Discussing Renewable Energy, Vice Speaker of MPR RI Holds Dialogue with IPB University Vocational School Students
The IPB University Vocational School hosted a discussion focused on strengthening democracy and transitioning to renewable energy. Held in Zeta Hall, the event was attended by the Vice Speaker of the Indonesian People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR), H Mohammad Eddy Dwiyanto Soeparno, SH, MH, who engaged directly with lecturers, student organizations, and students from all study programs.
This forum not only provided a platform for the academic community to voice their aspirations but also underscored a shared commitment to realizing sustainable development in Indonesia.
In her opening remarks, Dr Rina Martini, Vice Dean of IPB University Vocational School for Academic, Student Affairs, and Alumni, stated, “This event strengthens our democracy by involving academics, not just as representatives but as guardians of Indonesia’s welfare.”
Dr Rina emphasized the importance of IPB University in preparing human resources (HR) who are not only technically competent but also environmentally and sustainability conscious. “The IPB University Vocational School is committed to producing professionals ready to face the challenges of the green economy, renewable energy, and food security,” she added.
The topic of energy transition was a focal point in the discussion. Dr Beata Ratnawati, Chief of the Environmental Engineering and Management Study Program, explained the role of academics in addressing Indonesia’s energy and carbon emission challenges. According to Dr Beata, this effort can be achieved through effective carbon management and a shift to more environmentally friendly electrical energy.
“Every sector consumes energy and contributes to carbon emissions. With carbon management through mandatory and voluntary markets, we can reduce the negative impact on the climate,” she explained.
She added that the transition from fossil fuels to electrical energy is essential in reducing carbon emissions and tackling the increasingly alarming climate change. “Academics and policymakers must work together to accelerate this energy transition,” Dr Beata emphasized.
In his keynote address, MPR Vice Speaker H Mohammad Eddy Dwiyanto Soeparno encouraged universities to actively engage in discussions and research related to renewable energy. “The energy transition is a necessity, not an option,” he asserted.
Eddy stressed that all societal elements must participate in accelerating the energy transition, especially academia, which holds resources in research and innovation.
He also highlighted the importance of downstreaming Indonesia’s natural resources, such as nickel, which can be processed into high-value products like electric vehicle batteries. “If we can process nickel into batteries, its economic value could increase by up to 300 times,” he noted, adding that this benefits the economy and reduces dependence on fossil fuel imports.
In addition to the in-depth discussion, the event featured an interactive Q&A session between participants and speakers. Some students raised questions about carbon tax policies and government support for renewable energy innovation.
In response, Eddy explained that while the carbon tax policy faces resistance, it is a necessary step to encourage companies to transition to cleaner energy sources. “A carbon tax needs to be implemented so that we can control emissions and move towards a greener direction,” he explained, emphasizing that this tax will incentivize companies to start investing in renewable energy.
By holding this event, IPB University Vocational School demonstrated its commitment to fostering students prepared for a sustainable and democratic future. This activity reflects the crucial role of higher education institutions in creating synergy among academia, government, and industry to build a better and more competitive Indonesia. (NPA/Rz) (IAAS/RUM)
