How to Strengthen the Human Capital and Public Sector Capacities in the VUCA Era
HR Gathering November 2024: Group photo from talk show 1
South Tangerang – On Thursday 28 November 2024, Monash University, Indonesia hosted HR Gathering 2024, convened approximately 70 professionals from diverse industries to address one of the most pressing challenges of our time: transformation in a VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) world. Under the theme "Leading Transformation in the VUCA Era: Strengthening Human Capital and Public Sector Capacities for Reform, "the event offered rich discussions, knowledge sharing, and networking opportunities among HR leaders, policymakers, and academics.
Inspiring Opening and Keynote Addresses
Dr. Ivan Butar delivering his welcoming speech
The event commenced with a welcoming speech by Dr. Ivan Butar, Vice President of Education at Monash University, Indonesia. Dr. Butar set the tone for the day by emphasizing the pivotal role of human capital development and digital readiness in navigating uncertainty
Dr. Butar explained, "In an era characterized by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity—often referred to as the VUCA era—our ability to navigate and adapt is critical. Today, we focus on how public sector leaders and HR professionals can strengthen human capital and policy capacities to effectively transform their organizations and drive sustainable growth."
"To all participants, we encourage you to take full advantage of today’s sessions, engage in discussions, and connect with fellow professionals to build networks that extend beyond this gathering. Together, we can address the challenges and seize the opportunities presented in this transformative era," added him.
Dr. Altaf Virani delivering his keynote in the HR Gathering event
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Altaf Virani, Associate Professor and Course Coordinator of the Master of Public Policy and Management. Dr. Virani highlighted the interplay between agile leadership, technological advancements, and policy frameworks essential for public sector reform in a rapidly evolving world.
Dr. Virani expressed his opinion regarding the event, "We were thrilled to host another round of the HR Gathering, which brought together incredible thought leaders, practitioners, and decision-makers from the private sector, government, and civil society. It was an excellent forum to discuss some of the most pressing issues shaping Indonesia’s public sector today and explore how leaders can drive transformation in the face of Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity (VUCA)."
Dynamic Talk Shows Exploring Key Challenges and Opportunities
Participants engaged in two parallel Talk Show sessions that delved deep into transformation and workforce readiness:
1. AI and Digital Disruption: Addressing Policy and Ethical Challenges, and Building a Digital-Ready Workforce
Talk Show 1: Herman Widjaja (left), Dr. Vanya Valindria (middle), and Iman Setiadi (right)
This session explored the challenges and opportunities presented by AI and digital transformation. Iman Setiadi, VP of People Strategy at Tiket.com, and Herman Widjaja, Chief Technology Officer at Tokopedia, shared insights on developing ethical frameworks and equipping the workforce to thrive in a digital-first economy. Moderated by Dr. Vanya Valindria, Assistant Professor for the Master of Data Science program, the discussion underscored the importance of fostering adaptability and resilience.
2. Navigating Energy Transitions for Sustainable Futures: Policy and Workforce Readiness
Talk Show 2: Dr. Denis Can Teoman (left), M. Reza Abdulmajid (middle), and Riziki Yayu Feberina (right)
In a separate session, speakers tackled the dual imperatives of energy transition and workforce sustainability. Riziki Yayu Feberina, VP of Human Resources & General Affairs at PT PLN Enjiniring, and M. Reza Abdulmajid, Chief Risk & Sustainability Officer at Sinar Mas Land, provided compelling insights on aligning organizational strategies with sustainability goals. This session was moderated by Dr. Denis Can Teoman, Adjunct Assistant Professor in Urban Design, Monash University, Indonesia.
This second HR Gathering event in 2024, has once again garnered positive feedback from its attendees. This event successfully brought together academics, practitioners, and professionals from various sectors, fostering an environment of learning and networking. Timothy Mangasi Tua Siregar from Bank Mandiri, shared his experience: "Attending the HR gathering by Monash University, Indonesia was a really great experience. Why? Because we didn't just receive insights from academics, but we also gained perspectives from practical practitioners. In addition, there's networking happening as we met and talked and exchanged insights with many HR professionals and practitioners from the public sector. So once again, thank you, Monash University, Indonesia for making this happen and looking forward to attending more of your events."
Another participant, Desti Alicya, B2B Marketing Specialist at ELSA Speak, added her thoughts: "I attended the second talk show, featuring Ms. Kiki from PLN and Mr. Reza from Sinar Mas Land as speakers. Coming from a political science background, I wasn't well-versed in energy transformations and related topics. However, the session proved to be an eye-opening experience for me. It provided valuable insights into the current energy landscape and the sustainable future envisioned by the speakers.I really enjoyed the event. Thank you so much for having me."
A Step Towards Collaborative Transformation
HR Gathering November 2024: Group photo from talk show 2
The HR Gathering 2024 demonstrated Monash University, Indonesia’s commitment to fostering thought leadership and actionable strategies in human capital and public sector reform. As organizations face unprecedented challenges, events like these continue to bridge academia and industry, driving innovation and sustainable development.
The event concluded with a collective commitment to advancing these discussions, ensuring the transformation necessary to navigate the complexities of the VUCA era.