Indonesia Strengthens Water–Energy–Food Security Integration Through WEF Nexus Roadmap and Decision Support System

The Ministry of National Development Planning/Bappenas, in collaboration with UNDP Indonesia and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), held a public consultation on the Water–Energy–Food (WEF) Nexus Roadmap and Decision Support System (DSS) in Jakarta on Tuesday (7/10). 

The event marked an important milestone in Indonesia’s journey from “nexus thinking” to “nexus doing,” reflecting the government’s commitment to integrated, data-driven sustainable development solutions.

As one of the game changers in the 2025-2045 National Long-Term Development Plan (RPJPN) and a key element of the 2025-2029 National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN), the WEF Nexus initiative plays a central role in advancing sustainable human development. By promoting integrated management of water, energy, and food resources, this initiative supports Indonesia’s vision of inclusive growth, ensuring responsible resource use, ecosystem protection, and equitable progress for all.

“The WEF Nexus framework is fundamental to Indonesia’s sustainable development transformation,” said Leonardo A.A. Teguh Sambodo, Deputy for Food, Natural Resources, and the Environment at Bappenas. 

“Through the development of this comprehensive roadmap and digital decision-support system, we’re building an integrated governance mechanism that optimizes resource allocation, enhances policy coherence, and ensures data-informed decision-making in the water, energy, and food sectors. This marks our shift from conceptual thinking to tangible, sustainable implementation,” he added.

The consultation highlighted two key innovations: the WEF Nexus Roadmap, a strategic guide exploring the balance and synergy between water, energy, and food systems; and the Decision Support System (DSS), a digital platform enabling integrated, data-based planning. 

The event brought together representatives from government, the private sector, civil society, academia, and development partners to exchange insights and technical recommendations, ensuring the roadmap and system reflect diverse and inclusive perspectives for resilient and sustainable resource management.

“The UK is proud to support Indonesia’s efforts in advancing the WEF Nexus through our flagship programme, Climate Action for a Resilient Asia (CARA),” said Matt Downing, Chargé d’affaires of the British Embassy in Indonesia. 

“This collaboration shows how strategic international partnerships can drive sustainable development goals. The Decision Support System developed through this initiative will not only benefit Indonesia but can also serve as a model for other countries managing interconnected resource challenges. Climate and Nature are key pillars of the Indonesia–UK Strategic Partnership, and we’re committed to building a more resilient and livable planet for all,” he added.

Throughout a series of workshops and discussions, stakeholders actively identified challenges and opportunities to improve the management of water, energy, and food resources. The outcomes of these consultations will guide the setting of clear targets, concrete action plans, and monitoring tools to track progress and shape policies, creating a replicable model for sustainable and inclusive development across Indonesia.

“UNDP is committed to supporting Indonesia’s innovative approach to addressing the complex interlinkages of water, energy, and food security,” said Sara Ferrer Olivella, UNDP Indonesia Resident Representative. 

“The WEF Nexus Roadmap and Decision Support System are vital steps toward sustainable human development. This initiative helps Indonesia build a future where people and nature can thrive together, reflecting our shared commitment to inclusive, integrated solutions that ensure no one is left behind.”