Indonesia to Host World Science Forum 2026
Indonesia has been officially designated as the host for the 12th World Science Forum (WSF), set to take place in 2026. The announcement was made by Nur Tri Aries Suestiningtyas, Secretary General of the Agency for the Assessment and Application of Technology (AAAT) and the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), during the closing ceremony of the 11th WSF held at the Hungarian Parliament Building in Budapest from November 20-23, 2024.
Suestiningtyas acknowledged the challenges associated with hosting such a prestigious event, stating, "It is very challenging because we know that this is a highly reputable and prestigious event for the scientific community and various parties." The WSF serves as a vital platform that connects scientists, policymakers, media, industry leaders, and the global community to discuss the pivotal role of science in addressing pressing global challenges.
The upcoming forum will emphasize the theme 'Science for Resilience and Equality'. Indonesia aims to leverage its rich biodiversity and energy resources to contribute to scientific development while promoting environmental sustainability. Suestiningtyas highlighted the importance of learning from the scientific advancements of other nations, stating, "We will focus more on how the wealth of our biodiversity and energy can contribute to the development of science, and pay attention to the differences in various parts of the world and provide solutions."
In a bilateral meeting with the President of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences (MTA), Indonesia reaffirmed its commitment to addressing critical global issues through the WSF, including transformation, equality, and policy efficiency in the field of science.
Indonesia's selection as the host country followed a rigorous evaluation process, where it competed against candidates from the Turkish Academy of Sciences and Vietnam. This achievement underscores Indonesia's growing role in the global scientific community and its commitment to fostering international collaboration in science and technology.
As preparations for the 12th WSF begin, Indonesia looks forward to welcoming participants from around the world to engage in meaningful discussions that will shape the future of science and its impact on society.