Jakarta, ABIM (5/5/2024) – The irrigation system in Bali, called Subak, will be showcased at the 10th World Water Forum, making it a source of pride for Indonesia. The Subak system is set to be introduced and will soon become a popular tourist destination for participants attending Nusa Dua from 18-25 May 2024.
The Minister of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR), Basuki Hadimuljono, emphasized the significant role of Bali in connecting water to various aspects of life in Indonesia. Subak is a community self-reliance system that ensures the fair and even distribution of irrigation water in rice fields.
Minister Basuki said, “Subak is a Balinese irrigation system as an embodiment of the cultural order with the characteristics of social independence, food security and religious strength with determination and a spirit of mutual cooperation to obtain water to produce food, especially rice and secondary crops,” during the XVIII World Water Congress in Beijing, People’s Republic of China, some time ago.
The Subak system beautifully exemplifies the deep connection between God, humans, and nature in the producing food and other needs. Subak reflects the profound idea of Tri Hita Karana, which harmonizes the realms of spirituality, humanity, and the natural world.
Due to its deep philosophical significance, Subak will be a key field visit destination at the 10th World Water Forum in Bali. The Subak system and landscape are currently recognized as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites.
“Integrating political, regional, and thematic processes with field visits will enhance and attract participants to the 10th World Water Forum. Bali’s longstanding reputation as a legendary tourist destination further adds to its appeal,” said Minister Basuki.
Sigit Reliantoro, Director General of Pollution and Environmental Damage Control at the Ministry (KLHK) of Environment and Forestry, stated that Indonesia’s success in implementing a monitoring system and maintaining water quality could serve as a model for other countries participating in the world’s largest water forum.
“We are planning a side event focused on water management systems in watersheds (DAS), Subak, and lakes, as well as showcasing our water control monitoring system, which we believe is more advanced than those in other countries. We aim to integrate this monitoring system with local governments, pentahelix collaboration with universities, and engage with private sector partners for a comprehensive approach,” said Sigit.
The Indonesian government, in collaboration with the World Water Council (WWC), has organized a series of meeting forums in preparation for the main event of the 10th World Water Forum. These forums encompass three key processes: political, regional, and thematic. The integration of these processes is crucial for achieving water as a pathway to collective prosperity.(ABIM)
