Assisting Indonesia’s Net-Zero Energy Ambition: Collaboration Between Monash University, Indonesia and PT Brantas Abipraya on IKN Projects
Discussion session between the Monash University, Indonesia team and PT Brantas Abipraya
Nusantara, East Borneo – On January 4, 2025, Monash University, Indonesia and PT Brantas Abipraya convened to discuss the ongoing development of Indonesia’s new capital, Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN). This collaboration focuses on advancing the net-zero energy aspect of the IKN project. Following an insightful discussion, the initiative included an on-site visit to IKN, aimed at providing academic insights and fostering collaboration to enhance the project's success.
PT Brantas Abipraya, a state-owned enterprise established in 1980, is a prominent player in Indonesia’s construction industry. Known for its expertise in infrastructure development and consultancy services, the company plays a crucial role in the IKN, with key projects including Sumbu Kebangsaan, IKN Toll Roads, IKN Water Infrastructure, and Residential Facilities for Civil Servants.

Construction of the Reservoir at Central Government Core Area (KIPP) in the National Capital City (IKN) led by PT Brantas Abipraya
Monash University, Indonesia, through Eka Permanasari, Ph.D., Associate Professor in Urban Design, has significantly contributed to IKN’s development. Her research on Net Zero Energy (NZE), with IKN as a case study, has shaped urban design guidelines emphasizing sustainability and resilience. Additionally, her insights into ecological challenges, political dynamics, and investment opportunities have enriched the discourse on IKN’s development, offering practical strategies to address its unique complexities.
This activity showcases the prolonged collaboration between Monash University, Indonesia and PT Brantas Abipraya. Combining Monash’s cutting-edge research on urban design and net-zero strategies with Brantas Abipraya’s industry expertise, this partnership highlights their shared commitment to advancing sustainable development. The event brought together key figures from both organizations, highlighting the synergy of their expertise.
From PT Brantas Abipraya, Fajar Steven, the Site Operational Manager, shared operational insights into the complexities of IKN’s construction projects. Kresna Wijaya Muladi Putra and Haris Sunansyah, both team members at PT Brantas Abipraya and Master of Urban Design students at Monash University, Indonesia, contributed valuable perspectives on their academic research into real-world practices. The event provides valuable insights into the unique construction challenges of the National Capital City (IKN) project, especially in the context of its ambitious Net Zero target.
Site visit activity at the on-going construction of Sumbu Kebangsaan, IKN
As part of this collaboration, Dr. Permanasari discusses strategies that will help PT Brantas Abipraya align their construction methods with IKN's Net Zero commitment. The partnership enables PT Brantas Abipraya to incorporate energy-efficient design, renewable energy solutions, and advanced building technologies, all key components for meeting the Net Zero target set for IKN.
This collaboration underscores the shared vision between PT Brantas Abipraya and Monash University, Indonesia to drive the successful implementation of IKN’s Net Zero target. By integrating advanced sustainability strategies from the outset, the project aims to set a benchmark for future urban developments in Indonesia and beyond, ensuring that IKN becomes a symbol of sustainable and resilient infrastructure.