Transforming Indonesia’s Energy Future: Australia Awards Alumni Lead the Way

The Australia Awards Short Course on Renewable Energy for Remote Communities concluded with a dynamic three-day Post-Course Workshop in Mamuju, West Sulawesi. Delivered in collaboration with the Australia-Indonesia Partnership for Climate, Renewable Energy, and Infrastructure (KINETIK), this workshop brought together 25 professionals from diverse sectors, including business, government, State-Owned Enterprises, Educations, and NGOs. Together, they focused on advancing renewable energy solutions for regional and remote areas in Indonesia.

Before attending the Post-Course Workshop, participants built on the lessons from their Pre-Course Workshop in Tambolaka and a two-week in-Australia course at Murdoch University in Perth. They explored strategies for implementing renewable energy systems and fostering sustainable practices. The Post-Course Workshop in Mamuju also provided a platform to exchange insights and develop actionable plans to address energy challenges in Indonesia.

The Australian Consul-General in Makassar, Mr Todd Dias, joined the workshop alongside representatives from the KINETIK program. Emphasising its importance, Mr Dias highlighted the workshop’s role in contributing to West Sulawesi’s economy and expanding collaboration in Indonesia. Acting Governor of Mamuju, Mr Bahtiar Baharuddin, expressed his appreciation, noting the workshop’s impact on promoting renewable energy knowledge and showcasing the province’s potential to attract global investors.

The participants also had an opportunity to visit Karampuang Island to see successful examples of Stand-Alone Power Systems (SAPS) that providing electricity benefits to approximately 3,000 residents and to public facilities.

Armed with new knowledge, practical experience, and strengthened networks, these participants are poised to make transformative contributions to renewable energy development in Indonesia. “The workshop significantly enhanced my understanding of renewable energy technologies and the pathways to integrate sustainable energy solutions for social, environmental, and economic resilience in remote communities,” shared one of the participants, Cita Febronia Utami.

We look forward to witnessing the positive impact of their efforts as Australia Awards alumni!