Documentation of a machine developed by an Undergraduate Mechanical Engineering student under the supervision of Didi Widya Utama // Doc: Untar Public Relations – DP
Every August 10, Indonesia commemorates National Technology Awakening Day (Harteknas), a historic occasion marking the maiden flight of the domestically developed N-250 Gatotkaca aircraft in 1995. The aircraft was designed by one of Indonesia’s most distinguished figures, Prof. Dr. Ing. B.J. Habibie, and remains a symbol of national technological progress and a milestone in the country’s pursuit of self-reliance in aerospace technology.
Behind this achievement lies the crucial role of mechanical engineering—the fundamental discipline that supports the development of mechanical systems, machinery, and technologies used in aircraft and countless other innovative products.
Recognizing this importance, Untar, through its Faculty of Engineering and particularly its Mechanical Engineering Study Program, is committed to nurturing a generation capable not only of utilizing technology but also of creating it.
“Mechanical engineering plays a vital role in driving a nation’s innovation. Nearly every aspect of our daily lives is directly connected to technologies developed through engineering,” said Didi Widya Utama, S.T., M.T., Ph.D., Secretary and Lecturer of the Mechanical Engineering Study Program at Untar. He added that one of Indonesia’s greatest challenges today remains its high dependence on foreign technological products.
According to Didi, mastery of mechanical engineering by Indonesia’s younger generation is essential if the country is to achieve greater technological independence.
“It is time for Indonesia to move beyond being merely a technology user and become a creator and pioneer of innovations driven by the intelligence and creativity of its own people,” he emphasized.
As a concrete manifestation of this commitment, the Mechanical Engineering Study Program at Untar continues to equip students with an internationally oriented curriculum that fosters analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a technopreneurial mindset. Students also have access to modern laboratory facilities, including CNC machining, automation and robotics, mechatronics, and additive manufacturing, enabling them to gain hands-on experience with the latest industrial technologies.
“We want our students not only to excel academically but also to be resilient in the professional world and capable of making meaningful contributions to national innovation,” Didi said.
Addressing Indonesia’s younger generation, particularly engineering students, Didi highlighted the importance of curiosity and creative thinking.
“Do not stop at asking questions—take action. Use your engineering skills and knowledge to transform ideas into real innovations. In your hands, technology is not merely something to be used, but something to be created.”
Happy National Technology Awakening Day 2025!
In the spirit of Harteknas, Untar’s Mechanical Engineering Study Program continues to move forward alongside Indonesia’s young generation in building national technological independence. Ultimately, technological awakening is about having the courage to create and the commitment to continuously innovate for a more independent and advanced Indonesia.
(VA/YS)