The 10th Short Course 2025 hosted a compelling session with Mr. Iskandar from the Bumi Langit Institute and was moderated by Intania Effendi, M.B.A. as a lecturer at Universitas Diponegoro. Mr. Iskandar delivered a powerful address challenging modern consumer culture and advocating for a return to conscious, resilient living. He presented a compelling critique that contemporary consumerization systematically erodes essential human capabilities, arguing that society becomes weaker as life becomes excessively convenient. This philosophy forms the foundation of Bumi Langit Institute, which he described as designed to restore a crucial element of consciousness about coexisting with nature and community.
Despite operating in the challenging environment of Yogyakarta, where soil quality is poor, Iskandar detailed how the institute has successfully implemented a robust system integrating organic farming methods and biogas technology. He emphasized that their primary objective for visitors is to raise fundamental awareness, noting that many people operate under a misconception of correctness, unaware that more harmonious and sustainable alternatives exist. This educational mission is central to the institute’s work, demonstrating practical pathways to a more resilient lifestyle.
The session was filled with a dynamic discussion where participants engaged deeply with Iskandar’s philosophy, exploring how these principles could be applied across various contexts. His perspectives powerfully illustrated that true regeneration requires more than just technical solutions, it demands a fundamental shift in how we perceive our relationship with the natural world and each other, moving towards a more conscious and interconnected existence.
