Opening of the 10th World Water Forum
The 10th World Water Forum in Bali, inaugurated by President Joko Widodo on May 18, 2024, was a critical meeting for global stakeholders focused on the future of water management. The presence of President-elect Prabowo Subianto highlighted the forum's significance to Indonesia. The event began with the Segara Kerthi ceremony, a symbolic respect for water as a source of life.
Cultural Events and Gala Dinner
A highlight of the forum was the Gala Dinner at the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park (GWK). The evening featured artistic performances of music and dance reflecting Indonesia's cultural richness. The dinner was uniquely accompanied by the Sape music performance by Ayuan Prawida, enhancing the attendees' experience in Bali.
International Presence and Technological Contributions
Technology mogul Elon Musk from the United States not only launched the Starlink internet service but also discussed the potential of desalination and other technologies in addressing water issues. His presence underscored the importance of technological innovation within the framework of water resource management.
Outcomes and Declaration
The forum resulted in an ambitious Ministerial Declaration including several key points:
Establishment of a Center of Excellence on Water and Climate Resilience in the Asia Pacific.
Proposal for the celebration of World Lake Day.
Creation of a Global Water Fund to support sustainable water financing.
Commitment to 113 projects worth a total of US$9.4 billion to enhance clean water access and wastewater management.
Numerous additional outcomes from this forum are available at https://worldwaterforum.org/
Closing of the Forum and Cultural Activities
Minister of Public Works and Housing, Basuki Hadimuljono, concluded the forum with a call for continued collaboration and preparations for the next forum in Saudi Arabia. The closing was followed by Cultural Nights at Taman Baghawan, where participants enjoyed local cuisine, performances, and showcase products. This was not just a farewell event but also a display of Indonesia's cultural diversity.
Conclusion and Future Implications
The 10th World Water Forum has set a new focus on collaboration, innovation, and sustainability in water management. With increasing global challenges, the forum emphasized the importance of integrating knowledge and resources, marking a significant step forward in ensuring that water, as a human right, remains protected and sustainable.
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