On September 16, 2024 , ASECH hosted a high-level meeting with the Regional Secretary (Sekda) of West Java in Jimbaran Hub, Bali. The meeting focused on exploring key initiatives to drive innovation, sustainable development, and smart city implementation in the region. Attended by regional leaders, business stakeholders, and representatives from various sectors, the event served as a platform to discuss new collaboration opportunities, especially in the areas of horticulture, education and waste management .
Jatinangor: New Digital Knowledge Center
ASECH also announced ambitious plans to make Jatinangor as “City of Digital Knowledge” , a new innovation hub that aims to address urban challenges through technology and collaboration. The official launch event is scheduled for December 11-12, 2024, and will be supported by renowned local institutions such as UNPAD and ITB, as well as partnerships from various sectors.
City of Digital Knowledge will focus on solving urban problems such as waste management and infrastructure, while encouraging digital innovation and entrepreneurship. By transforming Jatinangor into a knowledge and technology hub, ASECH and its partners aim to build a smart city model that can be replicated across Indonesia.
Zero Waste Initiative in Jatinangor
Demonstrating their commitment to sustainability, ASECH and Sekda also discussed the implementation of the Zero Waste program in Jatinangor. This initiative will involve local communities and BUMDes (Village-Owned Enterprises), by utilizing advanced waste management technology. One of the innovations highlighted is the creation of asphalt from recycled plastic, a solution that not only reduces waste but also contributes to infrastructure development.
Open Innovation Forum and Expo
Other upcoming key events include the Open Innovation Forum and the City Challenges Expo, which will encourage universities, businesses and innovators to present solutions for the development of Jatinangor. The Expo will showcase real-world applications of technology in urban settings and highlight successful examples of innovation in smart city management.
Next Steps: Building Collaboration and Engagement
The meeting concluded with several follow-up steps to ensure the successful implementation of these initiatives:
- Action Plan Development : A detailed timeline preparation and task allocation process will be undertaken to guide the implementation of these projects.
- Pre-Event Activities : Leading up to the launch in December, a series of innovation competitions and contests will be held to engage students and the local community in developing new ideas for the growth of Jatinangor.
- Capacity Development : Education-based activities, including game-based learning, will be introduced to enhance the skills and capacities of local government officials and civil servants, ensuring the sustainability of these initiatives.
Conclusion
This collaborative meeting between ASECH and the Regional Secretary of West Java affirms a strong commitment to fostering innovation, sustainable practices, and international collaboration. From advancing environmentally friendly education models to creating digital knowledge centers, these initiatives are poised to transform Jatinangor and other areas in West Java into thriving, sustainable, and innovative communities.
