Dean of the Faculty of Economics, UNU Jogja, Launches Management Book “Transformational Leadership Toward the Era of Sustainability”

A transformational leader is someone who can inspire and motivate their team with a strong vision, while also empowering team members to innovate and take initiative. In today’s sustainability era, the presence of transformational leaders is essential for managing the environment responsibly.

This is the central theme of the book “Transformational Leadership Toward the Era of Sustainability”, launched during a book discussion titled “It’s Time to Be a Transformational Leader” at the UGM Library on Wednesday, Aug. 27. The management book was authored by a writing team led by Diah Retno Wulandaru, Dean of the Faculty of Economics at UNU Jogja.

Diah explained that the book emerged as the world entered the era of sustainability, where environmental issues have become a growing concern. Consequently, concepts of leadership have also evolved, including how leaders face the challenges of this new era.

“We also present stories related to the circular economy in this book to emphasize how leadership can mobilize communities to manage the environment in a sustainable way,” she said.

The book further elaborates on the concepts that must be mastered to become a transformational leader—particularly the ability to communicate effectively and drive change. Diah also highlights figures she considers exemplary transformational leaders in the sustainability era.

Two such figures are local leaders: Wahyudi Anggoro Hadi, Head of Panggungharjo Village, Bantul, Yogyakarta Special Region, and Junaedi Mulyono, Head of Ponggok Village, Klaten, Central Java.

Wahyudi, for instance, pioneered a village-based waste management system, turning it into a source of income through 68 waste banks and a plastic waste management company. “Panggungharjo Village has successfully transformed waste into economic opportunities by producing and selling recycled products,” Diah explained.

Meanwhile, Junaedi transformed Ponggok’s natural springs into an ecotourism destination that prioritizes environmental sustainability. “Profits from the village-owned enterprise (BUMDes) are allocated to environmental development programs, such as access to clean water and green open spaces,” she added.

The presence of these two local leaders is expected to serve as an example for nurturing future transformational leaders, ensuring sustainability remains a shared priority. “The book closes with a vision of a sustainable future for Indonesia and efforts to raise public awareness,” Diah concluded. [Arif]