Balikpapan - Muh Bilal Al Islami, a student of the Actuarial Science Study Program at Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK), has achieved an international accomplishment by receiving the Best Group Leader award at the International Conference Santri Mendunia Batch 6, held through a series of activities in Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.

The 2022 Actuarial Science student participated in the conference by presenting a paper entitled “Disconnected but Connected: The Crisis of Muslim Youth in the Digital Era.” The paper highlights the phenomenon of young people who are increasingly connected through technology while simultaneously facing challenges such as social isolation, pressure from social media, identity crises, and spiritual emptiness.

Through his idea, Bilal proposed the implementation of Islamic coping mechanisms as an approach to strengthening the mental and spiritual well-being of Muslim youth amid rapid technological development. Values such as tawakkul, dhikr, tafakkur, muraqabah, and prayer are integrated with digital literacy to encourage young people to use technology wisely without losing their identity, values, and sense of purpose.

The idea was inspired by concerns surrounding the phenomenon of the “Disconnected Generation,” a condition in which individuals experience high levels of virtual connectivity while becoming increasingly distant from meaningful social relationships and spiritual connection in real life. According to Bilal, technological development needs to be balanced with a strong foundation of values so that young people are not only digitally adaptive but also mentally and spiritually resilient.

Bilal’s journey to the international conference involved several stages, including gathering information about the program, completing administrative requirements, and participating in an interview selection process. After being selected, he prepared himself by studying the organizing institution, the conference theme, and various relevant issues to support his participation in discussions throughout the program.

His participation in the international conference also provided an opportunity to broaden his experience, knowledge, and network with participants from various backgrounds. Beyond personal development, Bilal hopes that his achievement can encourage other ITK students to confidently pursue opportunities and demonstrate their capabilities on the international stage.

Muh Bilal Al Islami’s achievement as Best Group Leader demonstrates that ITK students are not only capable of contributing in academic and technological fields but are also actively bringing forward ideas related to social issues, spirituality, and the challenges faced by younger generations amid digital transformation.

Through this achievement, the spirit of ITK students to continue learning, building networks, and delivering impactful ideas at both national and international levels is further strengthened, reflecting the commitment of ITK Berdampak from Bumi Etam to the world.