Indonesia is considering ways to benefit from bitcoin adoption in the country, according to Governor of the Indonesian Province of West Java, Ridwan Kamil, and bitcoin advocate and JAN3 CEO Samson Mow. In a fireside chat titled “The Indonesia Bitcoin Mining Campaign,” Governor Kamil explained that Indonesia has the second highest geothermal potential in the world, with over 800 rivers with hydropower, making it an attractive destination for bitcoin mining.
There are already more than 12 million cryptocurrency investors in the country, 70% of whom are invested in bitcoin, a number which is growing by half a million every year. Governor Kamil believes bitcoin could be a transformative solution for the 40% of the population which is unbankable.
Additionally, an Omnibus bill that allows for 100% foreign investment into renewable energy projects above 1 MW could attract investment and attention to the region. Mow stated that “The first countries that adopt bitcoin in a meaningful way will have a big advantage.” Governor Kamil believes Indonesia could become a “Bitcoin heaven in the future.”
Who is Ridwan Kamil
Ridwan Kamil, also known as Emil, is an Indonesian politician and architect who has made a significant impact on the political and social landscape of Indonesia. Born on October 4, 1971, in Bandung, West Java, Ridwan Kamil has risen to prominence as a charismatic leader known for his progressive vision, urban planning expertise, and commitment to community development.
With a background in architecture, Ridwan Kamil established himself as a prominent figure in the field, known for his innovative and sustainable designs. His architectural firm, Urbane Indonesia, became renowned for its creative approach to urban development and community-centered design principles.
In 2013, Ridwan Kamil transitioned from architecture to politics and successfully ran for the position of Mayor of Bandung, Indonesia’s third-largest city. During his tenure, he implemented various initiatives aimed at transforming Bandung into a more livable, sustainable, and creative city. His urban planning strategies focused on improving infrastructure, revitalizing public spaces, and promoting environmentally friendly practices.
Ridwan Kamil’s leadership style, characterized by his accessibility and ability to connect with people, earned him widespread popularity and recognition. He actively engaged with the community, encouraging citizen participation and empowering local initiatives. His dedication to public service and innovative urban development garnered international acclaim, leading to invitations to speak at global forums and collaborate with international organizations.
In 2018, Ridwan Kamil took a step further in his political career and successfully ran for the position of Governor of West Java, the most populous province in Indonesia. As Governor, he has continued his mission of advancing sustainable development, enhancing infrastructure, and promoting economic growth in the region. His initiatives have focused on improving education, healthcare, and public welfare while emphasizing the importance of environmental sustainability.
Ridwan Kamil’s achievements have not only shaped the physical landscape of cities but have also had a profound impact on the social fabric of Indonesian society. He has championed inclusivity, diversity, and social justice, advocating for the rights and well-being of marginalized communities. His efforts to bridge the gap between government and the people have earned him the trust and admiration of many Indonesians.
Ridwan Kamil’s visionary leadership and dedication to creating livable, sustainable, and socially inclusive cities have established him as a prominent figure in Indonesian politics. His innovative approach to urban planning, coupled with his commitment to community development and social justice, has made him a beacon of hope for a brighter future in Indonesia.
Who is Samson Mow and what is JAN3
Samson Mow, renowned Bitcoin entrepreneur and former chief strategy officer of Blockstream, has unveiled his latest endeavor, JAN3, a company dedicated to accelerating Bitcoin adoption and driving digital infrastructure development.
With a clear vision for the future of Bitcoin, JAN3 has already made significant strides by signing a memorandum of understanding with El Salvador to assist in the creation of a robust digital infrastructure, including the groundbreaking Bitcoin City.
Bitcoin City and Partnership with El Salvador: JAN3’s collaboration with El Salvador marks a pivotal step in their mission. Through a general memorandum of understanding, JAN3 will work alongside President Nayib Bukele and the government to establish Bitcoin City. This visionary project aims to leverage the power of nearby volcanoes for geothermal energy to fuel both Bitcoin mining operations and the city’s overall infrastructure.
Impressive Funding and Support: JAN3 has wasted no time in gaining traction and financial backing. The company recently announced a successful funding round, raising an impressive $21 million at a valuation of $100 million. This investment was led by prominent figures in the cryptocurrency space, including Alistair Milne, chief investment officer of Atlanta Digital Currency Fund, Chun Wang, co-founder of crypto mining firm F2Pool, and El Zonte Capital, a new investment fund founded by Bitcoin advocate Max Keiser and his wife, Stacy Herbert.
JAN3’s Impact Beyond El Salvador: Samson Mow’s influence extends beyond El Salvador. During his appearance at the Bitcoin 2022 Conference, he revealed that JAN3 has secured the adoption of Bitcoin as legal tender in two additional jurisdictions: the Caribbean island of Roatán and Madeira, an autonomous region of Portugal. Mexico is also considering the idea, showcasing the growing momentum of Bitcoin as a recognized currency.
The Symbolic Name “JAN3”: The name “JAN3” holds a deep significance. It pays homage to January 3, 2009, the day when Bitcoin’s mysterious founder, Satoshi Nakamoto, mined the first block, commonly referred to as the “genesis block.” This choice reflects JAN3’s commitment to the foundational principles and transformative potential of Bitcoin. The company’s inaugural tweet cleverly referenced the iconic headline from The Times on that historical day.