Indonesia, UNESCAP discuss research support for energy transition

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology explored opportunities for cooperation with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) on educational and research programs supporting Indonesia's energy transition.

Higher Education Minister Brian Yuliarto emphasized the government’s strong commitment to strengthening the role of universities in addressing obstacles to national development, inviting them to contribute through research, innovation, and academic studies.

“President Prabowo Subianto has issued a directive calling for the involvement of higher education institutions in various studies. In other words, Mr. President always asks for a second opinion from universities regarding every strategic policy,” he said in a statement here on Friday.

Yuliarto highlighted energy transition as one of the government’s priority issues, reflected in intensified efforts to reduce reliance on imported energy products and ongoing capacity-building initiatives aimed at producing qualified workers in the sector.

In this context, the minister stressed that universities could play a pivotal role in preparing talents equipped with the skills needed for national development, particularly in the energy field.

UNESCAP Executive Secretary Armida S. Alisjahbana noted that her office is currently implementing the Energy Transition for Green Growth and Prosperity program, with a focus on Indonesia and Thailand, among other countries.

She added that UNESCAP has engaged in a series of talks with Indonesian ministries, state agencies, industrial actors, and other stakeholders in collaboration with the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta to gather insights on key factors affecting the energy transition agenda.

The discussions included her meeting with Minister Yuliarto in Jakarta on Thursday (June 18), where both sides exchanged perspectives on the importance of factoring in studies and analysis in policymaking.

The Higher Education Ministry welcomed avenues for collaboration floated during the forum, including potential partnerships on research and capacity-building programs aligned with national and regional development priorities.

Related news: Indonesia key to global energy transition: ministry

Related news: Indonesia plans electric trains on three major lines for efficiency

Related news: Jakarta targets 50 percent emissions cut by 2030 via electric vehicles

Translator: Sean Filo, Tegar Nurfitra

Editor: Azis Kurmala

Copyright © ANTARA 2026