Heaptalk, Jakarta — The Indonesia International Sustainability Forum (IISF) 2024 officially kicked off for a two-day event on September 5-6, 2024, at the Jakarta Convention Center (JCC), Central Jakarta.
In his opening remarks, President Joko Widodo emphasized the importance of global collaboration in addressing climate change. He stated that the issue cannot be resolved if the world continues to use an economic approach driven by egocentric interests.
“To solve this, we need a collaborative approach, a humanitarian approach, and collaboration between developed and developing countries, as well as humanity. Therefore, the process does not sacrifice the interests of the lower class,” Jokowi said during the IISF 2024 opening ceremony at JCC, Central Jakarta, on Thursday (09/05).
Jokowi emphasized that the green economy is about environmental protection and creating sustainable prosperity for society. The government is committed to significantly contributing to achieving net-zero emissions by tapping into various green energy potentials.
“Indonesia has abundant green energy potential, reaching over 3,600 gigawatts. We also have the Cirata Floating Solar Power Plant with a capacity of 192 megawatt-peak (MWp), the largest in Southeast Asia and the third largest in the world,” he explained.
Moreover, Indonesia has 3.3 million hectares of mangrove forests, which can effectively absorb carbon, and one of the largest green industrial zones in the world. However, these efforts will not significantly impact if research and technology access remains limited.
Jokowi added, “All of this will not have a significant impact on accelerating the fight against climate change unless developed countries are willing to invest, research and technology are made widely available, and funding is provided in a way that eases the burden on developing countries. These three points are crucial for us all to note.”
Furthermore, he called on all parties to join the global effort. IISF is expected to serve as a meeting place for knowledge, experience, and resources to collaborate in tackling international climate challenges. “Indonesia is very open to partnering with anyone to maximize the potential for a greener world, to provide equitable access to green energy, and to drive inclusive and sustainable economic growth,” Jokowi concluded.