Monash University, Indonesia Strengthens Climate Action with New Master of Sustainability Unveiled at 2025 Sustainability Forum
From left to right: Professor Alex Lechner, Professor Matthew Nicholson, Ibu Eniya Listiyani Dewi, and Associate Professor Annette Bos
South Tangerang – Indonesia faces a major challenge in bridging the sustainability sector talent gap, particularly in energy, construction, agriculture, and finance. With a national goal of reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2060, the country urgently needs a skilled and knowledgeable workforce. Yet, the current supply of green talent in Indonesia is struggling to meet surging demand.
According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Indonesia’s renewable energy sector could generate 400,000 new jobs by 2030. However, LinkedIn data shows that between 2023 and 2024, green talent demand grew by 11.6%, while supply only rose by 5.6%. This growing mismatch requires immediate and strategic action.
The shift towards sustainability, driven by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), global climate targets, and net-zero commitments, demands strong collaboration between government, industry, and education providers. Left unaddressed, this challenge may hinder Indonesia’s ability to implement climate action and sustainable development policies effectively.
Ibu Eniya Listiyani Dewi delivering her speech at the Sustainability Forum
In response, Director General of New Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation, Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), Eniya Listiyani Dewi, underscored that renewable energy is at the core of the country’s energy transition. He also highlighted the gap between vocational education and industry needs, particularly in technical fields.
"Energy transition is not merely about changing energy sources, it is opening up inclusive and sustainable job pathways for our youth. Strategic efforts in upskilling and expanding vocational education are crucial to empower the next generation to lead the way to a more sustainable future," said Eniya Listiyani Dewi.
Her remarks were delivered at the opening of the 2025 Sustainability Forum hosted at the Monash University, Indonesia campus, which convened more than 300 cross-sector leaders to explore urgent issues such as climate change mitigation, sustainable finance, green job creation, and policy innovation. Notable speakers included Director General of New and Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation (EBTKE), Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Eniya Listiani Dewi; World Bank Senior Economist, David Kaczan; and Monash Sustainable Development Institute Deputy Director, Dr Annette Bos.
Monash University, Indonesia in collaboration with Think Policy provided full support for the forum by launching its Master of Sustainability program, a key part of its strategic commitment to sustainability. Starting in the 2025/2026 academic year, the program aims to produce professionals with both strong technical skills and a solid grasp of sustainability policy and business. The initiative reflects Monash’s firm commitment to shaping the next generation of Indonesia’s green workforce.
Professor Matthew Nicholson delivering his opening remarks at the Sustainability Forum
Professor Matthew Nicholson, Pro-Vice Chancellor & President of Monash University, Indonesia, stated, "Indonesia is on the frontline of the global sustainability transition, but its success depends on our ability to develop a skilled workforce that can drive change. Through cross-sector collaboration and high-quality education, like our Master of Sustainability, we are preparing a new generation of leaders to help deliver Indonesia’s net-zero 2060 vision."
Panel Discsussion at the Sustainability Forum
The panel discussion was led by moderator Andhyta F. Utami, CEO & Co-Founder Think Policy. This event was held in collaboration with Think Policy. Astri Wahyuni, Director of Public Affairs and Sustainability at Danone Indonesia, added, "Danone Indonesia’s commitment to achieve Net Zero Carbon is not limited to investing in technology, but also in capacity building for the human resources. That’s why we believe that innovation comes from human resources with competency and commitment towards the environment and cross-sectors."
Master of Sustainability: Developing Talent for Indonesia’s Green Economy Transformation
The Master of Sustainability at Monash University, Indonesia is tailored for professionals from diverse backgrounds who want to deepen their sustainability expertise and gain practical skills to deliver real-world solutions. The program is aligned with industry needs, ensuring graduates are equipped to lead the green economy and respond to national challenges.
Students will engage with sustainability issues through an interdisciplinary curriculum covering topics such as climate change mitigation, energy transition, sustainable cities, and the circular economy. They will also gain hands-on experience through industry placements and collaborative projects with businesses, government, and NGOs.
Monash University, Indonesia’s commitment goes beyond offering a degree—it is building a pipeline of talent capable of leading Indonesia’s transition to a sustainable economy. The program supports the nation’s Net Zero 2060 target and the Paris Agreement, ensuring graduates are prepared to make a meaningful contribution at both national and global levels.
For more information on the Master of Sustainability program and the 2026 application process, visit Our Admission page.
About Monash University, Indonesia
Officially operating in October 2021, Monash University, Indonesia, is a manifestation of the commitment of Monash University and the Indonesian government to create knowledge that can contribute broadly to the development of Indonesia's social, technological, and economic sectors.
Monash University, Indonesia, offers Master's degree programs majoring in Business Innovation, Global Business, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Marketing and Digital communications, Public Health, Public Policy and Management, Urban Design, Sustainability, and PhD, along with various executive and micro-credential programs aimed at specific sectors.
Monash University, Indonesia, has learning facilities according to Monash University Australia standards and is currently opening applications for new student admissions and scholarships for study in July 2025 and January 2026 intakes, which are now open for registration. Visit our intake periods to learn more.
Monash also has a proud long-term relationship with Indonesia and is a foreign university with the most significant number of Indonesian graduates compared to other foreign universities. Monash's track record of good relations with Indonesia is manifested in collaboration between parties such as the Herb Feith Center, RISE, World Mosquito Program, and Citarum Action Research Program (CARP).
With a presence on three continents, international partnerships, and study abroad programs worldwide, Monash is Australia's largest university, ranking in the top 100 universities worldwide. Monash has a dynamic network of research and teaching locations in Australia, Italy, Malaysia, China, and India.
The unique alliance with the University of Warwick (UK) sits alongside international collaborations with leading universities and companies worldwide, expanding the University's global network.
For more information, visit our Monash University, Indonesia website. Information regarding academic profiles, visit our academic staff page. Impact 2030, Monash University's strategic plan for the next ten years, can be accessed here.
MEDIA ENQUIRIES
Suryo Danuwinoto
Senior Marketing and Communications Manager, Monash University, Indonesia
E: danu.danuwinoto@monash.edu
Ade Ristya
Senior Media Relations, Burson Indonesia
T: +6282112304314
E: ade.ristya@hillandknowlton.com