Lawmakers Hail Surabaya's Global Partnerships to "Go International"

RRI.CO.ID, Surabaya - Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR RI) has praised Surabaya, the capital of East Java, for successfully expanding its international cooperation network through its sister city program. Of the city's 15 partnerships with overseas cities and countries, 13 remain active.

The recognition was delivered by Syahrul Aidi Maazat, chach of the House's Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Committee (BKSAP), during a parliamentary event on Thursday, July 9, 2026. He said Surabaya's achievements should serve as a model for other regions seeking to develop productive subnational diplomacy.

"There is much that can be learned from Surabaya, from environmental management, waste-to-energy initiatives, and mangrove conservation to strengthening sister city partnerships. We will share this success story during our visits to other regions so it can inspire them," he said.

Syahrul added that BKSAP is committed to helping raise the international profile of Indonesia's second-largest city by strengthening its global cooperation network. Through closer coordination between the House of Representatives, the central government, and local administrations, parliamentary diplomacy is expected to deliver tangible benefits, including increased investment, greater market access for small businesses and industry, research collaboration, and the exchange of best practices in urban governance.

"We are ready to support Surabaya's efforts to go international and to serve as a bridge of communication with other countries and the global community," he said.

Syahrul also praised Surabaya's environmentally friendly innovations aimed at reducing waste and promoting the green economy. He said these initiatives are in line with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and deserve to be showcased at international forums.

"This will become one of the key points we present in international forums to demonstrate that Indonesia is making progress toward achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals," he said.