Dr. Jithin Sundaresan delivering his presentation on IoT-driven sustainable manufacturing at ICOBAR 2025, highlighting Indonesia’s path to green industry.

On the first day of ICOBAR-FIDI Joint Scientific Forum 2025, Dr. Jithin Sundaresan from BINUS University emphasized the urgent need for Indonesia to embrace sustainable manufacturing practices, with the Internet of Things (IoT) as a key enabler.

Manufacturing already accounts for 18% of Indonesia’s GDP and 14% of its jobs, but also contributes nearly 30% of national emissions. According to Dr. Jithin, this dual role makes the sector both a backbone of prosperity and a major source of environmental challenges. He stressed that “efficient industry is the sole key to prosperity,” echoing Henry Ford, but with the modern caveat of sustainability.

IoT, he explained, can help industries cut waste, reduce energy consumption, and enhance productivity by enabling machines and processes to “talk” to each other in real time. From smart logistics to predictive maintenance, IoT-powered systems can support Indonesia’s net-zero 2060 ambitions while improving competitiveness.

Citing case studies from collaborations with IIITDM Kanchipuram and NIT Trichy, as well as industry examples like PT Akebono’s IoT adoption with Telkomsel, Dr. Jithin showed how data-driven manufacturing unlocks efficiency and reduces ecological footprints.

However, he cautioned that challenges remain, including high upfront costs, SME readiness, and workforce skills gaps. To overcome these barriers, he called for stronger collaboration between industry, academia, and government.

“Indonesia has a real opportunity to lead with sustainable manufacturing,” Dr. Jithin concluded. “By combining innovation, IoT, and responsible practices, we can ensure growth that benefits both society and future generations.”

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