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Hitachi Young Leaders Initiative 2024: Empowering Future Leaders for a Sustainable Tomorrow (PDF Type, 121kByte)

July 30, 2024

Hitachi Young Leaders Initiative 2024: Empowering Future Leaders for a Sustainable Tomorrow

Bali, Indonesia – July 30, 2024 Centred on the theme, “Greening Together: Inclusion & Sustainability”, the Hitachi Young Leaders Initiative (HYLI) 2024 has successfully concluded through a series of robust discussions between distinguished speakers and youth leaders in the region. This youth leadership program brought together 32 outstanding youth leaders from Japan and Southeast Asian countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. The young delegates discussed regional and global challenges on achieving the 2030 sustainable development goals adopted by the United Nations.

Known for its sustainability initiatives, eco-friendly projects, diverse and rich cultural heritage, the 17^th edition of HYLI was held in Bali. Bali is also home to Nusa Penida’s microgrid, deployed by Hitachi Energy in consortium with PT Surya Energi Indotama as a green energy showcase during the G20 Summit in Bali in 2022. Operated by PT Indonesia Power, the microgrid in Nusa Penida has been providing cleaner energy to more than 10,000 homes, supporting Indonesia’s energy transition. This initiative demonstrates efforts to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and accelerate the shift to renewable energy.

This year, the four-day program highlighted critical aspects of sustainable development through four invigorating plenary sessions: Good Health & Wellbeing, Affordable Clean Energy, Reduced Inequalities, and Sustainable Cities & Communities. HYLI is the cornerstone of Hitachi’s unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders who will decisively shape Asia’s future leaders.

Chairman of Hitachi Asia Ltd., Mr. Kojin Nakakita said: “True to Hitachi’s credo, inspiring and nurturing the next generation of leaders is one of the many ways that Hitachi is contributing back to society. It is encouraging to witness these young delegates at HYLI deliberating innovative ideas in hopes of creating a more sustainable world. I believe that from here on, HYLI will open more opportunities for these aspiring social innovators to shape a more diverse and inclusive future.”

Signifying the diverse cultures of the delegates, four Tabebuia Trees were planted at the microgrid site where the delegates got a firsthand look at its operations to bring clean energy to the island, to fulfil Indonesia’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2060.

Selecting the Tabebuia to adorn the microgrid in Nusa Penida symbolizes beauty, renewal, and resilience, reflecting the world’s journey towards a better, more sustainable future. The tree’s ability to produce stunning blooms even in arid conditions stands as a testament to hope and perseverance.

“The four-day experience was truly exceptional. Not only did I have the opportunity to meet new friends from other countries, but it also significantly expanded my horizons. Every panel session, workshop, and group discussion, along with the visit to the microgrid in Nusa Penida, highlighted how technology can effectively supply clean energy for a sustainable and greener future. Additionally, the mentorship session provided invaluable insights on applying critical thinking to solve challenges in achieving sustainable development goals,” said Mr. Seyya Viriya from Indonesia, Udayana University in Bali.

An Indonesian alumnus from the 3^rd HYLI in 1999, Dr. Agung Wicaksono, who currently serves as the Deputy of Funding and Investment for Nusantara, Indonesia’s new capital city, spoke to the students on the importance of sustainability and leadership as pivotal concepts for the young generation to excel in their skillsets.

“To build a future that thrives, we must instil the values of sustainability and leadership in our youth. These principles are essential for developing the skills necessary to navigate and excel in an ever-evolving world.” added Dr. Agung Wicaksono.

Since its inception in 1996, HYLI has provided over 400 students with the unparalleled opportunity to broaden their perspectives and champion Asian values and cross-cultural understanding. The program, held biennially, serves as an exceptional platform for talented university students to actively discuss on key global issues with distinguished speakers in government, business, and academia.

Hitachi Asia Ltd., (Hitachi Asia) a subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd., is headquartered in Singapore. With offices across seven ASEAN countries Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam – Hitachi Asia and Hitachi’s subsidiary companies offer IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products to support customers in their transformation journeys. We will contribute to the growth in the ASEAN region by co-creating with customers to identify the social challenges and needs and deliver the solutions. For more information on Hitachi Asia, please visit the company’s website at https://www.hitachi.asia/.