Young Leaders for Eco Cities – Malang Initiative
Spread over an area of approximately 250 sq kms and having an elevated topography, Malang city in East Java enjoys a rich historical, cultural and academic heritage. But there is an additional rare heritage that this city of close to 1 million residents also enjoys – a green heritage. Unlike most of the other Indonesian cities that are suffering from the serious consequences of chaotic and unplanned urbanization, Malang still retains vast green spaces, gardens, parks and a variety of flora and fauna.
However, these are under growing strain as construction, traffic, garbage and careless lifestyle habits threaten to distort the character of the city. Being the second most important city in the region after Surabaya, Malang is finding development to be a double edged sword. The more it prospers the greater the influx of migrants, haphazard construction boom and adverse impacts on its quiet and natural charm. It is vital that a multi stakeholder approach is urgently adopted to protect and strengthen the green heritage of Malang and address weaknesses that can prevent it from becoming a true Eco City.
To assist in this process IndonesiaWISE has pioneered the Young Leaders for Eco City project. Since 2009 the company has been sharing its expertise with students and youth who have demonstrated commitment, energy, sense of ownership and a willingness to share ideas. Socialization seminars have been conducted, mentoring provided to local conservationists and research compiled including perspectives from officials, academics and citizens. It is hoped that with greater support some of these practical suggestions will be developed into implementation actions.
Through this project IndonesiaWISE is committed to providing long term commitment to preserving a Green Malang. If you want to support this initiative please contact information@indonesiawise.com
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