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UNAIR NEWS – ������ (UNAIR), through its Directorate of Airlangga Global Engagement (AGE), in partnership with Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, hosted the Preliminary Discussion of the D-8 Youth Dialogue under the theme “Navigating Uncertainty, Building Resilience.” The event was held on Wednesday (June 3, 2026) at Majapahit Hall on the fifth floor of the ASEEC Building at UNAIR’s Dharmawangsa-B Campus.

Dr. Yoga Uta Nugraha, S.T., M.T., a lecturer in Electrical Engineering at UNAIR’s Faculty of Advanced Technology and Multidiscipline (FTMM), participated in a panel discussion titled “Energy Resilience in Uncertain Times.” The session examined the challenges surrounding the global energy transition and explored opportunities for greater cooperation among D-8 member states.

Energy transition and transportation challenges

Known professionally as Uta, the academic highlighted Indonesia’s growing transportation demands, noting that the sector remains heavily reliant on fossil fuel-powered vehicles. He said this dependence continues to contribute to worsening air quality across many of the country’s major urban centers.

“Indonesia has significant transportation needs. Reducing emissions from older vehicles that still dominate our roads is essential,” he said.

Uta explained that vehicle conversion represents a critical strategy for lowering emissions. He emphasized that the shift toward electric mobility extends beyond replacing internal combustion engines, requiring broader changes to the energy ecosystem, including battery development and supporting infrastructure. He compared the transition to replacing a vehicle’s primary energy source from fossil fuels with electricity.

He also stressed the value of international cooperation in accelerating clean energy innovation. According to Uta, developing nations such as Indonesia should actively exchange expertise, technological advancements, and best practices through international forums such as the D-8.

Collaboration and role of youth

Uta further called for stronger research initiatives and greater academic collaboration across borders to address global energy challenges. He noted that the diverse conditions and experiences of different countries can help generate a wider range of innovative solutions.

Young people, he added, have a pivotal role in advancing sustainable energy innovation. New ideas often emerge from open-minded thinking and a willingness to test unconventional approaches. “Every innovation has an impact. We need more discussion, research, and collaboration to develop energy solutions that are more efficient and environmentally responsible,” he said.

He also emphasized the need for a gradual and practical adoption of green technologies, including careful assessments of whether specific technologies are suitable for local conditions. “Energy will remain a cornerstone of the D-8’s future. As an archipelagic nation with more than 17,000 islands, Indonesia needs a shared vision for sustainable energy development,” he concluded.

Author: Maia Chaerunnisa

Editor: Yulia Rohmawati