10th World Water Forum in Bali to Spark Investment Prospects
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: The 10th World Water Forum (WWF), scheduled to take place in Bali, presents a significant opportunity for investment in water infrastructure development, as highlighted by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Investment. Nani Hendiarti, the ministry’s deputy for environmental and forestry management coordination, emphasized the potential for addressing water issues in Indonesia through increased investment.
To achieve the ambitious goal of providing safe, equitable, and affordable access to drinking water for all by 2030, an estimated additional funding of US$1.7 trillion is required. Currently, the growth in investment for drinking water pipe access stands at 20.6 percent, necessitating approximately Rp123 trillion (around US$7.91 billion) to elevate it to 30 percent.
Recognizing that the state budget alone cannot meet these needs, a blended financing scheme involving investment capital becomes imperative. The 10th WWF is poised to host a strategic business meeting, focusing on collaboration and investment potentials in water infrastructure development. Post-event, the aim is to strengthen Indonesia’s cooperation with strategic partners to expedite water infrastructure development.
The forum, themed “Water for Shared Prosperity,” will unfold from May 18–24, 2024, encompassing thematic, political, and regional processes. Six sub-themes, including water security, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable water finance, will be explored, alongside regional discussions covering the Mediterranean, Asia-Pacific, Americas, and Africa.
The political process will bring together heads of state, ministers, and other authorities, with an expected participation of 30 thousand individuals, including 33 heads of state, 190 ministers from 180 countries, and representatives from 250 organizations attending 214 forum sessions.
