The existence of punks is a real manifestation of the phenomenon of marginalized groups that is difficult to ignore. Punks are a group that visibly shows conditions of marginality. They tend to be isolated, excluded from the mainstream of social life, and are often labeled as unproductive and even disturbing elements of society. The concept of marginality itself refers to individuals or groups who are on the edge of the social and economic structure, do not have adequate access to resources, opportunities, and social protection enjoyed by the majority of society. This group covers a wide spectrum, from beggars, vagrants, scavengers, people with disabilities, street children, to punks, each of whom has unique characteristics and challenges but is equally vulnerable.

Ironically, the phenomenon of marginalized groups, including the existence of punks, is not only limited to remote areas or large cities in general, but also extends to the corners of areas that are considered to be the buffer zones of the capital city. Various negative perceptions that have developed in society towards punks have further exacerbated the conditions of marginalization they experience. They are often stigmatized as criminal groups, thugs, alcohol and drug users, and are considered as a source of problems that disrupt public order. This phenomenon is a very loud alarm for the government and society as a whole to pay more serious and focused attention to the existence of punk children. Ignoring them is the same as letting the potential of human resources go to waste and maintaining social problems that have the potential to become more complex. In fact, handling punk children does not always have to be oriented towards a repressive or stigmatizing approach. A more constructive and humanistic alternative is through a spiritual approach that aims to raise self-awareness, internal motivation, and positive potential that may be latent within them. This approach has been practiced by several religious figures who try to empower punk children through da'wah bil-hikmah, namely the delivery of religious teachings in a wise, persuasive, and heart-touching manner (referring to Q.S An-Nahl [16]: 125). Through spiritual guidance, it is hoped that punks can rediscover positive values ​​in life, rebuild their self-confidence, and be motivated to change their life path for the better.

The concept of empowering punks, if implemented comprehensively and sustainably, can be a very significant step in realizing an inclusive economy. An inclusive economy is an economic development model that not only focuses on growth, but also ensures that the benefits of that growth can be felt by all levels of society, including marginalized groups such as punks. This empowerment recognizes that punks, as part of society, also have the right to get decent jobs and opportunities to improve their standard of living, especially amidst increasingly pressing economic pressures.

Author: Hilya Maylaffayza

Image Source: Suara Surabaya