Revitalizing the River: Festival Ciliwung 2024 Brings Sustainability to the Forefront

DEPOK, Indonesia — Against the backdrop of Setu Pangarengan’s serene waters, nestled within the expansive campus of the Indonesian International Islamic University (UIII), the Festival Ciliwung 2024 concluded on Friday, December 20, 2024, with a poignant call to action for environmental sustainability.

Spearheaded by Pertamina New & Renewable Energy (Pertamina NRE) and Pertamina Hulu Energi, the event showcased a robust agenda aimed at fostering awareness and collaboration around waste management and environmental preservation. The highlight of the festival was a community-centric initiative to protect the Ciliwung River, one of Indonesia's most vital waterways, which has long been burdened by pollution and neglect.

A Green Vision in Action

Indonesia’s Minister of Environment, Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, closed the festival with a powerful message underscoring the government’s commitment to sustainable development. "Environmental preservation must be a shared responsibility," he noted, emphasizing the necessity for policies that balance economic growth with ecological stewardship.

The minister also invited various parties to collaborate in cleaning the Ciliwung River and other rivers across Indonesia to ensure they become reliable sources of clean water for the public. “Let’s restore our rivers to their original state, return them to their vital role for all of us, and reduce or avoid excessive groundwater extraction. Let’s bring rivers back as sources of civilization,” he urged.

He further remarked that UIII has a large green area, and it would be beneficial to enhance its greenery. “It would be great if we work together to make this campus greener so it can contribute oxygen and help regulate the water system,” he stated.

“The strategic location of UIII along the banks of the Ciliwung River made it an ideal host for the festival,” said Prof. Jamhari, the Rector of UIII. The university, with its lush green campus, was described by Pertamina representatives as a “model for environmental conservation in urban spaces.”

"Collaboration is key," said Ahmad Siddik Badruddin, Director of Risk Management at Pertamina. "By uniting government, local communities, and the private sector, we can create a lasting impact on environmental sustainability."

Ahmad also stated that this initiative will serve as a legacy for the next generation, ensuring they can still have access to clean water for their lives. He emphasized that rivers are an integral part of the environmental ecosystem. “We welcome this effort and will strive to make the next event a success,” he said.