SBM ITB has honored the 6th President of Indonesia, General (Ret.) Prof. Dr. H. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, M.A., GCB., AC., with the Lifetime Achievement Award Anugerah Avirama Nawasena (AAN). The award was presented as part of SBM ITB’s 21st Anniversary celebration, held at Amartha Village, South Jakarta, on Wednesday (5/2).
The award was personally presented by the ITB Rector, Prof. Dr. Ir. Tatacipta Dirgantara, M.T. In his opening remarks, he emphasized that SBM ITB’s 21st anniversary marks a phase of increasing public recognition.
“We recognize distinguished figures from ITB, such as Prof. Roosseno, known as ‘Mr. Beton Indonesia,’ and B.J. Habibie, who have made significant contributions to the nation. ITB has produced many great figures and alumni, and we hope that SBM ITB graduates will also become Indonesian legends in the future,” he said.
The Avirama Nawasena Award is an annual recognition presented by SBM ITB to individuals, companies, MSMEs, and non-profit organizations that drive innovation and contribute to Indonesia’s transition towards a sustainable economy. The award is founded on three key sustainability principles: promoting low-carbon economic growth, enhancing natural resource efficiency, and fostering social inclusion.
In his acceptance speech, SBY expressed deep appreciation for the award and underscored the urgent need for collective action to address the global climate crisis.
“Humanity is facing immense challenges. What lies ahead is not merely climate change—it has escalated into a climate crisis,” he said.
He stressed that the only viable path forward is to achieve net-zero emissions, expressing hope that Indonesia can become a net-zero nation.
SBY also emphasized the critical role of innovation, technology, research, and science in tackling global challenges. He urged ITB, as a center of academic excellence, to continue producing leaders and innovators capable of developing sustainable solutions. Additionally, he highlighted the necessity of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability.
“Economic growth must not come at the cost of environmental degradation or increased inequality. Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is a call to enhance quality of life, improve welfare, ensure a safer planet, and foster stronger international collaboration,” he concluded.
ITB Rector Prof. Tatacipta said that SBM ITB continues to impact society positively. He highlighted ITB’s ongoing transformation into a fourth-generation university, embracing the entrepreneurial university model focusing on social impact.
Higher education should prioritize academic excellence and contribute positively to society and the environment. ITB will continue to develop multidisciplinary approaches to address critical issues, such as waste management, by integrating technological solutions with circular economy principles.
Through this award, SBM ITB reaffirms its commitment to fostering innovation in the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) field and recognizing the contributions of leaders and organizations dedicated to creating a lasting positive impact on society and the environment.
