The Head of the Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs of Bali Province, I Gusti Made Sunartha, alongside with his officers, conducted a strategic audience meeting with the Government of Klungkung Regency at the Regent’s Office on Tuesday (May 12, 2026). The meeting focused on follow-up discussions regarding the planned development of a Widyalaya educational institution in Klungkung Regency.
During the audience, I Gusti Made Sunartha stated that the development of Widyalaya institutions forms part of the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ commitment to strengthening the quality of Hindu religious education in Bali.
“We hope that synergy between the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the Regional Government, and all elements of society will accelerate the realization of Widyalaya as a center of excellence for Hindu education that is both high-quality and character-driven,” he stated.
He also revealed that the pilot project for the establishment of a State Widyalaya in Jembrana has already begun and is expected to commence operations in 2027, covering educational levels from Kindergarten to Junior High School.
The involvement support of regional leadership elements in this initiative is intended to strengthen technical coordination so that all planning stages can proceed in accordance with applicable regulations and procedures.
Meanwhile, the Regent of Klungkung, I Made Satria, welcomed the development plan and expressed support for the advancement of religious education in Klungkung Regency.
“The Klungkung Regency Government is ready to support this strategic initiative as a long-term investment in developing future generations who are principled, culturally grounded, and guided by religious values,” he remarked.
Agreeing with this initiative, the Regional Secretary of Klungkung Regency, Anak Agung Gede Lesmana, emphasized the importance of cross-sector coordination in both the planning and implementation processes.
“We are prepared to strengthen coordination and support all administrative and technical stages involving the Widyalaya development plan can run smoothly and suit with the regulations,” he explained.
Following the meeting with regional government officials, the delegation from the Bali Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs continued their agenda with a visit to Puri Agung Klungkung. The visit aimed to strengthen ties and formally present the Widyalaya development plan to the royal family elders (Penglingsir) of Puri Agung Klungkung while seeking their blessings and support.
Penglingsir of Puri Agung Klungkung also expressed support for the initiative.
“We hope that the establishment of this Widyalaya will become a foundation for nurturing future generations who possess knowledge, spirituality, and a deep appreciation for culture and Hindu teachings,” he stated.
Through the synergy between the Ministry of Religious Affairs, regional governments, and community leaders, the development of Widyalaya institutions is expected to be realized soon as part of efforts to strengthen Hindu religious education in Klungkung Regency.
Editor : I Made Juni Saputra
Photographer : I Gusti Ngurah Sathya Dharma
Contributed and Translated by Muhammad Mahmud Alhushori
