Acting Governor of East Kalimantan, Akmal Malik, reveals that several European countries have expressed their interest in investing in renewable energy, particularly solar power, in East Kalimantan.
“Solar energy development holds great potential in areas like Kutai Kartanegara, Samarinda, Paser, and West Kutai,” Akmal Malik said following a meeting with several ambassadors during a United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Indonesia event in Jakarta. on Wednesday, October 16, 2024.
The meeting was attended by ambassadors from countries such as New Zealand, Norway, Germany, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Italy, Ireland, and Switzerland, who voiced their interest in supporting the development of renewable energy in East Kalimantan, a region currently dominated by fossil fuel use.
Akmal emphasized that East Kalimantan is gradually transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy. Some mining companies, including PT Kideco Jaya Agung in Paser Regency, have already begun integrating renewable energy into their operations.
Additionally, East Kalimantan is expected to play a crucial role in supporting the development of Indonesia’s new capital, Nusantara (IKN), by attracting investment from countries committed to renewable energy.
Akmal encouraged regional stakeholders to diversify their partnerships beyond a single country, welcoming more collaboration with nations focused on green energy.
The discussions also highlighted the importance of decentralization for Indonesia, as it would allow regions to better prepare their economies, create jobs, and strengthen infrastructure − particularly in East Kalimantan, which is set to become a key supporter of IKN development.
