Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia Inaugurates Two UNJ SFD Project Buildings

TIMESINDONESIA, JAKARTA – On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, the State University of Jakarta (UNJ) formally reiterated its dedication to enhancing the quality of higher education in Indonesia through the inauguration of Buildings 1A and 1B. The inauguration is part of the second phase of the “Development and Upgrading of the State University of Jakarta” project, a campus infrastructure development initiative supported by a loan from the Government of the Kingdom of the Saudi Arabia through the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD).

The inauguration of Buildings 1A and 1B signifies not only a milestone in the institution’s physical expansion but also a testament to UNJ’s transformation to the forefront of the international academic landscape. The two buildings (1A and 1B) were constructed with a smart building system incorporating modern design principles, environmental sustainability, and advanced learning facilities. These facilities include digital lecture rooms, integrated laboratories, discussion rooms, and collaborative areas for students and faculty members. In addition, both buildings have met green building standards, thereby aligning with the broader initiative to promote sustainable development. 

These building have several noteworthy advantages. Notably, they represent the inaugural government buildings to adopt Building Information Modelling (BIM), extending to 7D levels (comprising building operations and maintenance), incorporating 3D applications that facilitate tracing the history of the equipment acquisition and maintenance. The construction of these buildings was guided by the principles of Green Building, as certified by the Green Building Council Indonesia (GBCI). A notable feature of this structure is its incorporation of energy-efficient features, which include the provision of additional stairways in the addition to the standard emergency exits.  

The two buildings are also equipped with renewable energy sources, including solar panels installed on the rooftops. Additionally, they have been fitted with an integrated information system, further enhancing their sustainability and technological capabilities. The two building have integrated utilities, which are supported by a single powerhouse and a single groundwater tank. This configuration allows for space-efficient design, given the limited area on campus at Campus A UNJ. The integration of buildings is further facilitated by the presence of a connecting bridge, which fosters the development of numerous interaction spaces. This design also incorporates features that promote accessibility for individuals with disabilities and support recreational activities such as sports. 

The inauguration of the two buildings was attended by SFD delegates, including H.E. Faisal Abdullah as the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Indonesia, CEO Sultan Abdulrahman Al-Marshad; Director General of Asia Operations, Dr. Saud Alshammari; Director General of Corporate Communication, Ms. Randah Alhothali; Director of the Protocol Department, Faisal Alkhushaiban; and Head of the CEO Affairs Department, Fahad Alhaqbani.

The building was inaugurated by Professor Brian Yuliarto as the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia (Mendiktisaintek RI). In his inaugural speech, Professor Brian Yuliarto asserted that establishment of this modern facility serves as a manifestation of our collective dedication in transforming higher education into a catalyst for the nation’s advancement. Professor Brian Yuliarto also asserted that this institution has the potential to produce reliable researchers, innovators, creators, and most significantly, future leaders of Indonesia. 

Professor Brian Yuliarto also conveyed his profound appreciation for the collaboration of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, facilitated by the Saudi Fund for Development. The contribution of the Saudi Fund for Development has not only contributed to the development of physical infrastructure but also has played a pivotal role in fostering the advancement of scientific and technological collaboration Indonesia and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The collaboration will progressively strengthen the presence of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia within the higher education community in Indonesia and among the Indonesian populace at large. Professor Brian Yuliarto posited that each brick in the building is a symbol of the collective commitment to progress, with every classroom signifying a shared pledge for the nation’s future advancement and every laboratory as a harbinger of novel innovations and breakthroughs. 

Meanwhile, His Excellency Faisal Abdullah Al-Amudi, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Indonesia, conveyed greetings from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the people of Indonesia, with a particular emphasis on UNJ. The implementation of this project is hoped to be blessed, as is the cooperation between the two countries (the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Indonesia). In every aspect, every strategy in every component, God willing, will provide development for both countries, said H.E. Faisal Abdullah Al-Amudi.

On this occasion, Sultan Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, the Chief Executive Officer of SFD, expressed satisfaction regarding SFD's contribution to UNJ. It is our hope that the cooperative endeavour in which we are currently engaged shall continue to proceed in an orderly and effective manner. This initiative encompasses not only the enhancement of physical infrastructure but also the pursuit of educational advancement. According to Sultan Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, this project has the potential to transform the academic environment into a globally competitive one.

In regard to today’s inauguration, Professor Komarudin, who serves as the Rector of UNJ, stated on behalf of UNJs’ higher rank officials and academic community, expressed his profound gratitude for the collaboration and financial assistance in the form of a loan from the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD). The SFD Phase-2 project represents a continuation of the campus development that was initiated several years prior. This phase is characterized by an emphasis on enhancing the physical capacity of the campus, fortifying the academic system, and modernizing facilities and infrastructure to support a significant impact on campus.

“The construction of Buildings 1A and 1B is an embodiment of UNJ’s vision to evolve into a globally renowned institution that not only demonstrates academic excellence but also fosters innovative and cross-disciplinary collaborative environment. The university’s commitment to these values is reflected in its ongoing impact on campus life and development.” said the Rector of UNJ.

Professor Komarudin further elaborated that the inauguration of these two new buildings is expected to enhance the efficacy of the teaching and learning process at UNJ, thereby elevating the competitiveness of its graduates at both the national and international levels. This inauguration also signifies a pivotal milestone in UNJ's endeavours to evolve into a digital and environmentally sustainable (Green Campus) academic institution, aligning with the prevailing higher education transformation policies in Indonesia.