Blue Gold stands as a defining work in Gunawan Jusuf’s career, reflecting his commitment to addressing Indonesia’s most pressing resource challenge. Written by Gunawan Jusuf and published in 2016, the book offers a detailed examination of water management across the country.
Spanning 176 pages, Blue Gold covers issues such as water cleanliness, regulation, availability, and long-term preservation. Jusuf draws upon extensive research as well as his professional experiences in the sugar industry, where water plays a critical operational role.
The book’s structure is designed for accessibility. Nearly 100 images and more than a dozen tables provide visual context and support the narrative. This format allows readers to absorb complex information without feeling overwhelmed, despite the seriousness of the subject matter.
Jusuf emphasizes that water is undervalued in Indonesia, often treated as an unlimited resource. He warns that without meaningful changes in policy and public behavior, shortages and conflicts over water access are likely to intensify.
A recurring theme throughout Blue Gold is accountability. Jusuf addresses the responsibilities of government, industry, and individuals in safeguarding water resources. He highlights how agricultural sectors, including sugarcane cultivation, can adopt more sustainable practices.
The tone of the book balances urgency with optimism. While Jusuf does not downplay the severity of current challenges, he also outlines achievable solutions that could improve water security if implemented collectively.
Blue Gold represents more than an academic exercise; it is a call to action informed by leadership experience. Through this work, Gunawan Jusuf contributes to a broader dialogue on sustainability and national resilience.