Exploring the values embedded in sexual intelligence for character building of the nation

Addressing sexuality as an integral aspect of human development remains a persistent challenge in Indonesia and many Eastern cultures and regions on the planet, where sex is probably the most taboo word due to religious ethics. This condition may lead to personality and character issues in young people as a consequence of neglect or delay in sexuality education. The current study explores the concept of sexual intelligence, examining its important values and potential to enhance character education for the nation’s young generation. It aims to critically analyze how understanding and developing sexual intelligence can contribute to individuals responsible decision-making, healthy relationships, and ethical behavior. This study employs a qualitative approach with a narrative literature review method to explore relevant concepts, theories, and previous research results. This narrative literature review method follows the steps of determining the topic and scope, establishing the research area and main questions, searching literature, selecting relevant sources, conducting literature analysis and synthesis, and compiling and writing the results of the study. The findings indicate that sexual intelligence is a combination of self-knowledge, good communication, empathy, and responsibility in living a sexual life. It is not only about sexual activity itself but also about how a person understands, manages, and expresses sexuality in healthy, ethical, and religious ways. This study shows that sexual intelligence and positive character traits to some extent overlap, especially with respect to the components of sexual intelligence and how they relate to personal and moral values. This study suggests that incorporating sexuality education into both formal (school-based) and informal (community-based) settings can contribute to building a stronger national character.