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Intan Faperta Advancing 
Impression of the first day of the Congres
Innovation, Hydrodynamic Engineering, and Global Collaboration

International Conference 
Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan, Indonesia
October 7 – 8, 2026
https://intan.faperta.ulm.ac.id/

Intan Faperta Advancing 
Sustainable Wetland Agriculture and Lowland Infrastructure through Innovation, Hydrodynamic Engineering, and Global Collaboration

International Conference 
Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan, Indonesia
October 7 – 8, 2026
https://intan.faperta.ulm.ac.id/

Back to Indonesia, for the children

Alabio Polder and collaboration with ULM
During visits to the Alabio Polder, Erik Reep spoke with farmers, fishers, local residents, officials, and scientists. Their experiences highlighted the close interconnections between water management, agriculture, nature, livelihoods, health, and future prospects. Revitalizing the polder requires both technical knowledge and attention to the people who live and work there. Lambung Mangkurat University, local authorities, communities, and other stakeholders each contribute their own expertise and responsibilities. Erik’s contribution focuses on listening, fostering connections, and highlighting the social perspective, with local knowledge and Indonesian scientific expertise serving as the starting point.

Transparency, Accountability and Trust

Pasar Malam

The biggest and most fun Pasar in the world!

Speaking with farmers and residents of Polder Alabio about the impact of flooding on agriculture, income, and daily life. Their experiences are essential for understanding the problems and developing appropriate solutions.

Practical support 
In consultation with the local care organization, practical items were purchased that contribute to a healthier and safer living environment for the children.

Erik, an Indo-Dutch citizen, serves as an intermediary, acting as an Indo-bridge to Indonesian local administrators and ministry representatives. 

What begins as a technical presentation about water and infrastructure has evolved into a broader social project.

Conversations with local communities in the Dessas region revealed that deep poverty and uncertain futures lie behind the water problems. Children, in particular, are growing up without prospects, dependent on circumstances beyond their control.

This is where the idea for the Indo-bridge originated: a human and symbolic connection, fostered by Indo-Dutch people who understand what it's like to live between two worlds. This bridge connects the Netherlands and Indonesia, but more importantly, connects people with people for children in need. This belief gave rise to the KIDS in Dire Straits Foundation, which offers children in poverty prospects through sustainable involvement and connections, based on the belief that every child has the right to a hopeful future.

These videos were filmed in recent days in the Balangan Amuntai district. This is what the floods look like, causing farmers to lose their harvests.