UID-Tsinghua Develop AI-Based Urban Concept Integrated with Tri Hita Karana
Denpasar (ANTARA) - The United in Diversity (UID) Bali Campus, in partnership with the Tsinghua Southeast Asia Centre, is developing an urban planning concept based on Artificial Intelligence (AI). This concept integrates technology, systems thinking, and the local Tri Hita Karana values to improve the quality of life for the community.
The President Commissioner of PT Bali Turtle Island Development (BTID), Tantowi Yahya, stated that this concept is realised through the ‘Happy Digital X’ programme. This programme combines AI with urban planning, design thinking, and systems thinking to create urban environments that foster greater happiness for residents.
“What is more important is that all of this is combined so that we can create cities that are happier for their citizens,” said Tantowi during the China Southeast Asia Forum on Higher Education and Industry Cooperation 2026, held at the Kura-Kura Bali Special Economic Zone, Denpasar, Bali, on Sunday.
According to Tantowi, technology-based urban development must consider the values living within the community, including the Tri Hita Karana philosophy in Bali. Consequently, development should not only focus on physical infrastructure and technology but also on values that support community life.
Meanwhile, the Director of UID Bali Campus, Shobi Lawalata, noted that this approach aligns with efforts to present development that integrates human aspects, technology, and local values in practice. The collaboration between UID and Tsinghua University is also directed towards producing solutions applicable to regional development and public services, rather than mere technological advancement.
He added that the use of technology is expected to support urban development that is not only green but also capable of creating a better life for its people. On this occasion, Shobi also mentioned the application of innovations developed with Tsinghua in efforts to reduce stunting rates in Sumedang, West Java, noting that stunting reduction has reached 50 per cent year-on-year.
In addition to AI-based urban development, Shobi stated that UID and the Tsinghua Southeast Asia Centre are also promoting the development of digital talent in Bali through collaborations with various parties, including the Ministry of Communication and Informatics. He mentioned that UID has been appointed as one of the Garuda Spark Innovation Hubs, serving as a connection point for various community initiatives and activities to expand access for Balinese talent to AI education and other technologies.
According to Shobi, AI development cannot rely solely on investment in machinery and physical infrastructure. Knowledge transfer and the enhancement of human resource capabilities are also vital components in building technological capacity in Indonesia. Therefore, cooperation with universities and industry players in China is expected to open opportunities for the younger generation to gain education, experience, and exposure to cutting-edge technological developments.