Badung, 22 May 2024 – Indonesia's young generation is committed to actively participating in finding solutions to global water problems. Providing access to accurate information and data is essential for conducting analyses and preparing recommendations for planning and managing water resources for all stakeholders.

Neil Andhika, a representative of the Youth World Water Forum who also works as a lecturer at Gadjah Mada University (UGM), made the statement in the "The Bandung Spirit Water Summit" discussion, a part of the series of events for the 10th World Water Forum (WWF) at Bali International Convention Center (BICC), Nusa Dua, Bali, Tuesday (21/5/2024).

“Our goal is to provide recommendations for planning and managing water resources to all stakeholders, particularly government institutions and international institutions, ensuring our voices are heard and fostering collaboration," Neil said during a discussion adopting the theme "Water, Disasters, and Climate Change" at "The Bandung Spirit Water Summit.

“Perhaps they [the students] can offer more innovative and creative solutions to all water-related problems and other associated issues," he said.

In addition, Neil, who represents approximately 27 working groups from 45 countries at the Youth World Water Forum, underlined the importance of instilling a wise perspective on water resources management from a young age. The goal is to recognize the impact of water problems early, thereby fostering awareness and understanding.

Echoing the same sentiment, a representative from U-INSPIRE, Hilman Arioaji, stated that Indonesia's young generation is eager to contribute to innovation in water management and disaster risk reduction. However, they face significant barriers in accessing quality data, which limits their ability to innovate and implement locally based solutions.

According to Hilman, the contribution of the younger generation is crucial, especially in addressing water problems, disaster prevention, and climate change. This can be achieved by ensuring access to information for everyone at all levels, including young people through a global water information system.

Not only Neil and Hilman, other youth figures who spoke at 'The Bandung Spirit Water Summit' included Moina Al Hajji from Aleppo, Syria. Moina addressed how a country destroyed by war could rebuild its infrastructure, including water systems.

Another speaker, Lamis Qdemat from Palestine, urged that water should not be used as a weapon, as is happening in Palestine. He stressed that water should promote cooperation, collaboration, and solidarity, not be used as a tool of war.