I Wayan Gede Krisna Arimjaya is a graduate of the Master of Geography Study Program, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Indonesia (FMIPA UI) who is one of the graduates who achieved a perfect Cumulative Achievement Index (GPA), namely 4 with Cumlaude predicate.
This was announced at the University of Indonesia (UI) Graduation Ceremony for the 2021/2022 Academic Year held on August 10, 2022, at the UI Depok Campus.
As a native son of Bali, I Wayan has proven that the opportunity to learn and achieve success is available to anyone, regardless of origin, ethnicity, race, and religion.
I Wayan was accepted into the master’s program at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Indonesia, in 2020 through the SIMAK UI pathway. Studying during the COVID-19 pandemic, he said that the online courses made it easier for him to complete his education at the Faculty.
“So far, I’ve foundonlinelectures to be more convenient, asallresourcesare online, and fieldwork is done independently in each individual’s area, streamlining the entire process. Travel time is reduced, allowing students to pursue more productive activities,” he said.
Through his thesis entitled “Spatial Modeling Based on Calibration Interval Scenarios, Case Study: Land Cover Change in East Kalimantan Province 2016-2036,” I Wayan examines the problem of deforestation in East Kalimantan that needs to be controlled through land cover change modeling. He analyzed the classification and validation of multi-temporal land cover maps, analyzed optimal model investigations, and synthesized land cover predictions in 2036 and an analysis of spatial patterns of land cover change 2016–2036.
From this research, I Wayan found a decline in forest cover from 2016 to 2021, with a deforestation rate of 651 km2/year. It is predicted that by 2036, forest cover will remain at 69,203 km2. Topography is the most influential variable driving land cover change in East Kalimantan.
The rate of deforestation is not linear over the predicted timeframe. Topography is suspected to be both a primary driver of land cover change and a limiting factor. Therefore, I Wayan hopes his research can be continued to examine the relationship between land cover change and topography, using both static and dynamic variables.
“I hope this research can contribute to the government, especially in the development of Indonesia’s new capital city in Kalimantan. Throughout this study and research process, I have consistently held onto one value: to strive to provide added value to all stakeholders,” added the man, who was born in Gianyar 36 years ago.
I Wayan said, when someone is given any task, give them more than they can handle. If they’re asked for one, give them two. “If there’s an assignment due tomorrow, try to finish it today. That will add value to every process and effort we put in,” I Wayan said.
