Build the Next Southeast Asia: Bali 6H AI x SDGs Innovation Mini Hackathon Empowers Next Generation of Changemakers in Southeast Asia

Build the Next Southeast Asia: Bali 6H AI x SDGs Innovation Mini Hackathon Empowers Next Generation of Changemakers in Southeast Asia

Bali, Indonesia — June 30, 2026 — Build the Next Southeast Asia: Bali 6Hours AI x SDGs Innovation Mini Hackathon, themed "AI for Bali: Innovation, Governance, and Sustainable Tourism," concluded successfully at UID Bali Campus, Kura Kura Bali SEZ, bringing together 28 participants across 8 teams for a day of intensive collaboration and rapid prototyping. The event was organized by ATOX | TIDE in collaboration with United In Diversity, and supported by Tsinghua University and Peking University through their joint community network.

Running from 8 AM to 6 PM, the day began with a sprint session in which participants examined the pressing issues facing Bali today and explored how AI could be applied not merely as a tool, but as a genuine driver of solutions. Teams then spent six hours in focused ideation and prototyping, addressing challenges across six thematic tracks: Sustainable Bali, Tourism & Hospitality, Digital Nomad Life, Local Governance, Cultural Preservation, and Indonesia-China Exchange.

Participants came from a wide range of backgrounds, including founders, builders, and students, reflecting the event's commitment to accessibility. The hackathon was designed to welcome anyone, regardless of whether they had prior experience in building products or working with AI. This approach allowed participants to connect through their individual strengths, with each team naturally organizing around complementary roles, from generating ideas to bringing them to life through prototyping.


The event culminated in a final pitching session, where RindiX was recognized by the panel of judges as the standout team, for their concept of AI-powered digital replicas of museum artifacts. The innovation allows visitors a rich, hands-on learning experience, including the ability to virtually "play" traditional instruments, without putting the fragile originals at risk.

The success of the hackathon underscores the growing momentum of purpose-driven innovation in the region. Beyond the prototypes developed, the event fostered a strong sense of community and laid the groundwork for future collaboration among participants, mentors, and partners. With promising ideas emerging and connections formed, Build the Next Southeast Asia: Bali 6Hours AI x SDGs Innovation Mini Hackathon has set a solid foundation for continued initiatives that empower changemakers to harness technology for sustainable and inclusive growth across Southeast Asia.