ASEAN Foundation and the training program in Bandung

Executive Director of ASEAN Foundation, Dr. Makarim Wibisono was invited by Ambassador Linggawati Hakim, the Director of the Non-Aligned Movement Centre for South-South Technical cooperation (NAM-CSSTC) to deliver an opening remarks on the opening session of the training program on renewable energy: Micro – Hydro Power for rural development in ASEAN in Hotel Aston Tropicana, Bandung on June 18, 2012. The training program was inaugurated by Ambassador Triyono Wibowo, former Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs of Indonesia as the Chairman of the Board of Trustee of the NAM-CSSTC. In that opportunity, Mr. Ronggo Kuncahyo, Assistant to Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources of Indonesia delivered a key note speech on behalf of the Minister and highlighted the importance of micro-hydro power for rural development in ASEAN member states.

In his remark, Dr Makarim Wibisono stated that the ASEAN Foundation is pleased to be part of this important activity in cooperation with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources of Indonesia as well as with the NAM-CSSTC. The micro-hydro as power source can produce at approximately around 100 kWh of electricity by using the natural flow of water. These installations can provide power to an isolated home or small community, or are sometimes connected to electric power networks. There are many of these installations proved successful around the world, particularly in developing nations as they can provide an economical source of energy without the purchase of fossil fuel.

Dr. Makarim Wibisono further pointed out that from the very positive characteristics the micro hydro power plant have and with ample of locations available in the ASEAN region, it is feasible to develop seriously the system. He further wish this activity will resulting some positive outputs that will be able to appeal more ASEAN stakeholders to continue the initiative to higher level and finally implement projects for the rural community in ASEAN.

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