The Regional Resource Centre for Asia and the Pacific at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT RRC.AP), with financial support from the Ministry of the Environment, Japan (MoEJ), and in collaboration with the University of North Sumatra (USU), successfully conducted the Seminar on Local Adaptation Planning Tools for Urban Flood Resilience in Medan, Indonesia. The event brought together government officials, academics, technical experts, and development partners to strengthen local capacity for climate adaptation and urban flood risk management.
The seminar responded to growing concerns over recurrent flooding in Medan, driven by rapid urbanization, land-use change, inadequate drainage capacity, river overflows, and increasingly intense rainfall associated with climate change. The event aimed to enhance the ability of local stakeholders to apply climate-risk information, adaptation tools, and early warning systems to support evidence-based planning and decision-making.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Dr. Eng. Himsar Ambarita, Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Cooperation at USU, highlighted the university's commitment to addressing environmental challenges through research, innovation, and collaboration.
"We hope that the results of this workshop can contribute to policy recommendations based on academic studies and multi-stakeholder engagement, supporting more effective flood management in Medan City."
Representing the Ministry of the Environment, Japan, Mr. Taiki Kohno, Assistant Director of the Climate Change Adaptation Office, delivered virtual remarks emphasizing the importance of international cooperation and local capacity development in strengthening climate resilience.
Dr. Guilberto Borongan, Director of AIT RRC.AP, underscored the role of science, technology, and data-driven approaches in climate adaptation planning. He emphasized that adaptation planning tools can help local governments better understand risks, prioritize investments, and strengthen disaster preparedness.
A key component of the seminar was the technical demonstration and hands-on training delivered by Mr. Ahmad F. Ibadurrahman from the Solution Design Department of Hitachi Power Solutions Co., Ltd. The training focused on the practical application of FloodS and DioVista, advanced adaptation planning tools designed to support flood risk modelling, climate projection analysis, and vulnerability assessment. Through interactive exercises, participants gained hands-on experience in applying climate and hydrological data for risk-informed decision-making, urban flood management, disaster preparedness, and long-term resilience planning.
Speaking during the workshop, Huno Solomon Kofi Mensah, Head of the Climate Change Cluster at AIT RRC.AP, highlighted the value of adaptation tools and technologies in supporting local governments.
"These tools help cities model flood risks, analyse climate data, and develop mitigation measures that reduce impacts on infrastructure, livelihoods, and communities."
The workshop also featured presentations from technical expert including hydrologists and climate specialists, who shared insights into Medan's flood risks, governance arrangements, and opportunities for integrating climate information into urban planning processes.
A key highlight of the programme was a field visit to the Medan Flood Control (MFC) infrastructure managed by the Balai Besar Wilayah Sungai (BBWS) Sumatera II Medan. The visit provided participants with a practical understanding of ongoing flood management efforts in the city and demonstrated how structural and non-structural measures are being combined to reduce flood risks.
During the visit, participants were received by Robby Indra Gartika, Head of the Water Resources Infrastructure Performance Division (KPI SDA), representing the Head of BBWS Sumatera II Medan. The delegation was briefed on the design, operation, and role of the Medan Flood Control system in mitigating flood risks across urban areas. Discussions also explored challenges related to urban growth, climate change, and the need for integrated approaches to flood management.
The field visit facilitated meaningful exchanges between government officials, academics, and technical practitioners on practical solutions for enhancing urban resilience and adapting to future climate risks. The seminar and field visit attracted participation from representatives of Medan City Government agencies, provincial institutions, universities, and technical organizations, including USU, UISU, UNIMED, UMSU, and POLMED. The strong participation reflected a shared commitment to strengthening collaboration among academia, government, and development partners in addressing climate-related challenges.
Through this initiative, AIT RRC.AP and its partners continue to support cities across Asia and the Pacific in building resilience to climate change through the application of innovative adaptation tools, strengthened early warning systems, and evidence-based planning approaches that contribute to sustainable urban development.
