Yogyakarta, August 16th 2022—The Faculty of Social and Political Science (Fisipol) of Gadjah Mada University held a book review of “G20 in the Midst of the Big Change: Indonesia’s Global Leadership Momentum?” on Tuesday (16/8). This book review was held with two speakers; H.E. Muhsin Syihab, the Expert Staff of Inter-Agency Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia; and Scenaider CH Siahaan, the Chair of G20 Development Working Group in the Deputy for Development Funding at the Ministry of National Development Planning/Bappenas. The moderator for the event was Zita Larasati, a lecturer in the Department of Social Development and Welfare Fisipol UGM. The book review event was opened with an opening speech from UGM press and UGM’s rector Prof. dr. Ova Emilia, M.Med., Ed., Sp.OG (K), Ph.D.
“This book is a compilation of the thoughts of academicians from multiple faculties in UGM which aims to analyze critically and constructively the leadership of Indonesia in G20,” Ova said in his video. He also appreciates the roles of the academicians, editors, and UGM Press in the creation of this book.
Dr. Poppy Sulistyaning Winanti said that this book is aimed to answer two central question; how is the development and role of G20 as the new global governance; as well as Indonesia’s role in the G20 presidency. Following the analysis from Dr.Poppy, the academicians involved in creating the book also explained the topic that they focus on in the book briefly. Dr. Danang Sri Hadmoko, S.SiM.Sc (Geography Faculty UGM) raised the importance of global collaboration in responding to climate change. Meanwhile, dr. Yodi Mahendradhata, M.Sc, Ph.D, FRSPH (Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing UGM) highlighted the issue of disparity in the health sector. Other topics also mentioned are the topic of digital transformation and inclusivity in the workforce.
H.E. Muhsin Syihab responded to the launch of the book by saying that its a milestone in the history of Indonesia’s global leadership. He also said that the writers have skillfully documented the vision of the government in the G20 Presidency. Additionally, for Syihab, this book is not only policy oriented but also action oriented. “There is a big expectation for G20 and Indonesia’s presidency in it. That is why G20 as a topic is still relevant,” Syihab said.
Finally, Scenaider CH Siahaan talked more about the priority issues focused on by Indonesia as well as it’s output.