Depok, Indonesia – January 22, 2025 – The Center for Sustainability and Waste Management Universitas Indonesia (CSWM UI) successfully hosted the first Expert Forum of the year, titled “Revitalizing Local Community: Building Grass-Root Economic and Social Resilience.” The forum brought together experts, policymakers, and community leaders to discuss innovative strategies for strengthening local economies and enhancing social resilience through community organization.

This session provided participants with valuable insights on improving local bargaining power, promoting inclusive economic models, and fostering sustainable partnerships between industries, cooperatives, and grassroots communities. Experts also shared successful case studies of community-driven initiatives that have led to economic empowerment and long-term resilience.

“Empowering local communities means creating an ecosystem where they can thrive independently, leveraging their strengths while integrating sustainable partnerships,” said Rico Ricardo Lumban Gaol, moderator of the forum. “This session bridged knowledge gaps and inspired real action towards a more inclusive and resilient economic future.”

The forum featured speakers from key organizations, including Asosiasi Kader Sosio-Ekonomi Strategis (AKSES), and Rumah Sawit Indonesia (RSI). Discussions covered cooperative-based economic models, and industry perspectives on strengthening local community partnerships.