Climate change and water crises are increasingly becoming challenges felt at the local level. Their impacts extend beyond the environment, affecting daily life through access to clean water, public health, and the sustainability of community livelihoods. Therefore, strengthening community capacity is an important step to ensure communities can better understand these challenges while actively contributing to solutions.

As part of this effort, Rumah Energi organized a Training of Trainers (ToT) on Community-Based Water Conservation on May 12–13, 2026, at the Village Hall of Wanakerta Village, Telukjambe Barat District, Karawang Regency, and the Village Hall of Pasirranji Village, Cikarang Pusat District, Bekasi Regency. The activity involved village representatives, village cadres, the Rumah Energi team, and Microsoft as a program partner.

The training aimed to strengthen participants’ understanding of climate change and its impacts while enhancing their communication and facilitation skills to effectively educate communities. Recognizing the important role communities play in addressing climate and water crises, this capacity-building initiative is expected to develop facilitators and local change agents who can drive awareness, participation, and collective action at the community level.

Participants were divided into three groups with different learning themes:

• Group 1: Water Cycle and Climate Change
• Group 2: Chain Impacts of Climate Change
• Group 3: Comparing Past and Present Conditions

Through simulation activities, participants had the opportunity to practice public speaking, deliver educational materials, and facilitate discussions with fellow participants. Beyond strengthening their understanding of the topics, the process also helped build confidence among village cadres as future facilitators.

One participant, Mrs. Nirah, shared that the training provided her with a valuable new experience:

“This was my first experience. The training was very beneficial because we not only listened but were also taught how to communicate and speak in public. We will continue improving our abilities to become more confident.”

A similar sentiment was expressed by Mrs. Ika, who admitted she initially felt nervous when presenting during the simulation.

“We were very nervous. It turns out speaking in front of people and delivering materials is not easy. But we will not give up; instead, we are becoming even more motivated. Moal Kapok, Malah Gawok — we won’t be discouraged; we’ll become even more enthusiastic.”

Meanwhile, Mrs. Kayati also shared her experience during the practice session:

“I felt prepared beforehand, but when I stood in front of everyone, everything suddenly disappeared from my mind. I’m not discouraged. I’ll continue preparing myself mentally and become more motivated so I can be better prepared next time.”

Through this training, several potential champions were identified among village cadres who have the potential to become facilitators for the Community-Based Water Conservation module. Going forward, these champions are expected to become knowledge producers who can spread awareness and understanding of climate crises and the importance of water conservation within their communities.

Rumah Energi believes that building community resilience against climate challenges requires active participation from all stakeholders. When communities are empowered not only as beneficiaries but also as agents of change, the path toward an empowered Indonesia can be achieved together.