Building Indonesia's Sustainable Future

Takeaways from Forum Merajut Masa Depan Indonesia 2024 - Tri Hita Karana Universal Reflection Journey

Last weekend, I had the privilege of joining hundreds of global figures, including prominent leaders, spiritual guides, renowned artists, media representatives, NGOs, religious leaders, and academicians, at the Tri Hita Karana Universal Reflection Journey. Organized by the United In Diversity Foundation at the Kura-Kura Bali campus, this hybrid event enabled both in-person and virtual participation, fostering global collaboration.

With the theme “United in Diversity for Peace, Prosperity, People, Planet, and Partnership (5P)”, the forum celebrated diversity as a strength in advancing sustainable development. Attendees included influential figures such as Grand Imam Nasaruddin Umar, Pope Francis, Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh, World Bank President Ajay Banga, Bridgewater founder Ray Dalio, spiritual leader Deepak Chopra, philanthropist Susan Rockefeller, Coordinating Minister Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, Mari Elka Pangestu, Alissa Wahid (National Coordinator of the Gusdurian Network), Minister Meutya Hafid, Deputy Minister Stella Christie, and representatives from the Indonesian government, NGOs, academia, business representatives, and media.

The Heart of Tri Hita Karana

The forum centered on Tri Hita Karana, a timeless Balinese philosophy harmonizing relationships with God (Parahyangan), humanity (Pawongan), and nature (Palemahan). These principles align with Pancasila (5 principles of Indonesia), the principles of Islam, namely hablum minallah (relationship with God), hablum minannas (relationship among humans), and hablum minal alam (relationship with nature), as well as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Together, they offer a comprehensive framework for sustainable and balanced development, which becomes particularly valuable as we tackle sustainability issues, such as climate change, water scarcity, social equity, and technological transformation.

This philosophy was brought to life through insights and reflection shared by religious leaders who emphasized the importance of spiritual harmony in fostering peace, while NGOs advocated for inclusivity and environmental stewardship. Media representatives explored their role in shaping inspiring narratives, and academicians contributed data-driven solutions and research-based recommendations for sustainable development.

A Call to Action for Indonesia Emas 2045

The mission was clear: harness Indonesia’s rich traditional wisdom to create a sustainable future by 2045. Drawing from the teachings of Otto Scharmer and Peter M. Senge, I emphasized three principles for transformation:

1. Open mind – Embrace diverse ideas, information, and perspectives.
2. Open heart – Cultivate empathy and respect in building relationships.
3. Open will – Foster shared commitment to collaborative solutions.

These values are essential for addressing Indonesia’s multifaceted challenges while celebrating its rich diversity and heritage, as well as shaping our shared future.

Strength in Diversity

The forum demonstrated Indonesia’s potential to lead with its cultural, intellectual, and ecological diversity. Highlights included:

• Religious leaders advocating for harmony and shared humanity,
• NGOs sharing innovative solutions to address social equity and environmental challenges,
• Media representatives amplifying positive narratives and promoting sustainable behavior,
• Academicians offering evidence-based policy insights and cutting-edge research,
• Business leaders presenting strategies for sustainable growth,
• Government officials outlining inclusive development policies, and
• Community leaders showing how to embrace progress while preserving cultural heritage.

Strategic Priorities for Indonesia Emas 2045

Discussions across sectors emphasized three clear priorities:

1. Strengthening public-private collaboration,
2. Integrating sustainable practices with local wisdom, and
3. Maintaining active cross-sector dialogue.

Each sector plays a vital and unique role: businesses drive innovation, governments ensure inclusivity in policies, civil society preserves cultural authenticity, religious leaders promote values across spiritual, social, and moral dimensions, local community leaders drive localised solutions, NGOs empower community empowerment, academicians shape informed policies, and media amplify collective action.

Lessons and Looking Ahead

The forum showcased how Tri Hita Karana bridges traditional wisdom and modern solutions. From sustainable business practices to community empowerment programs, Indonesia’s unique model offers actionable insights not only for local development but also for global sustainability challenges.

The journey to Indonesia Emas 2045 demands both ambition and pragmatism. By embracing Tri Hita Karana, Indonesia can pioneer a sustainable and inclusive model tailored to its unique challenges and opportunities. The hybrid format of this event reflected our shared determination to shape a brighter future together.

Thank you to the United In Diversity Indonesia Foundation, GUSDURian Network Indonesia and all participants for fostering such an inspiring dialogue. Together, we are weaving a sustainable and inclusive future for Indonesia and the world.

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