IPB University Students Explore Smart City Initiatives, MSMEs, and Local Tourism in Semarang
Graduate students from the Regional Development Management (MPD) Study Program at IPB University conducted an academic visit to Semarang City, located in Central Java. The visit included important sites such as the Semarang City Government, Djadhoel Batik Village, and Wonolopo Tourism Village. The delegation was led by Dr. A. Faroby Falatehan, the program chairman, and Dr. Deni Lubis, the program secretary.
Significance of Local Government in Regional Development
During the visit, Dr. Falatehan emphasized the significant role of local governments in regional development, noting that the Semarang City Government is actively implementing smart solutions to address urban challenges encountered by residents.
Efforts to Establish Semarang as a Smart City
These initiatives are part of wider efforts to establish Semarang as a smart city, particularly supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The 4P Program, managed by the Semarang City Cooperative and MSME Office, provides assistance in education, training, capital, and marketing, which has been instrumental in advancing these objectives.
Environmentally Sustainable MSMEs
Dr. Falatehan acknowledged the increasing importance of environmentally sustainable MSMEs, describing the development of artificial tourism options as an effective strategy for Semarang, recognized as a significant transit city on Java Island.
Vision for a Livable and Sustainable Metropolitan Area
Sugeng Hartanto, Chief of Planning, Control, and Development Evaluation at the Semarang City Regional Development Planning Agency (Bappeda), outlined the city’s vision of becoming a livable, modern, and sustainable metropolitan area through its smart city program. This initiative aims to develop a smart economy, environment, and society.
Broader Approach to Smart City Development
Hartanto also pointed out that while smart city development is frequently linked to digital technologies, it encompasses a broader approach aimed at providing innovative solutions to local issues, thereby enhancing public services and strengthening the tourism and MSME sectors.
Productive Exchange of Insights
The visit from the MPD Study Program was regarded as a productive opportunity for sharing insights and experiences related to the planning processes and complexities involved in the development of Semarang City.
Thematic Village Initiative
Furthermore, Supriyanto, an artisan from the Kampung Jamu (Herbal Village) in Wonolopo Tourism Village, discussed the creation of Kampung Jamu, which was designated a thematic village by the Mayor of Semarang in 2016. As of 2024, it includes 30 artisans focused on producing herbal medicine, adding to the unique tourism offerings.
(Source: IPB University)
