JAKARTA, Thekabarnes.com—Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo inaugurated retired Major Gen. Arnold Aristoteles Paplapna Ritiauw as Director General of Water Resources (Dirjen SDA).

The public works minister, Dody Hanggodo, led the inauguration on Friday, May 1, 2026. This marked an important change of leadership in one of the most strategic sectors in the ministry.

The appointment followed the issuance of a presidential decree, number 39/TPA/2026. This decree concerns the dismissal and appointment of senior leadership positions within the Public Works Ministry.

The decree formalized Arnold’s appointment to the high-ranking position in charge of national water resource management. This includes irrigation systems, flood control, dams, and water infrastructure development.

The appointment is timely as Indonesia continues to prioritize infrastructure resilience, water security, and climate adaptation in several regions.

Arnold was inaugurated together with Rachman Arief Dienaputra. He is now the expert staff for social affairs, culture, and community participation.

Rachman was previously director general of infrastructure financing before taking on his new advisory role in the ministry.

“Yes, please pray for us. True, Arnold has been appointed director general of water resources,” Rachman told Kompas.com Friday afternoon.

The appointment of Arnold, a retired military officer, has attracted attention. This appointment is in view of the strategic importance of the water resources director general in national development planning.

The position is important to support food security through irrigation systems and to prevent flood disasters. It also helps manage drought mitigation and improve water access in Indonesia.

There is a need for strong coordination across ministries, regional governments, and infrastructure agencies. Such coordination is important to provide leadership in the water resources sector, especially as climate-related risks continue to escalate.

In recent times, Indonesia has faced more and more challenges related to extreme weather, water shortages, and river basin management. These challenges make the water resources director general one of the most critical technical offices in the ministry.

The appointment also reflects the government’s broader drive to bolster institutional leadership with seasoned figures. These individuals are adept at handling complex national infrastructure priorities.

Dody Hanggodo said the government needs stronger execution and coordination to achieve its infrastructure goals. Strong coordination is particularly necessary in sectors that directly affect public welfare and national resilience.

Officials expect Arnold’s military background and administrative experience to strengthen leadership and operational discipline within the ministry.

As the new water resources director general, he now has the task of steering one of Indonesia’s most important development sectors. This will ensure water infrastructure is safe, efficient, and able to underpin long-term national growth.

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