Ridwan Arif
Illuminating Pathways for Rural Empowerment
Dedicated to catalyzing transformative change in rural development, Ridwan Arif’s journey is defined by a resolute commitment to uplift Indonesia’s 4T regions through accessible renewable energy solutions. The seeds of passion were sown during his involvement with Patriot Energi, a visionary program initiated by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources in 2016. This experience unveiled the stark reality of electricity scarcity in rural Indonesian enclaves, igniting Ridwan’s determination to alleviate energy poverty.
In the subsequent year, Ridwan’s path led him to Berau Regency, where his participatory mapping endeavors alongside the Buyung-buyung Village community shed light on their lived realities. Over nearly two years, he immersed himself in Indonesia’s rural heartlands, reinforcing his resolve to engineer renewable energy solutions that empower these communities. With a deep understanding of the pivotal role electricity access plays, Ridwan aspires to amplify productivity, elevate economic prospects, and unearth latent potentials that remain untapped.
As Research and Knowledge Management Manager at Coaction Indonesia, Ridwan Arif’s sphere of influence expands further. Spearheading initiatives encompassing rural and urban renewable energy, he reinvigorates micro hydropower plants in Air Tenam Village and champions the Birukan Atap, Birukan Langit project by MRT Jakarta. His canvas extends to climate justice pursuits for coastal communities in Kupang, underscored by active participation in digital campaigns that beckon youth to seize #LangkahHariIni.
The pulse of his role reverberates through transformative products, including the impactful Climate Witness film, the terbarukan.id platform, and vca.coaction.id. Beyond his professional tapestry, Ridwan uncovers solace in coffee–a conduit for contemplation and connection. For him, every brew echoes the essence of his journey, fostering dialogue and forging bonds–whether within office walls or community visits.