Jakarta—President Joko Widodo said that Indonesia has taken important steps in fighting climate change at the opening of the Indonesian International Sustainability Forum (ISF) 2024 in Jakarta on Thursday, September 5. Still, he said, it will not be enough without strong global cooperation.
“Local efforts such as mangrove planting and green industry development will not be enough.” In an official statement, Jokowi said international support is needed, “especially in terms of funding and technology transfer. ”
Indonesia has great potential to absorb carbon, one of which is through the world’s largest mangrove forest, covering 3.3 million hectares. This forest can absorb carbon 8 to 12 times better than tropical rainforests. In addition, a 13,000-hectare green industrial area is also part of Indonesia’s efforts to realize a sustainable economy.
The President emphasized that these efforts will be limited if developed countries do not make real contributions. “All this potential will not have a significant impact if developed countries are reluctant to invest, research and technology are not shared, and funding is not provided with schemes that alleviate developing countries,” Jokowi said firmly.
In his speech, Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan mentioned that Indonesia plays a crucial role in the region’s sustainability. He highlighted Indonesia’s rich natural resources, including critical minerals needed for the green energy transition.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin Indonesia), Arsjad Rasjid, added that the business world has an important role in achieving sustainability. According to him, the private sector is no longer only profit-oriented but also has great social and environmental responsibilities.
ISF 2024, attended by more than 11,000 participants from 53 countries, is expected to be an important platform to accelerate international collaboration on decarbonization and sustainability. The forum also targets increased collaboration on five key pillars of sustainability: energy transition, green industry, biodiversity conservation, sustainable lifestyles, and blue economy.
ISF will host in-depth discussions with more than 250 speakers from various sectors during the two-day event. Keynote speakers include Teo Chee Hean, Senior Minister of Singapore, Fadillah Yusof, Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, and CEO of Bezos Earth Fund, Andrew Steer. The forum will also facilitate the signing of 12 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) related to the energy transition, signalling a shared commitment to a more sustainable future. (Hartatik)
Banner photo: President Joko Widodo delivers remarks at the opening of the Indonesia International Sustainability Forum (ISF) 2024 at the Jakarta Convention Center (JCC) Senayan, Jakarta, Thursday (5/9). (Source: Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment)
