JAKARTA – The international diplomatic arena witnessed an extraordinary display of intellect and leadership as Kenzio Muhammad Raharjo, a 12-year-old Indonesian student, emerged victorious at the Asia World Model United Nations (AWMUN) X 2025. Hosted in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from February 14 to 17, this year’s conference brought together some of the brightest young minds from around the world, each determined to showcase their ability in high-level diplomatic debates.
AWMUN, widely recognized as one of Asia’s premier Model United Nations (MUN) conferences, provides a simulated environment where students step into the shoes of diplomats, representing nations in discussions on global issues. The conference spans multiple UN committees, including UNICEF, WHO, UNDP, and UNESCO, where participants analyze and debate real-world challenges while working toward practical resolutions. The experience sharpens their public speaking, negotiation, and policy-making skills, preparing them for future careers in diplomacy, law, and international affairs.
At this year’s conference, Kenzio represented his delegation in the UNICEF committee, tackling the critical issue of inclusive and equitable education. His ability to dissect the root causes of educational inequality was impressive, as he addressed key concerns such as economic disparities, digital exclusion, and the lack of resources for educators in developing countries. He demonstrated an acute awareness of the widening global education gap, particularly in underserved regions where children face immense barriers to learning due to poverty, limited access to technology, and inadequate school facilities.
His proposed solutions reflected a visionary approach to education reform. He championed Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) as a means to secure funding and drive sustainable improvements in education systems, advocating for collaborative efforts between governments, corporations, and NGOs. He also stressed the importance of expanding digital learning opportunities, urging nations to invest in internet connectivity and technological resources to make education more accessible to children in remote areas. His arguments were well-researched, logically structured, and delivered with remarkable confidence, making him a standout figure in the UNICEF council.
Kenzio’s diplomatic skills were on full display as he skillfully navigated complex negotiations, built alliances with fellow delegates, and garnered support for his resolutions. His ability to engage with representatives from diverse cultural and national backgrounds demonstrated a level of sophistication rarely seen in someone his age. His powerful oratory, persuasive reasoning, and ability to foster consensus ultimately earned him the prestigious Best Delegate award, a recognition given to the most influential and effective participant in each committee.
Reflecting on his achievement, Kenzio emphasized the transformative power of education in shaping the future. “Education is not just about knowledge; it is about empowerment. When every child has the opportunity to learn, we create a generation capable of solving global challenges,” he stated. His passion for educational equity and his ability to articulate his vision resonated deeply with the audience, further solidifying his position as a future leader in global affairs.
AWMUN 2025 attracted a diverse pool of young diplomats, each striving to leave their mark in international discourse. The event provided an invaluable platform for critical thinking, leadership development, and cross-cultural collaboration, allowing participants to experience firsthand the complexities of real-world policymaking. Kenzio’s success in such a competitive environment underscores the immense potential of Indonesian youth to thrive in global diplomacy.
His journey at AWMUN serves as an inspiration for the next generation of Indonesian students, proving that with dedication, knowledge, and strategic thinking, young minds can influence international discussions and drive meaningful change. His achievement is a milestone not just for himself but for Indonesia’s growing presence in global diplomacy, signaling a promising future for the nation’s young leaders on the world stage.
