Mataram, University of Mataram — The University of Mataram (Unram) once again affirmed its role as a hub for sustainable development collaboration by establishing strategic partnerships with key stakeholders. Held at the Rector Conference Room on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, this commitment was marked by the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Unram and PT. Bandara Internasional Bali Utara (PT. BIBU), the Indonesian Architects Association (IAI) Central Board, as well as a memorandum of agreement between the Faculty of Engineering Unram and IAI NTB.

In his remarks, Unram Rector Prof. Dr. Sukardi, M.Pd. emphasized that this collaboration is not merely about physical development, but also about strengthening human resources and empowering local communities.

Unram Rector Prof. Dr. Sukardi, M.Pd. expressed pride in positioning the university as a center for dialogue on sustainable development. “We are proud to serve as a hub for discussions on sustainability. Our hope is that PT. BIBU will become an epicenter of new growth that drives the NTB economy. Development must be sustainable, strengthening the UMKM and the creative economy so that communities are not marginalized. We are ready to accompany and collaborate to accelerate community welfare,” he stated.

On this occasion, the Rector also reaffirmed the role of higher education as a catalyst for sustainable development. “A university is not only a center of education, but also a strategic partner in shaping the future of the region. Through this collaboration, we want to ensure that every development initiative brings tangible benefits to society, strengthens local competitiveness, and nurtures a young generation ready to contribute at both national and global levels,” he added.

Director of PT. BIBU, Erwanto Sad Adiatmoko, expressed his pride in returning to the campus where he once studied. “Unram is the first university outside Bali that we have partnered with. As we build North Bali Airport, we are also preparing supporting facilities with a green energy concept. Through this collaboration, we aim to optimize the capabilities of our nation’s youth, involve local communities including friends with special needs and together create a better future,” he stated.

At the same occasion, Chairman of IAI Central Board, Ar. Georgius Budi Yulianto, IAI, AA., highlighted the significant demand for architects in Indonesia. “Of all architecture graduates, only 10 percent become practicing architects. Major projects like this will require many professionals. We appreciate Unram for encouraging the establishment of the Architectural Professional Education Program (PPAI) in Eastern Indonesia, and we are ready to collaborate to meet the demand for architects over the next 10–15 years,” he explained.

This partnership underscores Unram’s commitment to fostering development that goes beyond sustainable infrastructure, focusing equally on strengthening local resources and empowering communities.

By engaging the UMKM, the creative economy, and the potential of the younger generation, Unram together with its strategic partners PT. BIBU and IAI strives to ensure that the benefits of development are tangibly felt by surrounding communities. This synergy is expected to serve as a catalyst for creating inclusive spaces of growth, oriented toward welfare, and delivering direct impact in improving community prosperity.