As part of his visit to attend London Climate Action Week 2026, the Governor of Bali, Wayan Koster, made a series of strategic visits to prestigious institutions in the United Kingdom, namely the University of Oxford and Google Headquarters in London. This visit aimed to build a broader international network in the fields of education, research, and technological innovation for Bali's future development.
During his visit to the University of Oxford, Koster engaged in warm communications with the Indonesian diaspora, including academics and students from Bali pursuing advanced studies. Koster emphasized that the role of the diaspora is crucial as a strategic bridge in the transfer of knowledge and technology, while also representing and promoting Bali on the world stage.
During the meeting, Oxford academics highly praised the Bali Provincial Government's commitment to implementing sustainable development policies. Bali's efforts in the clean energy sector, organic farming systems, and restrictions on single-use plastics were considered in line with the global agenda to reduce carbon emissions toward net zero emission targets.
Beyond the education sector, Koster also visited Google Headquarters to explore digital technology developments. Accompanied by the Indonesian Ambassador to the UK, Desra Percaya, Koster held discussions with Adhiguna Kuncoro, an Indonesian Artificial Intelligence (AI) scientist, regarding the use of technology to strengthen the tourism, culture, and digital economy ecosystems in Bali.
In-depth discussions on the application of AI are projected to serve as an initial step for the Bali Provincial Government in boosting regional competitiveness amid rapid global technology dynamics, ensuring Bali remains relevant and progressive in the future.
