Indonesia and Japan Deepen Partnership for Carbon Neutrality

Indonesia and Japan Deepen Partnership for Carbon Neutrality

Antara, The Gulf Observer: The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) of Indonesia is intensifying its research cooperation with Japan to advance efforts toward carbon neutrality, a primary focus for Indonesia.

“Carbon neutrality is Indonesia’s current priority. Japan possesses advanced technology related to carbon neutrality, and through this collaboration, we aim to phase out steam power plants (PLTU),” stated BRIN Head Laksana Tri Handoko in a statement on Tuesday.

Handoko highlighted that the recent cooperation with Japanese counterparts is a crucial step toward transitioning from coal fuel to local biomass. He emphasized that utilizing local biomass as a renewable energy source is a strategic move in achieving carbon neutrality, while Indonesia is also exploring the potential of nuclear power for large-scale energy production in the future.

Additionally, BRIN has commenced collaboration with Japanese industrial partners to develop bioavtur, a type of aircraft fuel derived from local Indonesian biomass such as coconut and other plants. “We anticipate that production will commence next year, followed by its utilization,” Handoko added.

Handoko expressed a strong interest in enhancing collaboration with Japan to develop superior human resources through research initiatives. BRIN is implementing various schemes and programs, including Master’s and PhD programs, in partnership with global entities, including Japan.

Japanese Parliament member Motegi Toshimitsu also underscored the significance of strengthening human resource exchange to foster bilateral relations and support rapid development in ASEAN countries. As Secretary General of the Japanese Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Toshimitsu emphasized the importance of cooperation for a shared future and highlighted Japan’s readiness to contribute ideas, including carbon neutralization and geothermal technologies, to bolster Indonesia’s industrial structure.

“The goal of carbon neutrality by 2060 in Indonesia can be realized through our collaborative efforts,” Toshimitsu concluded.