Public Relations of UPNVJ - Marsya Handini, a student of the International Relations Study Program, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, National Development University (UPN) “Veteran” Jakarta, was selected as an Indonesian delegate at the Green Innovator Academy (GIA) 2025 in Manila, Philippines, on October 13-14, 2025. This activity, organized by the ASEAN Youth Organization (AYO), focuses on leadership development and sustainable innovation.
Marsya was one of 140 delegates from various countries who participated in the intensive program. Her success was due to her active participation in AYO's Independent Impact Campus Internship Program, which provides opportunities for Southeast Asian students to participate in international projects.
Field Visit and Policy Discussion
On the first day, Marsya and the rest of the delegation visited local communities in Barangay Potrero Malabon and Barangay Dampalit, Manila. They learned about the challenges of waste and flood management, as well as solution-oriented initiatives such as Zero Waste Carinderia, a community-led circular economy model.
The second day focused on policy discussions at Mabuhay Tea House. Marsya participated in a panel session titled "Youth in Waste Management and the Circular Economy" with speakers from the Philippines Reuse Consortium, the Children and Youth Major Group to UNEP, and Break Free From Plastic.
The delegation formulated recommendations, such as improving composting infrastructure, incentives for refill systems at kiosks, and strengthening enforcement of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act (RA 9003) through community-based monitoring.
The Role of Indonesian Youth on the Global Stage.
Senjaya Mulia, AYO's founder, stated that Marsya represents the contribution of Indonesian students on the international stage. "We regularly send top delegates to play an active role. Marsya is a clear example of how students can make a global impact," he said.
Marsya expressed pride in this opportunity. "As a student at UPN Veteran Jakarta, I am grateful to be selected and contribute to this international project," she said when met on Friday (October 17, 2025).
He highlighted the roundtable discussion session as a dynamic moment to develop community-based solutions with global delegates.
*Commitment to Sustainability*
GIA 2025 emphasizes sustainable practices, such as the use of refillable water bottles and support for local businesses, reflecting the principles of the Philippines' environmental policy. This activity strengthens the role of youth in addressing environmental challenges in ASEAN.