President Widodo Highlights Indonesia’s Water Infrastructure Achievements
Nusa Dua, The Gulf Observer: Indonesian President Joko Widodo took the spotlight at the 10th World Water Forum High-Level Meeting (HLM) in Nusa Dua, Bali, as he showcased the remarkable strides made by his administration in bolstering domestic water infrastructure. Addressing an audience of esteemed state heads on Monday, President Widodo underscored Indonesia’s decade-long commitment to enhancing water-related facilities.
“In the last 10 years, Indonesia has fortified its water infrastructure with the construction of 42 dams, establishment of 1.18 million hectares of irrigation networks, and implementation of 2,156 kilometers of flood control and coastal protection measures. Furthermore, extensive efforts have been made in rehabilitating 4.3 million hectares of irrigation networks,” President Widodo articulated during his opening speech.
Amidst his discourse, the Indonesian head of state emphasized the pivotal role of water, exemplified by the deployment of a floating solar power plant (PLTS) in the Cirata Reservoir, West Java, heralded as the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia.
Recognizing the paramount importance of water in sustaining human life, President Widodo referenced research from the World Bank, indicating that water scarcity could impede economic growth by up to six percent by 2050. “Water scarcity not only poses economic threats but also harbors potential for conflict and disasters. Both excess and insufficiency of water present formidable challenges globally,” remarked President Widodo.
Asserting the strategic significance of the 10th World Water Forum, President Widodo articulated its imperative role in revitalizing concerted action and collective commitment towards integrated water resources management.
The High-Level Meeting convened a prestigious assembly of world leaders, including Tajikistan Prime Minister Qohir Rasulzoda, President of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe, President of Fiji Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere, Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia Haji Fadillah Bin Haji Yusof, and Deputy Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea John Rosso.
Distinguished figures present at the meeting included President of the World Water Council (WWC), Loïc Fauchon; United Nations General Assembly President Dennis Francis; former Hungarian President Janos Ader; French special envoy Barbara Pompili; and Dutch special envoy Meike van Ginneken.
The 10th World Water Forum High-Level Meeting stands as a testament to global cooperation in addressing water-related challenges and forging sustainable solutions for the benefit of present and future generations.
