Economists Who Choose to Stand on the Side of the Environment

GARISBUMI.com – Long before the climate crisis was widely discussed, Emil Salim warned that economic growth should not deplete natural wealth and rob the next generation of their future.

In the 1970s, Indonesia was actively developing. Roads were extended, factories were built, industrial areas grew, and natural resources were opened up to drive the economy. The success of development is mostly assessed by economic growth and increasing infrastructure.

In the midst of this great enthusiasm, environmental issues have not received the attention they do now. The impact of development on forests, rivers, land and people's lives has not always been a primary consideration.

Emil Salim is here to bring a different perspective. As an economist, he understands the importance of growth. However, he also saw that development could lose meaning if economic benefits were only enjoyed today, while the damage was passed on to the next generation.

Emil Salim became known as an economist, academic and former minister who became one of the pioneers of environmental policy in Indonesia. In 1978, he was trusted to lead the first ministry with a special mandate to deal with development and environmental issues.

Growing Up in a Family That Values Education

Prof. Dr. Emil Salim was born in Lahat, South Sumatra (Sumsel), on June 8 1930. His childhood took place when Indonesia was still under colonial rule. Education has not become something that is easily accessible to all levels of society.

Emil comes from a Minangkabau family that places education, service and social responsibility as important values. He is also the nephew of Haji Agus Salim, diplomat, journalist, and one of the important figures in Indonesia's struggle for independence.