Jakarta, INTI - The City of Semarang has achieved international recognition after its AI-powered waste management initiative, AISSA (Artificial Intelligence Solusi Sampah), was selected among the Top 30 Exemplary Initiatives at the 7th Guangzhou International Award for Urban Innovation 2026. The achievement highlights Semarang's commitment to technology-driven urban governance under the leadership of Mayor Agustina Wilujeng Pramestuti.
Global Recognition for AI-Driven Urban Innovation
The recognition was announced during the 2026 United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) World Congress held in Tangier, Morocco, on June 25, 2026. AISSA was recognized for its innovative use of artificial intelligence to improve waste management while supporting the city's broader digital transformation agenda.
The award places Semarang alongside leading cities worldwide that have introduced outstanding urban innovations in public services, digital governance, environmental management, and sustainable development. AISSA was acknowledged for addressing urban waste challenges through an integrated AI-based approach.
Mayor Agustina Wilujeng Pramestuti described the recognition as a testament to the collective efforts of the city's government and community in building a responsive, innovative, and citizen-centered administration.
"This award reflects the dedication of everyone in Semarang to creating a city that delivers smart solutions for its people. A truly advanced city is not only defined by its infrastructure but also by its ability to solve real-world challenges through innovation," she said.
According to the mayor, the achievement is more than an international accolade, it validates Semarang's strategic direction in leveraging digital technology to improve public services. She reaffirmed the city's commitment to expanding digital transformation in order to deliver faster, more transparent, and more efficient government services.
"We want every innovation to create tangible benefits for our citizens. Technology should accelerate public services, protect the environment, improve government efficiency, and make Semarang cleaner, more comfortable, and more competitive. This international recognition motivates us to continue developing new breakthroughs," she added.
AISSA Power Smarter and Sustainable Waste Management
The Guangzhou International Award for Urban Innovation is a prestigious biennial competition jointly organized by the Guangzhou Municipal Government, United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG), and Metropolis. The award recognizes cities that demonstrate outstanding innovation in addressing urban challenges.
For the 2026 edition, 381 innovations from 248 cities across 60 countries competed in areas including artificial intelligence, digital governance, climate resilience, public services, and sustainable development.
AISSA successfully passed the evaluation of a Technical Committee comprising nine international experts, earning its place among the world's top 30 urban innovation initiatives.
The AI-powered platform was developed to optimize waste monitoring, analysis, and response through an integrated intelligent system. As part of Semarang's smart city strategy, AISSA enhances environmental management while promoting greater operational efficiency and sustainability.
This achievement places Semarang alongside internationally recognized innovation leaders such as Moscow, Vienna, and Bristol, further strengthening the city's reputation as one of Indonesia's leading smart cities. Through continued investment in digital transformation, environmental innovation, and AI-driven public services, Semarang aims to improve quality of life while setting a global benchmark for sustainable urban development.
Conclusion
Semarang's inclusion among the Top 30 Exemplary Initiatives at the Guangzhou International Award 2026 highlights the city's growing leadership in smart urban innovation. Through the AI-powered AISSA platform, Semarang is demonstrating how artificial intelligence can enhance public services, improve environmental management, and support sustainable urban development. The international recognition reinforces the city's commitment to expanding digital transformation while delivering practical, citizen-focused solutions for a smarter and more resilient future.
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