Bali – The 10th World Water Forum (WWF) held in Bali is clear evidence of the world’s trust in Indonesia as the host of a very strategic international event. The event, which was attended by more than 20,000 delegates from various countries, carried the theme “Water for Shared Prosperity” and was recognized as an important forum for discussing water issues which have a tremendous impact on human and natural welfare.
According to Teuku Rezasyah, International Relations Expert from Padjadjaran University (UNPAD), the water theme in the 10th WWF is very relevant for humans, considering that 70% of the human body consists of water and most of Indonesia’s territory is ocean.
“This theme is very strategic because water is a shared welfare,” said Rezasyah.
Rezasyah also added that the presence of 8 heads of state and 105 ministers from 132 countries at this forum shows Indonesia’s credibility in the eyes of the world, especially at the end of President Joko Widodo’s reign. The 10th WWF is not just an ordinary event, but an extraordinary international event with 350 discussion sessions and attended by thousands of participants and journalists from all over the world.
Rezasyah emphasized the importance of this forum as a place for countries to learn from each other about best water management practices, which include aspects of security, welfare and human survival.
Apart from discussions and learning, WWF guests also visited several tourist areas in Bali, which are expected to improve Bali’s economy which was previously affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. The presence of heads of state and high-ranking foreign officials at this forum also opens up opportunities for bilateral cooperation, apart from discussing urgent water issues.
Rezasyah also highlighted the reasons why Bali was chosen as the location for international events. Bali is considered to have good transportation, high security, and experience in holding international conferences.
“Bali is typical of Indonesia and has an ecosystem that has been formed to handle large events like this,” he explained. Furthermore, Rezasyah invited the Indonesian people to believe that this country is capable of managing international forums well.
“If there are good ideas from Indonesia for the world, we must also put them into practice domestically,” he said.
This is in line with Indonesia’s efforts to not only solve water problems at the national level, but also contribute to global efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to water.
By holding the 10th WWF in Bali, Indonesia not only demonstrated its capabilities as a reliable host, but also strengthened its position in global cooperation for better water management for shared prosperity.
