a crucial blueprint for inter-civilizational collaboration in a multipolar world. "Here in Southeast Asia, differences are not barriers; differences are bridges to understanding, cooperation, and shared progress," he said.

Therefore, he urged that these same core values should also guide developed nations.

Jokowi reminded attendees that the greatness of an advanced nation is measured not merely by technological prowess, economic strength, or political clout, but by its responsibility, wisdom, and capacity to foster peace, stability, and shared prosperity.

"Developed countries must not focus solely on their own interests; they must shoulder greater responsibility to build trust, strengthen cooperation, and help create a more peaceful world," Jokowi said.

The Penang Peace Dialogue was convened to address critical issues surrounding global peace. The event was also attended by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and his delegation at a gala dinner on Saturday evening, September 5. Indonesian Consul General Wanton Saragih, his diplomatic staff, local community leaders, and various international figures and media representatives were also in attendance.

Read: Malaysian PM Anwar Phones Jokowi During Penang Visit

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