Jakarta, INTI - United in Diversity (UID) Bali Campus and the Tsinghua Southeast Asia Center are developing an AI-powered urban planning concept that integrates technology, systems thinking, and the local philosophy of Tri Hita Karana to improve people's quality of life.
Tantowi Yahya, President Commissioner of PT Bali Turtle Island Development (BTID), said the concept is being implemented through the Happy Digital X program, which combines artificial intelligence with urban planning, design thinking, and systems thinking.
“The more important thing is bringing all these elements together to create cities that are happier places for their residents,” Tantowi said during the China Southeast Asia Forum on Higher Education and Industry Cooperation 2026, held at the Kura-Kura Bali Special Economic Zone in Denpasar on Sunday, October 4, 2026.
According to Tantowi, technology-driven urban development should also take into account the values and philosophies embedded in local communities, including Bali's Tri Hita Karana philosophy.
This approach is expected to ensure that urban development goes beyond physical infrastructure and technological advancement by also incorporating values that support the well-being and quality of life of communities.
Technology Focused on Addressing Regional Challenges
UID Bali Campus Director Shobi Lawalata said the approach reflects efforts to integrate human needs, technology, and local values into regional development.
The collaboration between UID and Tsinghua University is aimed at developing practical solutions that can be applied to regional development and public services, rather than focusing solely on technological innovation.
The application of these technologies is expected to support the development of cities that are not only environmentally sustainable but also capable of improving people's overall quality of life.
Shobi also highlighted an innovation developed in collaboration with Tsinghua to help address stunting in Sumedang, West Java.
According to Shobi, the implementation of the innovation has contributed to a year-on-year reduction in stunting rates of up to 50 percent.
UID and Tsinghua Promote Digital Talent Development in Bali
Beyond developing AI-powered urban concepts, UID and the Tsinghua Southeast Asia Center are also supporting digital talent development in Bali through collaboration with various stakeholders.
UID has been appointed as one of the Garuda Spark Hub Innovation Hubs, serving as a platform that connects various initiatives and community activities to expand access for Balinese talent to AI education and other emerging technologies.
Shobi emphasized that AI development cannot rely solely on investment in machines and physical infrastructure, as knowledge transfer and human capital development are equally essential.
Collaboration with universities and industry players in China is expected to create opportunities for young Indonesians to gain education, practical experience, and exposure to the latest technological developments.
Conclusion
The collaboration between UID Bali Campus and Tsinghua Southeast Asia Center highlights a human-centered approach to AI-powered urban development. By combining advanced technology, systems thinking, design thinking, and the Tri Hita Karana philosophy, the initiative aims to create smarter, greener, and more livable cities while strengthening digital talent and delivering technology-driven solutions to regional challenges.
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