DENPASAR — Bali Governor Wayan Koster attended and listened to a public lecture delivered by political observer and academic Rocky Gerung at the Auditorium of Universitas Mahasaraswati Denpasar (Unmas) on Tuesday (January 6, 2026).
In his opening remarks, Governor Koster described the theme of the lecture—“Dialectics and Rhetoric: Strengthening Logic and Reasoning in the Era of Artificial Intelligence”—as highly relevant and timely.
According to him, the topic reflects the realities currently faced by society amid the rapid development of digital technology, particularly the increasing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
“Technology has become an inseparable part of our daily lives, especially for students,” he said.
Despite the growing reliance on AI, the two-term Bali governor reminded students of the importance of utilizing technology without losing their identity as Balinese. He emphasized the need to continue preserving traditions, culture, and local wisdom.
“This is crucial so that traditional and modern knowledge can coexist and reinforce one another. They must not negate each other,” he stressed.
As Bali’s leader, Governor Koster reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding Balinese traditions, customs, and culture through various programs derived from the Nangun Sat Kerthi Loka Bali Vision. These efforts have been further strengthened through the Bali 100-Year Development Guideline.
To socialize and explain the long-term development framework, Governor Koster requested a special session to speak directly before the academic community of Universitas Mahasaraswati.
“The Bali 100-Year Development Guideline is extremely important, and we are currently at a critical stage. If we can start it well, it will become a strong foundation for a better Bali in the future,” he stated.
In his remarks, the governor, who hails from Sembiran Village, also shared his longstanding connection with Universitas Mahasaraswati. During his tenure as a member of the national legislature, he maintained close communication with the Chairperson of the PR Saraswati Foundation in Denpasar. His strong commitment to education led him to contribute to the allocation of state budget funds for the development of campus facilities.
“There have been developments of auditoriums, laboratories, libraries, and dental medical equipment. When I was still a member of the House of Representatives, I personally visited this campus,” he explained.
Governor Koster also praised Universitas Mahasaraswati for inviting Rocky Gerung to deliver the public lecture.
“Rocky Gerung is a good friend of mine. He is highly motivating, inspiring, and energizing. Even brief conversations with him—sometimes just over the phone—can spark enthusiasm. Thank you for taking the time to come to Bali. I know he is very busy. This is an honor for Universitas Mahasaraswati,” he said.
Meanwhile, in his lecture, Rocky Gerung emphasized that the presence of AI should be understood as a challenge for humans to continue thinking critically.
“AI helps us sharpen our thinking abilities. AI tests us, and at the same time, we must also test AI. The principle is simple: do not merely ask questions—criticize and examine the arguments,” he said.
He underlined that AI operates based on computational speed and artificial learning, while humans rely on experience, values, and consciousness.
“AI cannot think holistically and does not possess morality. That is the fundamental difference between AI and humans. We are moral beings, and passion exists within us,” he explained.
Rocky Gerung also expressed his appreciation for Unmas for choosing a theme centered on logic, dialectics, and rhetoric amid the rapid advancement of digital technology.
“The ability to think logically, argue dialectically, and communicate ideas effectively are core skills that must be continuously nurtured. I hope that from Bali will emerge a community that consistently upholds sound reasoning, and Universitas Mahasaraswati can be one of its guardians,” he concluded.
In addition to Governor Koster, the event was also attended by Chairperson of the PR Saraswati Foundation Denpasar, Tjok Istri Sri Ramaswati, SH, MM, and Unmas Rector Prof. Dr. Sukawati Lanang P. Perbawa, SH, MH. The public lecture was attended by lecturers and students of Universitas Mahasaraswati Denpasar.***
