Jakarta, ABIM (2/5/2024) – As the world’s largest water forum event since the COVID-19 epidemic, the selection of Indonesia as host for the 10th World Water Forum is both an honor and a source of national pride. The event, scheduled for May 18-25, 2024 in Nusa Dua, Bali, will provide participants with an introduction to the rich cultural diversity of Indonesia, with a focus on Bali.
Sandiaga Uno, Chair of Sector V Fair and Expo of the 10th World Water Forum, and also Minister for Tourism and Creative Economy, in his statement on Friday, April 26, 2024 stated that, one of the highlights will be the Melukat procession, also known as the Balinese Water Purification Ceremony. This is a revered Balinese custom that holds great spiritual importance, utilizing the concept of Rahina Tumpek Uye and Upacara Segara Kerthi.
“The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy will mostly support delegations in experiencing the Melukat procession, which has particular spiritual significance for the Balinese people. The local government official will be involved in this melukat procession,” Sandiaga said recently.
He further stated that the Indonesian Government as the host was fully committed to preparing the 10th World Water Forum optimally. The goal is that the delegates or participants who attend will be able to capture preccious moments outside the important discussion forum regarding the issue of sustainability of world water resources.
“And we are planning various side events at multiple locations,” Sandiaga added.
Vice Chair of the National Secretariat Committee for the 10th World Water Forum and Senior Advisor to the Minister of Public Works and Housing (PUPR) for Technology, Industry, and Environment, Endra S. Atmawidjaja, stated that the 10th World Water Forum has three main processes: political, regional, and thematic processes, all of which will involve various stakeholders. These include heads of state, ministers, regional leaders, academics, researchers, and even youth who will participate in exchange of ideas.
“There are 230 thematic forum sessions, 55 side events, and 10 special sessions. Additionally, the Indonesian government has invited heads of state, heads of international organizations, and ministers or minister-level officials responsible for water resource issues.” Endra said.
The series of events for the 10th World Water Forum will begin with the Balinese Water Purification Ceremony, which is one of Bali’s traditional rituals, utilizing the concept of Rahina Tumpek Uye and Upacara Segara Kerthi. On May 20, 2024, Opening Ceremony and High-Level Meeting will commence at BICC, Nusa Dua. This will be followed by interface meetings with relevant parties for political, thematic, and regional processes, as well as bilateral meetings with several heads of state.
On the same day, the Fair and Expo will be opened at Nusa Dua Hall BNDCC. Subsequently, the Fair and Expo will be held at BNDCC, BICC, and Kuta Beach. Political, thematic, and regional process sessions will be held from May 20 to 25, 2024. Meanwhile, the High-Level Meeting and Ministerial Meeting are specifically scheduled for May 20-21, 2024.
Furthermore, there will be a Cultural Night (Farewell) agenda at Taman Bhagawan on May 24, 2024, where guests may enjoy local cuisine, traditional dances, and Indonesian culture. The closing ceremony will take place on May 25, 2024. After the World Water Forum activities conclude, participants will also be invited on a field trip, including to the Water Museum in Tabanan, the Jatiluwih UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lake Batur in Kintamani, and the Cultural Village in Ubud.(ABIM)
