Expert Explains Benefits of Science-Based Infrastructure in North Java Coast

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Research Professor at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) specialising in Adaptive Technology for Coastal and Port Areas, Aprijanto, is promoting the implementation of science-based infrastructure to tackle tidal flooding, abrasion, and land subsidence along Java’s North Coast (Pantura). In a statement in Jakarta on Wednesday, Aprijanto highlighted that adaptive technology innovations form the new foundation for coastal resilience through the integration of hybrid infrastructure, artificial intelligence, integrated observation systems, and renewable ocean energy, making adaptation anticipatory, adaptive, and sustainable. “One foundation of coastal resilience is hybrid infrastructure that combines adaptive engineering such as smart dykes, modern moulders, permeable structures with nature-based solutions like mangrove rehabilitation and ecosystem restoration. This approach gradually dampens waves and tidal flooding, stabilises the coastline, and reduces pressure on hard infrastructure,” he said. Aprijanto noted that tidal flooding in the Pantura region can damage settlements, threaten food and fisheries security, and disrupt port operations. In this regard, concrete infrastructure is no longer adequate, necessitating adaptation based on integrated science and technology grounded in climate risks. “This infrastructure is less adaptive to sea level rise and extreme waves, making it easily overwhelmed, costly, and short-lived. Without ecosystem integration and adaptive governance, protection remains temporary and reactive, relying on repeated projects without sustainable solutions,” he stated. With integrated science-based infrastructure, Aprijanto revealed that abrasion can be reduced by 60-70 per cent, ecosystems improved, and coastal community incomes increased sustainably. The use of artificial intelligence, he continued, transforms coastal adaptation from reactive to anticipatory through the integration of tidal data, extreme weather, satellite imagery, and field sensors that can predict tidal flooding 24-48 hours in advance in real time within an integrated early warning scheme. “This system enables continuous monitoring, early detection of flooding and abrasion, and data-based decision-making. It also improves mapping accuracy, policy responses, and coastal management efficiency,” he said. Renewable ocean energy supports the operation of coastal adaptation systems such as sensors, pumps, and early warnings, while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Through digitalisation and renewable ocean energy, this research enhances physical resilience, strengthens risk-based and evidence-based adaptation governance, and bolsters national climate and maritime resilience. “Scientific innovations through hybrid infrastructure, predictive artificial intelligence, and integrated coastal data systems improve safety, reduce risks to strategic assets, strengthen logistics connectivity, and enhance national maritime competitiveness sustainably,” Aprijanto said.