Luang Prabang, ECNETNews – Indonesia has garnered extensive support from external partners for the development of smart cities, according to Amran, the Acting Director General of Regional Administration at the Ministry of Home Affairs.
During the 7th Annual ASEAN Smart City Network (ASCN) meeting held in Luang Prabang, Laos, on July 30, 2024, Amran highlighted ongoing global projects funded by Official Development Assistance (ODA) from South Korea, specifically for the construction of Indonesia’s new capital. He also mentioned a feasibility study for the “Banyuwangi Smart Kampung” initiative facilitated by the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism through the Japan ASEAN Mutual Partnership (JAMP).
Amran noted the positive outcomes achieved in pilot project regions due to collaborative efforts from various nations, cities, and ASCN external partners, which significantly supports the development of smart cities and accelerates sustainable investment in Indonesia.
Representing Indonesia, Amran led the delegation at the ASCN annual meeting, which included representatives from the Indonesian Ministry of Home Affairs, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for ASEAN Cooperation, and local government officials from Banyuwangi, Makassar, and Sumedang, as well as academic representatives.
During the meeting, Amran summarized Indonesia’s activities as ASCN Chair for 2023, including the 6th ASCN Annual Meeting held in July 2023, which featured discussion topics on Industry and Innovation, Quality Environment, Safety, Security and Built Infrastructure, and Civic, Social, Health, and Well-Being.
Amran also announced that Indonesia has been officially designated as the ASCN Shepherd for the 2023-2025 period, emphasizing successful collaborations with external partners to expand investment opportunities. These initiatives include the ASEAN-Norway Business, Policy and Stakeholder Engagement on Circular Economy and Smart Cities Solutions, the 5th ASEAN-Japan Smart Cities Network High-Level Meeting, and the Smart City Professional Program Short-Term Training and Master’s Degree Course.
The ASEAN Smart City Network (ASCN) serves as a platform for cities in the ten ASEAN member countries to collaborate on developing intelligent and sustainable urban solutions using technology as a key support tool. Currently, the ASCN encompasses 31 pilot cities, four of which are from Indonesia: DKI Jakarta, Makassar, Banyuwangi, and Sumedang, each led by a Chief Smart City Officer (CSCO) with national representation from the National Representative (NR).
