For Ali Ashat, science does not end at the laboratory door. For more than two decades, he has worked to connect scientific knowledge with the real needs of society, and he now brings that experience to the leadership of Partai Jari Ibu.
Rooted in the Regions, Shaped by Organizations
Ali was born in Pati, Central Java, grew up in Pati and Kudus, and in 1989 began studying Petroleum Engineering at Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB). As a student far from home, he was entrusted to serve as Chair of the Pati Student Family Association (IKMP) in Bandung. He was also active in the Bandung Student Association (PMB), the Indonesian National Student Movement (GMNI), the ITB Petroleum Engineering Student Association “PATRA,” and the Student English Forum (SEF). From a young age, he has been accustomed to leading, organizing, and working alongside people from many different backgrounds.
Proven Expertise, Demonstrated Consistency
After graduating, Ali dedicated himself to the ITB Geothermal Laboratory, then pursued postgraduate studies at the Geothermal Institute, University of Auckland, New Zealand, in 1999. Upon returning in 2000, he rejoined ITB and has remained committed to the geothermal field to this day. Since 2013, he has also been pursuing a doctoral degree at Kyushu University, Japan. Such consistency reflects the integrity and perseverance that long-term leadership demands.
Building Institutions, Nurturing the Next Generation
In 2008, Ali helped initiate the founding of ITB’s Master’s Program in Geothermal Energy, and since 2012 he has served on the program’s Advisory Board. He has supervised dozens of students in their research and final projects. He has not only devoted himself to his field, but has also built institutions and prepared the generation that will follow.
Grounded in Evidence, Recognized by His Profession
Nearly one hundred of his scientific works have been published in international journals and conference proceedings, and he has co-authored several books on geothermal energy. His expertise has been called upon for consulting and project support on geothermal projects in Indonesia and abroad. He is also active in the Indonesian Geothermal Association (API/INAGA) and the International Geothermal Association (IGA). With this track record, the decisions he makes rest on data and rigorous analysis, not mere rhetoric.
Listening to Public Concerns and Responding to Them
What sets Ali apart is his willingness to engage directly with communities. He has consistently carried out public outreach and education to address the concerns and social issues that often stand in the way of development. He understands that good policy succeeds only when people understand and accept it, and that requires patient listening, honest explanation, and a shared search for solutions.
A Leader Who Builds Bridges
Ali’s career demonstrates a rare ability to connect education, science, industry practice, professional organizations, policy, and public acceptance. This capacity for bridge-building is exactly what a new party needs in order to work responsibly and sustainably.
