Speaking at the Permabudhi National Working Conference 2025 in Makassar on June 29, Hendropriyono emphasized the urgency of collaborative climate action and recognized the potential of Buddhist communities to contribute meaningfully to ecological preservation.

"The rising heat in Jakarta, Semarang, and Makassar is no longer just a natural occurrence," he said. "It reflects the consequences of our own actions. We all share responsibility for the climate crisis."

He pointed to unchecked energy consumption, infrastructure growth, transportation emissions, and inadequate waste management as key contributors to the country’s environmental challenges. In this context, he praised Eco-Dhamma as a much-needed initiative that bridges spiritual values and ecological responsibility.

“The Ministry of Environment stands ready to support the implementation of Eco-Dhamma,” he said, offering government mentorship on waste management and proposing partnerships to establish community-based waste banks across provinces.

Launched by Permabudhi in 2019, the Eco-Dhamma movement draws from the Dhamma’s ethical teachings to promote ecological awareness, compassion for all life, and responsible stewardship of the Earth. It encourages individuals and communities to adopt mindful, sustainable practices that reflect the interconnectedness of all beings.

“Eco-Dhamma is more than just an environmental program—it is a spiritual calling,” said Permabudhi Chairman Philip K. Widjaja. “Our vision is to harmonize physical and spiritual development by aligning our ecological values with the Buddha’s teachings.”

Under the Eco-Dhamma banner, Buddhist communities in Indonesia have developed eco-friendly temples, participated in reforestation efforts, promoted organic waste processing, and engaged in the Interfaith Forest Initiative—underscoring their commitment to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

As the climate crisis intensifies, Permabudhi’s efforts offer a model of spiritually grounded environmentalism—one that invites Buddhists to care not only for the inner world but for the planet we all share.