BRIN: Bali's Subak a global example of low-emission agricultural management

The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has stated that the subak system in Bali serves as a global example of resource management capable of maintaining a balance between low-emission agricultural productivity, environmental sustainability, and cultural values passed down through generations. Speaking at a knowledge exchange event on advanced technologies for low-emission rice and livestock systems in Denpasar on Wednesday, Head of BRIN’s Agricultural and Food Research Organisation Puji Lestari emphasised that the subak system, a cultural heritage of Balinese society for over a thousand years, can inspire the world in developing low-emission and sustainable agriculture. According to Puji, subak is not merely an agricultural irrigation management system, but also reflects the Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana, which embodies harmony between humans, nature, and God. “I cannot imagine a better place to build discussions about the future of food systems than in a place where these values are still alive and practised today,” she said. She noted that while the agricultural sector plays a crucial role in global food security, it is also one of the largest contributors to methane emissions. Therefore, an approach that integrates productivity and sustainability simultaneously is required. Participants from various Asian and African countries were also invited to observe first-hand the subak-based agricultural management practices in Bali as part of shared learning on climate-adaptive farming systems. “We must leave Bali with a real commitment to act now in creating more resilient and sustainable agricultural systems,” she concluded.