MPR RI Goes to Campus National Seminar: Promoting Energy Transition at Universitas Airlangga
On March 19, 2025, the People’s Consultative Assembly of the Republic of Indonesia (MPR RI) collaborated with Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) to host the MPR RI Goes to Campus National Seminar. This event took place at the Garuda Mukti Hall, located on the fifth floor of the Management Office at UNAIR’s MERR-C Campus. The seminar’s theme was “The Urgency of Energy Transition in Preventing Climate Change Impacts.”
Keynote Address and Opening Remarks
Prof. Dr. Ni Nyoman Tri Puspaningsih, the Vice-Rector for Research, Innovation, and Community Development at UNAIR, delivered the keynote address. Alongside her, Dr. Eddy Soeparno, Deputy Speaker of MPR RI, participated in the proceedings. The Rector of UNAIR, Prof. Dr. Mohammad Nasih, also contributed by providing opening remarks at the event.
UNAIR’s Proactive Stance on Climate Change
In her keynote presentation, Prof. Puspaningsih emphasized the proactive stance of UNAIR in addressing climate change and facilitating the energy transition. She outlined the university’s comprehensive strategy for confronting these critical issues, noting that transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy must consider ecosystem balance, biodiversity conservation, and environmental sustainability.
Holistic Approach to Energy Transition
Prof. Puspaningsih stated, “At UNAIR, a holistic approach is advocated. Energy transition extends beyond simply moving away from fossil fuels; it involves ensuring harmonious interactions between living organisms and their environment. A commitment to a transition that does not jeopardize biodiversity or ecological stability is essential.”
Incorporating Biodiversity in Energy Policies
Additionally, Prof. Puspaningsih stressed the importance of incorporating biodiversity into energy transition policies to promote the sustainability of natural resources and enhance food security.
Collaboration and Eco-Friendly Innovations
UNAIR has gained recognition for its dedication to eco-friendly energy innovations. The university collaborated with Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS), Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Institut Seni Indonesia (ISI) Bali, and PT Industri Kereta Api (INKA) to develop the Merah Putih Electric Bus for the G20 Summit held in Bali.
Student Involvement in Research and Development
In discussing the electric bus project, she noted the significant involvement of UNAIR students in its research and development. Despite being a relatively new entity, the Faculty of Advanced Technology and Multidiscipline (FTMM) made considerable contributions, alongside the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST), often engaging in late-night work at PT INKA to advance this initiative.
Research and Community Development Initiatives
Through the Research Centre for Now and Renewable Energy Engineering (RCeNREE), UNAIR is actively engaged in renewable energy research and the development of solutions pertaining to electric vehicles as well as energy derived from wind, water, and geothermal sources. Furthermore, the university established the World University Association for Community Development (WUACD), which encompasses 41 universities globally and is focused on addressing sustainability challenges, particularly regarding new and renewable energy solutions.
Conclusion of the Seminar
The seminar concluded with a group photo session, symbolizing the collective commitment to advancing sustainable practices and innovations within Indonesia.
Original source: Fania Tiara Berliana Marsyanda, Edwin Fatahuddin Ariyadi Putra
