JPA Daily Buzz - Edisi 24 2026

page 2 Interestingly, the exact location of Methuselah is kept secret to protect it from vandalism and human interference. Hidden among ancient forests in the mountains, it continues to endure quietly through changing seasons. However, Methuselah may not be the only ancient tree competing for the title of the world’s oldest. In Chile’s Alerce Costero National Park, a Patagonian cypress tree (Fitzroya cupressoides) known as Alerce Milenario, or Gran Abuelo meaning “Great Grandfather” in Spanish has attracted the attention of scientists. Researchers estimate that this tree could be more than 5,000 years old, potentially making it even older than Methuselah. Scientists remain cautious about confirming its exact age. Because the tree is protected and extremely fragile, researchers were only able to extract a partial core sample rather than drilling all the way to its centre. Using tree-ring analysis and statistical modelling, some scientists estimate the tree could be around 5,400 years old, although this figure has not yet been fully verified. Beyond the fascinating science, the story of these ancient trees invites a deeper reflection about time and human life. From a psychological perspective , humans often struggle with long-term thinking. Our brains are naturally wired to prioritise immediate needs, quick rewards, and short-term results. In modern life, progress is often measured in days, months, or financial quarters. Yet when we encounter something that has lived for thousands of years, our sense of perspective changes. Psychologists refer to this experience as “awe.” Awe occurs when we encounter something vast or extraordinary that challenges our usual understanding of the world. Research suggests that experiences of awe can make people more reflective, more humble, and more aware of the bigger picture. In that sense, an ancient tree becomes more than a biological organism. It becomes a reminder of patience, endurance, and continuity. The story of the world’s oldest trees also offers meaningful lessons about leadership . In today’s fast-moving world, leadership is often associated with speed, rapid transformation, quick innovation, and immediate results. Organisations frequently measure success through short cycles and visible achievements. Yet the oldest trees in the world demonstrate a different principle, longevity is rarely built on speed alone . Just as the bristlecone pine grows slowly but develops extraordinary strength, sustainable leadership requires patience, resilience, and thoughtful decision-making. Strong institutions, like strong trees, are built over time. A good leader understands that storms will come, environments will change, and challenges will arise. The key is not simply to grow fast, but to build foundations strong enough to endure through change . The story of these ancient trees also offers an important reflection about our societies today . Many countries around the world are experiencing the realities of an ageing population . Advances in healthcare and living standards mean people are living longer than ever before. Older generations carry decades of experience, institutional memory, and accumulated wisdom. Younger generations, meanwhile, bring fresh ideas, creativity, technological fluency, and the energy to drive change. Just as forests thrive with trees of different ages, societies become stronger when experience and innovation exist together and perhaps that is the greatest lesson of all. In a world that often celebrates speed and novelty, the wisdom that comes with age should not be overlooked. Just as the oldest tree endures through time, societies grow stronger when the experience of older generations is balanced with the energy and innovation of younger ones . When wisdom and speed work together, the future becomes stronger andmore sustainable . Dr. Diyana Hassim Head of Corporate Communications Public Service Department