Semarang, July 15, 2025 – Diponegoro University (UNDIP) successfully hosted the 20th Indonesian Regional Science Association (IRSA) International Conference 2025, held on July 14–15 at the Patra Hotel, Semarang. This event, a collaboration between the Department of Urban and Regional Planning (FT) and the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB) at UNDIP, carried the theme “Localizing Smart Economy and Infrastructure for Inclusive Growth and Sustainability.”
As an opening event, a pre-conference was held on July 13–14, 2025, at the UNDIP Urban and Regional Planning (PWK) Study Program. This event included workshops, academic discussions, and experience-sharing sessions aimed at strengthening participants’ capacities in regional economics, sustainable development, and spatial data-based approaches.
The main conference was attended by 343 participants, consisting of 258 presenters and 85 non-presenters, from various countries such as Japan, Australia, Singapore, Korea, the Netherlands, and Indonesia. Participants included academics, researchers, policymakers, and regional development practitioners. IRSA 2025 served as a cross-sector forum to discuss strategic issues such as the digital economy, smart infrastructure, regional inequality, and social and gender inclusion.
The event also featured five plenary speakers, prominent figures from various international and national institutions. They were Prof. (H.C. Undip) Ir. Bambang Susantono, MCP, MSCE, Ph.D. from the Cities and Local Government Institute Asia-Pacific; Prof. Nicholas Phelps from the University of Melbourne; Assoc. Prof. Rita Padawangi from the Singapore University of Social Sciences; Prof. F.X. Sugiyanto from Diponegoro University; and Prof. Arnold Tukker from Leiden University. These five speakers shared strategic insights on smart economy-based regional development, innovative governance, and sustainability within the context of global and local challenges.
The participation of various communities enriched the dynamic of the discussion. Tarsisius Tukang SE, M.Pd., a representative from the Albino Indonesia Family, stated that the conference provided new insights into trending issues, particularly regarding the involvement of vulnerable groups. Meanwhile, Aida Mudjib from the KONEKSI Disability Network commended the organizers for providing a spacious and accessible space for people with disabilities.
From international academics, Prof. Arnold Tukker from Leiden University expressed his appreciation for the excellent organization of the conference. He highlighted that more than 90% of participants were Indonesian citizens, yet able to actively participate in international languages. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining equitable economic development to further reduce social disparities.
The conference was supported by various institutions such as KONEKSI, CSIS, SMI Institute, The Asia Foundation, and Article 33 Indonesia. IRSA 2025 is expected to become a strategic momentum in formulating regional development policies that are inclusive, sustainable, and aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The spirit of collaboration fostered by IRSA 2025 is expected to continue and inspire future research agendas and development policies. See you at IRSA 2026 which will be held in Lampung!
