Depok, July 1, 2025 – In the face of climate change and global socio-economic disparities, the world needs a fairer and more sustainable economic system. The concept of a green economy has emerged as a strategic solution. In this context, Islamic financial institutions are seen as having significant potential to drive the transition to a green economy.
The National Seminar 2025, held at SEBI Hall, SEBI Institute, brought together experts and practitioners from various fields to discuss the strategic role of Islamic financial institutions, State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN), and universities in supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and green economic development.
The event was officially opened by the Rector of SEBI Institute, Sigit Pramono, Ph.D., CA., CPA, who emphasized the importance of sustainability. “We are not only called to excel globally, but also to provide benefits for the community. With the Sharia-based Triple Bottom Line approach, we aim to create fair sustainability values—profit, people, and planet,” he stated.
Contributions of Islamic Financial Institutions
Among the speakers, Rully Yusuf, Executive Vice President of PT Pegadaian, highlighted the importance of achieving the SDGs targeted for 2030, focusing on health and education. He stressed Pegadaian's commitment to sustainability, as regulated by Law No. 16 of 2016 and POJK No. 51/POJK.03/2017.
Pegadaian, established in 1901, has launched various sustainable programs, including:
- The Pegadaian Peduli Desa Program for environmental preservation.
- Assistance for 7,000 SMEs across Indonesia.
- Scholarships for 50 students.
- Research collaborations with educational institutions.
- Operations through 1,400 outlets nationwide.
Challenges and Solutions
Dr. Habibullah from UPZDK Permata Bank Syariah identified the challenges of low public trust and environmental degradation. From an Islamic perspective, the teaching to protect the Earth serves as a moral foundation for the involvement of zakat and Islamic financial institutions in sustainable development. UPZDK has made tangible contributions through:
- Green economic empowerment, increasing the income of 252 farmers.
- Providing capital support to entrepreneurial students.
- Programs in infrastructure and health sectors based on Sharia values.
The Role of Higher Education
Dr. Adril Hakim emphasized the role of universities in supporting the SDGs and green economy. He defined the green economy as a low-carbon system that is resource-efficient and socially inclusive. He also mapped the supply chain in the green economy, from farmers to consumers, highlighting the need for trained human resources.
Conclusion
This seminar represents an important moment for building synergy among BUMN, Islamic financial institutions, and universities. Through collaboration, Indonesia is expected to become a pioneer in the transition to an inclusive green economy based on Sharia values.