Prabowo Orders BRIN to Develop Desalination Technology: What Is It For?

President Prabowo Subianto has directed the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) to develop domestic desalination technology, according to a report by TEMPO.CO. The Indonesian leader issued the directive during a disaster response coordination meeting in Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) on August 26. Minister of Public Works Dody Hanggodo reported a shortage of clean water on Palue Island in neighboring Sikka Regency, which was affected by a recent earthquake in NTT.

Prabowo emphasized the importance of water access, particularly for disaster-affected communities. He proposed that BRIN collaborate with the Defense University, military, and engineering faculties to create locally developed desalination technology. This technology could be immediately deployed to areas in urgent need of clean water.

The President highlighted that advancements in science and technology have made desalination more feasible, even for coastal areas facing limited access to clean water. He compared the current cost of desalination technology to three decades ago when it was largely inaccessible to poorer countries. Prabowo stated that desalination systems could now be built at the village level, making it a viable solution for areas like Palue Island.

In addition to short-term disaster recovery efforts, Prabowo stressed the importance of medium- and long-term strategies, including reforestation and water solutions. He also touched on the potential development of solar power plants and fisheries in NTT as part of long-term regional development initiatives. Prabowo expressed optimism that NTT could eventually contribute to Indonesia's food supply and food exports.