Indonesia Stresses Role of Regional Governments in Water Management
Bali, The Gulf Observer: Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian underscored the critical role of regional governments in water management during the Local and Regional Government (LRG) session of the 10th World Water Forum held in Bali on Wednesday.
“In the first two days of this international forum, our leaders have spoken about water-related issues at the international and national levels. Today, we discuss the role of regional governments in water management,” Minister Karnavian stated in a release from his ministry.
The LRG session, attended by representatives from regional governments, domestic and international associations, and international organizations, focused on two main themes. The first theme, “Water as a Global Common Good,” aimed to foster joint commitments to address water risks, which Karnavian highlighted as a significant global threat.
The second theme, “Sustainable Water Infrastructure Management and Financing Strategies,” addressed the critical issue of inadequate financing for infrastructure development, particularly clean water infrastructure, which Karnavian emphasized must be resolved urgently.
Drawing from the ministerial declaration and meetings at the forum, Karnavian outlined several guidelines and measures for regional governments to enhance their contribution to water management. These include:
- Developing policies geared towards achieving water security.
- Improving water governance and diplomacy.
- Enhancing water quality and ensuring access to safe drinking water, thereby safeguarding people’s rights to water.
- Promoting long-term infrastructure investments through innovative financing.
- Encouraging inter-regional and international cooperation.
- Increasing public awareness and community participation in water and sanitation management.
Karnavian expressed optimism that the forum would generate viable solutions at both local and global levels, which could then be tailored to the specific challenges and characteristics of each country. He also highlighted Indonesia’s approach, where the central government supports regional governments in sharing best practices with their international counterparts, provided they comply with national laws.
The 10th World Water Forum continues to be a pivotal platform for addressing global water issues, with the active participation of regional governments playing a key role in advancing sustainable water management practices.
