Partners commit to advancing evidence-based psychology in Indonesia

A landmark collaboration between JBI, the School of Psychology, University of Adelaide and leading Indonesian psychology organisations is setting a new course for evidence-based psychology across Indonesia.

In late July, academics from JBI (School of Public Health, University of Adelaide) and the University of Adelaide’s School of Psychology joined forces with Universitas Gadjah Mada, the University of Indonesia, the Indonesian Psychology Association (HIMPSI), and the Association of Higher Education Providers for Psychology in Indonesia (AP2TPI) to deliver two pivotal events in Yogyakarta.

The focused one-day roundtable, “Strengthening Evidence-Based Psychology: A Regional Roundtable for Policy and Practice,” was co-led by Bianca Pilla, Director of Global Relations at JBI; Professor Deborah Turnbull, Professor of Psychology at the University of Adelaide; and Professor Rahmat Hidayat, Dean at the Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Gadjah Mada. The event convened representatives from 23 psychology organisations—including peak bodies, associations, policymakers, and practitioners from across Indonesia, as far afield as Makassar, Bandung, Surabaya and Jakarta. 

“Evidence-based practice is a core principle in psychology, but awareness across Indonesia’s professional psychology organisations remains limited and inconsistent. The roundtable facilitated by the JBI team brought together 22 organisations and the national body, HIMPSI, raising awareness and producing a clear action plan to advance evidence-based practice. As the program’s initiator, AP2TPI extends sincere thanks to JBI and the Department of Psychology at the University of Adelaide for their invaluable support,” said Dr Rahmat Hidayat. 

Through interactive discussions, case presentations, and panel sessions, participants explored how evidence-based approaches could strengthen psychology education, regulation, and clinical care nationwide. The event culminated in a shared action plan outlining key opportunities for collaboration, training, and policy development. 

Building systematic review capacity across the sector

Running in parallel to the roundtable, JBI delivered its flagship Comprehensive Systematic Review Training Program (CSRTP) – a three-day intensive led by JBI Synthesis Science Research Fellows, Dr Sonia Hines and Dr Romy Jia.

The training welcomed 35 psychology academics from 20 universities across Indonesia, equipping participants with practical skills in planning, conducting, and reporting systematic reviews using JBI methodologies. The program forms part of a broader regional effort to build capacity for evidence generation and synthesis in psychology.

“There’s growing momentum to embed systematic, high-quality evidence into both education and practice,” said Dr Sonia Hines. “By working with academic leaders across Indonesia, we’re building a foundation for long-term change.”

A shared commitment to evidence-informed practice

The roundtable and training events marked the culmination of six months of planning between Australian and Indonesian partners, signalling a broader commitment to supporting psychology professionals with the tools, training, and networks needed to lead evidence-based reform.

“This collaboration is about more than a single event – it’s about sustained capacity building and systems-level change,” said Bianca Pilla. “Strengthening evidence-based psychology requires enduring partnerships, shared leadership, and the right tools and networks. The relationships forged here are a critical step toward helping shape the future of evidence-based psychology across Indonesia.” 

 “The pivotal roundtable laid the groundwork for future collaboration on evidence-based practice in psychology. The meeting, opened by Prof Bagus Takwin, marked a major step forward in building relationships and capacity with Indonesia’s psychology sector, “said Professor Deborah Turnbull. 

What’s next?

Following the success of the roundtable and training, JBI and the University of Adelaide will continue to work with HIMPSI, AP2TPI, and partner universities to implement the action plan, co-design future training, and support policy translation efforts across the region.

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