Among the awardees was Yayasan Inisiatif Peduli Bangsa (Indonesia for Refugees) founder Cassia Tandiono an 11th grade student at Pelita Harapan School who received the Pemuda Berprestasi International (Internationally Achieved Youth Award).

The ministry said the selection process was tight because there were many accomplishments in education, natural resources, environment and tourism, food, technology innovation, religion, social and culture to choose from. Awards were also given to young entrepreneurs in the food and culinary, trade and service and creative industries, as well as youths with disability.

"We handed out these awards based on creativity, innovation and leadership, as well as initiative, entrepreneurship and volunteerism, in the hope that they will inspire other Indonesian youths," said the ministry's youth development deputy, Asrorun Niam Sholeh, in a statement.

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"We are honored to receive this award. Of course, there are still many things to do to help refugees, that's why we will continue to invite our friends to join us, either as a volunteer or donor to help refugees pursue their education and increase their skills, especially children and women, that will allow them to continue their life," said Cassia, who was inspired by her grandfather Tahir Foundation founder and philanthropist Dato’ Sri Tahir.

According to the UNHCR, out of the 22.5 million refugees in the world who left their home country due to politics and conflict, more than 14,000 were currently in Indonesia. Many of them are said to have been living in the archipelago for years. (kes)

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