Let’s work together. Give opportunity to those having comparative advantages, to work together with those having competitive advantages.

Indonesia has a population of over 270 million, the world’s 16th largest economy, and an abundance of natural resources - including coal, of which it had record high production this past year.

Indonesia is blessed in many ways, but it’s got an enormous progression ahead of it. How is Indonesia going to manage the transition?

While Indonesia currently uses coal for 35 GW of its domestic energy supply, Minister Ichwan says its goal is to replace portions of this with gas and renewables. The country has 68 potential gas basins that have not yet been exploited - with an estimated 1,715 MMcf/d and value of $20–26 billion USD. Its equatorial location is also ideal for wind and photovoltaic development. But the country doesn’t have the technologies or capital to move forward on its own with any of these opportunities.

By 2030, Indonesia aims to cut emissions by 31.9% on its own or by 43.2% with international support. What would that international support look like?

Minister Ichwan said there needs to be a new kind of cooperation across global supply chains. Although some countries, companies, and organizations may try to carve out independent niches, there is only one planet and therefore just one way to succeed. He said there must be a new model with equitable sharing of effort and prosperity. Countries with advanced technologies, capital, and human resources must contribute to those without. Countries like Indonesia may not have the  technology and capital, but can contribute the natural resources to help benefit all.

Currently, he says, international players prefer to buy raw materials and do the processing on their end—so, the added value goes to economies that are already prosperous. He believes this must change if we are to win the one-planet game. There needs to be more sharing of technology and more value-add inside emerging economies. He believes greater opportunity for participation will create greater commitment and results.

Do you believe the COP process is providing the support needed for technology, capital investment, and human resources?

Minister Ichwan said he still believes in the model, but that it is currently impeded by inconsistency—as many developed countries get distracted by other domestic or global issues and don’t follow through on their climate promises. This is not only inconsistent relative to their own commitments, but it hinders Indonesia’s ability to make meaningful strides on its transition journey.

Where is global leadership coming from at the moment, and where should it come from?

Minister Ichwan said markets are driving in the right direction, with a willingness to spend more if the product is protective of the environment—even in developing countries like Indonesia where 87% of consumers express that feeling. With young people as the driving force, Ichwan says global governments, financial sectors, and other institutions should follow suit and create policies to support positive movement.