Jakarta. Cross-sector collaboration is essential to accelerate the implementation of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles in Indonesia, and the commitment to a sustainable economy must remain a priority even amid global economic headwinds and severe climate change, B-Universe Media Holdings Executive Chairman Enggartiasto Lukita said on Thursday.

Enggartiasto delivered the remarks at the opening of the ESG Appreciation 2025 ceremony in Jakarta, which carried the theme “Building Sustainability Together.”

He said sustainability cannot be achieved by a single institution alone. Instead, it requires coordinated action from government, business, communities, and the wider public.

“The theme ‘Building Sustainability Together’ is a clear call for collaboration -- across government, the private sector, communities, and society at large,” Enggartiasto said.

He underscored Indonesia’s stance on the global stage, noting that the country chose to continue its sustainability commitment even when the United States withdrew from the Paris Agreement under President Donald Trump. Indonesia, he said, takes its role seriously as a responsible global citizen in protecting the environment.

“President Prabowo Subianto has affirmed that sustainability programs will continue. That is our commitment as members of the global community, and Indonesia has already pledged to be part of it,” he added.

Enggartiasto reiterated that sustainability remains relevant despite economic turbulence, as environmental risks have turned into real-world crises. Extreme climate shifts, unpredictable weather patterns, and environmental degradation now serve as undeniable evidence that a green economy can no longer be postponed.

“In today’s economic climate, is ESG still relevant? Yes, absolutely. We are witnessing firsthand how hostile and unpredictable the climate has become -- a result of mistakes not only by Indonesia but by the entire world,” he said.

At the ESG Appreciation 2025 ceremony, award finalists underwent a rigorous evaluation process led by an independent jury team, based on research and each company’s ESG commitment. Enggartiasto expressed hope that the awards would serve as an industry benchmark for both the private sector and government in integrating ESG into business strategy and national development.

“This appreciation is a form of recognition that we must uphold, and it should become a benchmark for business players as well as the government in strengthening awareness and commitment to ESG,” he said.

Enggartiasto also stressed that ESG is not only a moral responsibility but a strategic investment that enhances long-term business resilience and global competitiveness.

“I am confident that at a certain point, the value of companies that consistently apply ESG principles will increase,” he concluded.