Modernity today brings not only accessibility but also freedom of space that opens various opportunities for Generation Z through the presence of the Internet of Things (IoT). Additionally, increasingly dynamic and adaptive social developments play a role in shaping a generation that is increasingly up-to-date.

However, behind all the convenience and access offered, modernity also brings significant impacts on the way young people think and behave. The demand to always be adaptive and creative is often accompanied by high social expectations, giving rise to anxiety and even depression.

It is not surprising that many of us end up trapped in "strange" behaviors just to get attention, ignoring empathy toward others, or even becoming arrogant because we feel superior with our technological capabilities. Selfishness grows instantly from an ambitious lifestyle and excessive desire for social validation.

Given the modern society that is increasingly filled with turmoil, let us step back for a moment from the hustle and bustle of the digital world and look at a figure who may sound like he has long passed—Prince Diponegoro.

Since childhood, with his original name Mustahar, he lived in Tegalrejo with his great-grandmother, Queen Agung. Tegalrejo at that time was an area of new land development, a gathering place for farmers and ordinary people. Despite coming from a royal family, Prince Diponegoro lived in a relatively simple and grassroots environment.

Through his life in Tegalrejo, his flexible and unpretentious personality began to form—which in the process also made him grow into a person who was respected, not for his status or material wealth, but for his authority and humility in treating others.

"The measure of a man is what he does with his power"—this quote might be fitting to represent one aspect of his life. With his status as a descendant of the Palace, Prince Diponegoro was known as an authoritative person. Authority here is not just an identity that arises from mere personal branding or external image-building. True authority—actually stems from consistency of character and care for others.

From authority born of trust from various parties, integrity is formed as a unity of soul, representing not only the individual but also the aspirations of others. As we know, UNDIRA friends, integrity is a unified trait that reflects self-understanding in maintaining perspective toward a greater purpose.

But what happens when our integrity is tested, as when Prince Diponegoro faced the cunning of General De Kock at that time? During the heated negotiations at De Kock's residence, Prince Diponegoro refused to draw his kris against De Kock.

"What will my descendants say if I draw this kris?" said Diponegoro.

His attitude at that time showed a valuable lesson, especially for the modern generation, that a truly integral soul will not be shaken even by the most bitter challenges—trust in the soul as well as the conviction we believe in for now and the future. That is where, UNDIRA friends, the moment when integrity will truly be proven.

Returning to the dilemma of the digital era that gives us power, authority, and the ability to connect, learn, and create without limits. However, as the saying goes, "With great power comes great responsibility," this power must be balanced with wisdom.

UNDIRA friends, authority and integrity are truly not built instantly, nor can they be measured. Authority is born from consistency in character, sincerity in interaction, and commitment to making a positive impact on the surrounding environment. Your fierce battle in the modern era is not only against external competitors but against internal "colonizers" in the form of ego, materialism, and selfishness that erode humanitarian values.

In the modern era, alongside expertise in knowledge and utilizing information technology, true character is a soul that holds firmly not only based on the desires of others but also loyalty to becoming a better person. So, UNDIRA friends, what is your first step to build authority and self dignity in the digital era?