IGAF LC IPB University Invites World Leaders to Strengthen Water Diplomacy at KIWW 2025, Korea

 delegation of IPB University students contributed to the success of Korea International Water Week (KIWW) at EXCO, Daegu, Korea. Together with the Asia Water Council (AWC), the Indonesian Green Action Forum (IGAF) LC IPB University Student Activity Unit organized the “Technology, Implementation, and Policy (TIP) Platform” as one of the important series of KIWW events.

The TIP Platform, led by IPB University students, is a strategic discussion forum. It aims to strengthen the central role of the younger generation in cross-border water diplomacy, addressing the increasingly urgent global water challenges caused by climate change and environmental degradation.

In his opening remarks, Mawan Dwi Saputra, President of IGAF LC IPB 2025, said that hydro-diplomacy is very important to change the mindset from rivers that divide to rivers that unite. 

He also invited participants to make the session a space for youth-led leadership, negotiation, and cross-border collaboration towards a sustainable water future.

On that occasion, representatives of the IGAF LC IPB University delegation discussed various topics. Ratu Nasywa Aulia and M Sadid Yasir explained that increasing water demand, limited freshwater availability, and the risk of cross-border disputes make water diplomacy essential. 

They cited the dispute in the Mekong River Basin and the Naktuka case between Indonesia and Timor Leste as issues rooted in uneven water management.

Next, Nikita Putri Alyfia presented on IGAF Practices. She explained how IGAF conducts research in its community by empowering young people as builders of collaboration, advocacy, and trust, and consistently demonstrates the active contribution of Indonesian youth to global water governance.

After the discussion and reflection session, Hannan Alfaheem Yusuf recommended the need to strengthen political leadership, institutional capacity, and youth engagement through cross-border collaboration and science-based policies.

“Hydro-diplomacy goes beyond political negotiations. It requires mutual trust and responsibility for transboundary waters,” he said.

He concluded, “Collaboration must begin with the courage to listen and work together, so that the younger generation can protect and manage water peacefully and sustainably,” Sadid concluded.

IGAF LC IPB’s participation in KIWW 2025 actively demonstrates the contribution of IPB University students to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while positioning IPB as an active player in international water diplomacy.

Present Dr Taiwhan Kim (Director of Planning, Asian Water Council), Dr Nidal Salim (Director, Global Institute for Water, Environment, and Health), Ilhyang Park (Junior Member, Asian Water Council), and Mr Abimanyu Pratama (IPB Renewable Energy Association). (*/Rz) (IAAS/NRA)