NZMATES Programme Adds Excitement to the 9th Indonesia Eastern Region Forum Festival (FFKTI IX) 2023

Yayasan BaKTI, in collaboration with the East Nusa Tenggara Provincial Government, organised the 9th Indonesia Eastern Region Forum Festival (FFKTI IX) in 2023, on July 26-27, in the city of Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara. The event aimed to celebrate the progress and innovation in Indonesia's development. In this festival, participants were invited to share information about smart practices, experiences, and learnings from various development programmes at the local level to strengthen and enhance programme management in support of national development success.

This event served as a platform for local, national, and international government and development partners to showcase new innovations from various successful development activities that address different development challenges. There are four main components of the FFKTI IX event, including side events, an inspiration stage, an information gallery, and a public celebration.

This year, New Zealand-Maluku Access to Renewable Energy Support (NZMATES) participated in the FFKTI IX agenda for the first time, hosting a side event and opening a booth. In this side event, NZMATES shared our experiences in supporting the adoption of renewable, reliable, and affordable energy in grid-connected and off-grid areas in Maluku Province. Kirk Yates, Development Counsellor at the New Zealand Embassy in Jakarta, was also present and delivered the opening remarks at the event.

The enthusiasm of the participants in the side event was evident from the lively discussions and the valuable feedback provided to the NZMATES programme. Participants suggested that NZMATES should collaborate with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and local governments in the East Nusa Tenggara region, and students from universities and vocational schools expressed interest in participating in training sessions.

A significant opportunity arose for the NZMATES programme during a special meeting with the Mayor of Kupang, George M. Hadjoh. The Mayor showed interest in the NZMATES program and its implementation, considering the similar geographical conditions between Kupang and some areas in Maluku. George believes that the same technology and approach to Renewable Energy can be implemented in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara.

At the booth, NZMATES showcased activities and knowledge products and exchanging information with local CSOs, local governments, and private sector Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs regarding the implementation of new renewable energy practices carried out in the Maluku Province.