Yogyakarta, July 11, 2023 – The Faculty of Biology at Gadjah Mada University (UGM) received a cooperative visit from members of the Indonesian Army (TNI AD) on Tuesday, July 11, 2023. The visit was conducted to discuss coordination and synchronization in strengthening Science and Technology for Indonesia’s defense. The TNI AD delegation, consisting of high-ranking officers and officials, including 1. Expert Staff (Dislitbangad) Parawita Agus Setyaningtyas; Colonel Inf, 2. Head of Laboratory (Dislitbangad) Saptarendra Prasada; Colonel Arh, 3. Army Engineer Center (Pusziad) Aji Setyawan, S.H., M.I.P; Mayor Czi, 4. (Pusterad) Restu Petrus Simbolon; Lieutenant Colonel, 5. Cavalry Center (Pusskerkav) Colonel Edward Sitorus, was welcomed by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, and Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni.
The visit commenced at 4:00 PM local time in the Meeting Room of the KPTU Faculty of Biology UGM. After the welcoming session, the TNI AD delegation was taken on a tour of the laboratories and introduced to the outstanding research products at the Faculty of Biology UGM. The first destination was the Genetics and Breeding Laboratory, where Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono presented the laboratory’s flagship products, including Hikapel melons, Lurik peanuts, Gama Ayam, and Gama Ayam eggs.
Next, the visit continued to the Biotechnology Laboratory, where Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., presented microalgae products that can be used as supplements, biofuel, and body care. These products demonstrate potential for development in enhancing sustainability, energy efficiency, and supporting the defense sector.
The delegation then proceeded to the Biochemistry Laboratory, where they were welcomed by Dr. Yekti Asih Purwestri, S.Si., M.Si. In this laboratory, Dr. Yekti explained about pigmented rice products that have the potential to become functional food products rich in minerals and anthocyanins. The development of these products can support efforts to improve nutrition and health.
The next visit took place at the Entomology Laboratory, where the delegation was received by Drs. Hari Purwanto, M.P., Ph.D. Dr. Hari explained the potential of products derived from the cultivation of stingless bees, such as honey and propolis. These products have high economic value and can support national food security.
The final visit was conducted at the pond for the cultivation of wader pari fish, accompanied by Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc. Here, the delegation witnessed the development of technology for wader pari fish cultivation and the outstanding products that have been produced. The development of the fisheries sector holds great potential in enhancing food security and contributing to the defense sector of the country.
The TNI AD delegation showed great enthusiasm during this visit. They expressed hopes for the realization of cooperation between TNI AD and the Faculty of Biology UGM, aiming to enhance the standards of nutrition and food security technology for the defense of Indonesia. Through this collaboration, a strong synergy is expected to be achieved between higher education institutions and defense agencies in fulfilling the country’s strategic objectives.
