UNAIR NEWS – Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) hosted the MPR RI Goes to Campus National Seminar at Garuda Mukti Hall, MERR-C Campus, on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. The event featured Dr. H. Eddy Soeparno, S.H., M.M., Deputy Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly of the Republic of Indonesia (MPR RI), alongside Prof. Dr. Ni Nyoman Tri Puspaningsih, Dra., M.Si., UNAIR’s Vice-Rector for Research, Innovation, and Community Development, as keynote speakers.

UNAIR Rector Prof. Dr. Mohammad Nasih, S.E., M.T., Ak., delivered the seminar’s opening remarks. The distinguished professor from the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB) emphasized the critical role of students in maintaining national unity and tackling global challenges through analytical thinking and concrete actions.

“We are all witnessing the escalating effects of climate change. Coastal flooding in Jakarta, unusually high temperatures during Surabaya’s rainy season, and the increasing frequency of landslides across various regions are clear indicators. These are not merely natural occurrences but also consequences of an economic mindset that prioritizes exploitation over sustainability,” Prof. Nasih stated.

Collaborative efforts for energy transition

Prof. Nasih underscored the importance of energy transition as a fundamental approach to mitigating climate change. “We must begin reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and embracing renewable energy. UNAIR has been at the forefront of research in this area. For example, we have developed zero-emission vehicles for Gili Iyang Island, Madura, an area recognized for its exceptional air quality,” he explained.

He further stressed that sustainable development should be a priority, ensuring a balance between resource utilization and environmental conservation. “This planet belongs to all of us, and we must guarantee that our innovations and research contribute to practical and effective solutions for ongoing climate issues,” he added.

Furthermore, Prof. Nasih encouraged greater engagement between MPR RI and universities to foster meaningful dialogue with students. “This is a tangible example of the people connecting with their representatives. UNAIR possesses a wealth of research that can be leveraged for the nation’s progress,” he affirmed.

In his concluding remarks, Prof. Nasih urged students to take an active role in preserving national values and advancing sustainable development. “Let us move forward together, for the power to drive change rests in our hands,” he concluded.

Author: Samudra Luhur Pambudi

Editor : Edwin Fatahuddin