Special Open Forum Luncheon with Governor of Jakarta, Dr. Anies Baswedan
On July 15th 2019, USINDO held a Special Open Forum Luncheon with Guest of Honor, Governor of Jakarta, Dr. Anies Baswedan in Washington D.C. In this opportunity, Governor Baswedan shared Jakarta’s development, economic, and social challenges and its progress on tackling these issues.
Baswedan discussed about solutions undertaken to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution by improving public transportation system and encouraging residents to use “the one transportation tool that almost everybody has: feet to walk.” He shared about the city’s progress for Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and Light Rail Transit (LRT). The city also continues to provide more sidewalks and convenient public places. He further highlighted the importance of collaboration between government and its citizens in implementing infrastructure projects. “We are using City 4.0 approach where city government is collaborator and people are co-creators, so we have to work together to solve our challenges.”
During the Q & A session, Governor Baswedan invited private sectors to partner with the city government to tackle some economic challenges, such as housing for lower income families and unemployment. In facing the “sinking Jakarta” issue, he also explored solutions for water management and land subsidence. The luncheon was highly successful in updating Washington’s audience on Jakarta’s development challenges and progress. The event was attended by wide range of groups, from U.S. government officials, businesses, academics, NGOs, and students. The luncheon took place at the Cosmos Club, Washington D.C.
To see pictures of the luncheon, please visit our Flickr at https://flic.kr/s/aHsmFWy9xZ