Yogyakarta, August 14, 2026 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), held a socialization event for the 2026 New Curriculum for undergraduate students on Friday, August 14, 2026. Conducted online, this strategic initiative aims to align the higher education system with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in ensuring quality, inclusive, and relevant education that addresses global challenges.

The event was led directly by the Head of the Undergraduate Biology Study Program, Sukirno, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., and was attended by students from the classes of 2020 to 2025. In his opening remarks, Sukirno emphasized that the 2026 Curriculum is designed not only to meet the dynamic demands of the workforce but also as a tangible contribution from the Faculty of Biology UGM toward achieving the SDGs. The development of the 2026 Curriculum aligns with the spirit of SDG 4, which emphasizes quality, inclusive, and equitable education. The new curriculum is built on an Outcome-Based Education (OBE) approach, ensuring that every student learning outcome is measurable and relevant to 21st-century competencies, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills. Its flexible structure, offering options for second majors, minors, and fast-track programs, also provides students with broader access to develop their potential according to their interests and talents, in line with the principle of inclusivity within SDG 4.

“We have designed this curriculum so that Biology UGM graduates are not only academically excellent but also possess a strong concern for environmental and social sustainability issues. We aim to produce a generation ready to contribute to sustainable development,” said Sukirno. A key focus of this socialization was mitigating the impact of the new curriculum’s implementation on students from older cohorts (2020–2025). The Faculty of Biology recognizes the importance of a fair transition process that does not disadvantage any student, in accordance with the ‘leaving no one behind’ principle of the SDG agenda. Students are given the freedom to either remain on their old curriculum or switch to the new one, with a prepared course conversion mechanism. Course enrollment strategies have also been refined to reduce the risk of extended study periods. This policy reflects the faculty’s commitment to ensuring educational continuity for all students without exception, while also supporting the creation of a safe and supportive learning environment.

The process of developing and socializing the 2026 Curriculum involved cross-stakeholder collaboration, including faculty members, administrative staff, alumni, and students. This reflects the strengthening of partnerships to achieve shared goals (SDG 17). Previous academic and student workshops also serve as concrete evidence of the collective commitment to perfecting an adaptive and high-quality education system. Through this collaboration, it is expected that the 2026 Curriculum will become a foundation for innovation and research in biology that addresses global issues, such as food security (SDG 2), biodiversity conservation (SDG 15), and climate action (SDG 13).

With the implementation of the 2026 Curriculum, the Faculty of Biology UGM is not only striving to improve the quality of education but also actively contributing to the achievement of SDG targets. This step affirms the strategic role of higher education institutions in producing excellent human resources capable of becoming agents of change for sustainable development at both national and global levels.

Yogyakarta, August 11, 2026 – In preparation for the start of the new academic year, the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada officially welcomed its newest cohort of undergraduate students through the “Academic and Student Affairs Explanation” event, held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. The session took place at the Auditorium of Biologi Tropika from 08.00 to 12.00 WIB and was specifically designed for all incoming freshmen of the Class of 2026. The half‑day program served as a crucial introduction to the academic landscape and student life within the Faculty. The event was led by key faculty administrators, including the Head of the Undergraduate Biology Study Program, Mr. Sukrino, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. , and Ms. Emi Dwi Suryanti, S.Si., M.Sc. , who delivered comprehensive briefings on curriculum structure, graduation requirements, research opportunities, and the various support systems available to students.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Sukrino emphasized the faculty’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and scientific inquiry, while Ms. Emi Dwi Suryanti highlighted the importance of balancing scholarly pursuits with active participation in student organizations and community service. The agenda also included practical guidance on course registration, academic advising, and campus facilities, as well as a question‑and‑answer segment to address freshmen’s concerns.

In a special moment during the event, the Chairperson of Dharma Wanita Persatuan (DWP) of the Implementing Unit of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, distributed 282 Jasmine vouchers, each valued at Rp10,000, to all new students of the Class of 2026. This token of appreciation was provided as a warm welcome and a gesture of support to help ease the initial transition of students into campus life. The distribution symbolized the faculty’s care and commitment to student welfare from the very first day.

This orientation program is part of the Faculty of Biology’s broader commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) , particularly: SDG 4 (Quality Education) – by ensuring inclusive, equitable, and high-quality education through comprehensive academic guidance and student support systems. SDG 15 (Life on Land) – by equipping future biologists with the knowledge and skills to protect, restore, and sustainably manage terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity. SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) – by fostering collaborative networks among students, faculty, researchers, and community stakeholders to address global environmental challenges. SDG 13 (Climate Action) – by integrating climate resilience and sustainability into the curriculum, preparing students to contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) – through promoting a balanced academic and social life that supports mental and physical well-being for all students, including the provision of basic needs support such as the voucher distribution. SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) – through small-scale economic assistance that helps reduce financial burdens for students from diverse economic backgrounds, ensuring equal access to a positive start in higher education.

“This orientation is not just about rules and regulations; it is about equipping our new students with the knowledge and confidence to navigate their university journey successfully—while also inspiring them to become agents of change for a more sustainable future,” said Mr. Sukrino. “We want them to feel supported from day one, and we want them to understand that their role as biologists extends beyond the laboratory to the betterment of society and the planet.” The event marked the official start of the academic year for the Class of 2026, setting the stage for a productive and enriching experience at one of Indonesia’s leading biological sciences institutions. The Faculty of Biology looks forward to nurturing the next generation of biologists, researchers, and environmental stewards who will actively contribute to achieving the SDGs.

On Wednesday, August 12, 2026, an “Outing Class” activity took place at the Kledhokan Hamlet Hall and the Vegetable and Medicinal Plant (TOGA) Garden for 35 students from SDN Kledhokan, TK Sari Asih I, and PAUD Sari Asih, accompanied by their supervising and class teachers.

This activity was made possible through the collaboration and synergy between academics (UGM, Faculty of Biology), the Sleman Regency Government (Caturtunggal Village and Kledhokan Hamlet), the Women Farmers’ Group (KWT Rejosari), and local schools (elementary, kindergarten, and early childhood education centers). This outdoor learning activity aimed to introduce various vegetable and medicinal plants—as well as planting and harvesting methods—and also included the stocking of catfish fry.

The event was opened by the Head of Kledhokan Hamlet, Mr. Punjul Santosa, followed by remarks from the Caturtunggal Village administration—represented by Ms. Yuni Karina Wati, A.Md. The UGM community service team was led by Dr. Dra. Rr. Upiek Ngesti Wibawaning Astuti, B.Sc, DAP&E, M.Biomed, accompanied by fellow lecturer Dr. Dila Hening Windyaraini, M.Sc., and students Inaya and Arya Nurma.

Following the gardening activity, the students, accompanying teachers, and all other participants returned to the hamlet, and the event closed with a group photo. This activity supports global and national commitments to improve community well-being through the SDGs: (3) Good Health and Well-being; (4) Quality Education; (11) Sustainable Cities and Communities; (13) Climate Action; and (17) Partnerships for the Goals.

Sleman, August 7, 2026 – The Community Service (Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat/PkM) Desa Mitra team from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), conducted a Waste Sorting and Recycling Training at SD Negeri Kiyaran, Wukirsari Village, Cangkringan Sub-district, Sleman Regency. The activity is part of the 2026 Desa Mitra Community Service Program entitled “Enhancing Elementary School Students’ Capacity in Environmental Management and Integrated Agriculture.” The training involved 36 students from Grades 4, 5, and 6 and aimed to improve their knowledge and practical skills in sustainable waste management from an early age.

The event was opened by the Master of Ceremony, Sidiq Permana Putra, S.Si., M.Sc., followed by an introductory session led by the project leader, Prof. Rina Sri Kasiamdari, Ph.D., followed by a presentation entitled Organic and Inorganic Waste Sorting Training delivered by Dr. Utaminingsih, S.Si., M.Sc. During the session, students learned about different types of waste, the environmental and health impacts of open waste burning, the importance of waste segregation at the source, and the concept of a waste bank as a sustainable waste management strategy.

To reinforce the theoretical knowledge, the students participated in a hands-on waste sorting activity. They were asked to separate waste into color-coded bins red, yellow, green, and blue, donated by the PkM team to SD Negeri Kiyaran. This practical exercise enabled students to directly apply the concepts they had learned while encouraging the development of environmentally responsible habits in their daily lives.

In addition to the waste sorting training, the community service program also included a creative recycling workshop. Guided by Prof. Rina Sri Kasiamdari, Ph.D., the students transformed used plastic mineral water bottles and discarded fabric scraps into pencil holders. The participants enthusiastically followed each step of the activity and proudly completed their own creations. To conclude the session, an interactive quiz was held to review the training materials, followed by a prize presentation for students who demonstrated excellent understanding of the material and produced the most creative pencil holders.

The activity was supported by other members of the community service team, including Prof. Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, S.Si., M.App.Sc., Prof. Dr. Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si., Prof. Dra. Tuty Arisuryanti, M.Sc., Ph.D., Dr. Maryani, M.Sc., Dr. Aprilia Sufi Subiastuti, S.Si., Dr. Siti Nurbaiti, S.Si., as well as doctoral students from the Faculty of Biology, UGM Novita Yustinadiar, S.Si., M.Si., who collectively contributed to the successful implementation of the program.

As part of its commitment to promoting sustainable environmental practices, the PkM Desa Mitra team also donated a set of four color-coded waste bins and composting sacks for organic waste management to the school. The event concluded with a group photo session involving the community service team, the school principal, teachers, and all participating students.

Through this program, the organizers expect to enhance students’ environmental knowledge, practical skills, and awareness. Beyond encouraging proper waste disposal and segregation, the activities also inspire students to recycle waste into useful products by applying the principles of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle (3R). By introducing environmental education at an early age, the program contributes to shaping a generation that is more responsible and committed to environmental sustainability.

This community service initiative also supports the achievement of several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, driving the search for safer and more effective anticancer agents. Natural products continue to be an important source of bioactive compounds, with kaffir lime (Citrus hystrix D.C.) attracting growing attention due to its rich content of secondary metabolites, particularly terpenoids and steroids, which have been reported to exhibit anticancer activities.

However, the production of secondary metabolites in plants is often inconsistent. Seasonal changes, climate, and environmental conditions can influence both the quantity and composition of bioactive compounds, making it difficult to obtain uniform plant materials. To address this challenge, a research team from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), is developing a kaffir lime callus culture system as a controlled platform for secondary metabolite production. This approach offers the potential to produce bioactive compounds with greater consistency while reducing dependence on seasonal variation and cultivation conditions.

The research is led by Woro Anindito Sri Tunjung, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., together with Ferdinan Florian, Gabriela Arista Phoebe Sutato, and Grace Leilani Tumiwa, in collaboration with Sastia Prama Putri, Ph.D. from Osaka University, Japan. The study also benefits from scientific input provided by Endre Károly Kristóf, Ph.D. and Rini Arianti, Ph.D. from the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Hungary. The research takes place at the Biotechnology and Biochemistry Laboratories, Faculty of Biology UGM, using kaffir lime fruits collected from Pekutan Village, Bayan District, Purworejo Regency, Central Java.

The study begins with in vitro seed germination to obtain sterile seedlings as the source of explants. Callus cultures are subsequently induced from three different explant types, followed by evaluations of their growth characteristics and compound profiles. To stimulate secondary metabolite biosynthesis, the calli are subjected to elicitation treatment before extraction. The resulting compound profiles are then analyzed using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) to identify the secondary metabolites produced by the kaffir lime calli.

Unlike conventionally cultivated plants, callus cultures can be maintained throughout the year under controlled conditions, minimizing the effects of environmental fluctuations on metabolite production. This system provides a more consistent source of plant-derived compounds for research and represents an important step toward the development of natural product-based anticancer candidates. The findings are also expected to expand the application of plant tissue culture technology in plant biotechnology research.

This research contributes to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being by advancing plant-based sources of bioactive compounds with potential applications in health research. It also supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12: Responsible Consumption and Production by promoting a more sustainable approach to producing valuable plant metabolites through controlled callus culture systems, thereby reducing dependence on harvesting plants from natural populations.

A research team from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), has successfully characterized the genetic profile of the Golden Kamper chicken through a study funded by the Faculty of Biology Lecturer–Student Collaborative Research Grant (KDM) 2026. Using DNA barcoding based on the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene, the study revealed the close genetic relationship between Golden Kamper chickens and several Indonesian local chicken breeds. The findings provide valuable baseline genetic information to support future breeding programs and the conservation of Indonesia’s poultry genetic resources.

Indonesia is home to a rich diversity of local chicken genetic resources, with at least 33 recognized local chicken breeds that hold significant potential for sustainable poultry development. One of these is the Golden Kamper chicken, a dual-purpose breed developed by crossing Pelung Blirik roosters with Brown Layer hens. The breed was developed to combine desirable production traits while preserving the genetic potential of local poultry, making it a promising genetic resource for supporting food security and biodiversity conservation.

Despite its potential, genetic information on the Golden Kamper chicken remains limited. Genetic characterization is therefore essential to understand its genetic diversity and evolutionary relationship with other chicken breeds, providing a scientific foundation for breeding strategies and the long-term conservation of indigenous poultry genetic resources. In this study, researchers analyzed the mitochondrial COI gene to evaluate the genetic variation and phylogenetic relationship of Golden Kamper chickens with other chicken breeds. The results showed that Golden Kamper chickens are closely related to Manokwari, Maluku, and Kedu Jawa chickens, as well as the Red Jungle Fowl, the wild ancestor of modern domestic chickens. Furthermore, the COI gene exhibited relatively low genetic variation, indicating its conserved nature and highlighting its potential as a reliable molecular marker for chicken genetic characterization. The findings provide an important genetic baseline for the future development of Golden Kamper chickens and other Indonesian local chicken breeds. The genetic information generated through this study is expected to support molecular breeding programs, strengthen genetic resource conservation efforts, and serve as a reference for future research on the genetic diversity of Indonesian poultry.

This research was conducted under the Faculty of Biology Lecturer–Student Collaborative Research Grant (KDM) 2026, involving undergraduate students of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. The study also contributes to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by supporting sustainable poultry breeding for food security, and SDG 15 (Life on Land) through the conservation and sustainable utilization of Indonesia’s poultry genetic resources.

A research team from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), has investigated metabolite profiles in the leaves, callus tissues, and culture medium exudates of red okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench var. ‘Zahira IPB’). The study was led by Woro Anindito Sri Tunjung, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., together with Achmad Nadhmi Arfa, Elisabeth Kurniawati, and Ferdinan Florian. Conducted from August 2025 to May 2026, the research was funded by the 2026 Lecturer–Student Collaborative Research Grant. Experimental work was carried out at Biodiversity Research Station II, the Biotechnology Laboratory and Biochemistry Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology UGM, and Corpora Science.

Red okra was selected because it is recognized as a functional food rich in bioactive compounds, including quercetin, mucilage polysaccharides, and amino acids associated with health-promoting properties. In addition, its anthocyanin content may contribute to stronger antioxidant activity than that of conventional green okra. Despite its potential, comprehensive information on the metabolite profile of the Zahira IPB red okra variety remains limited. Moreover, metabolite composition in conventionally cultivated plants can vary in response to environmental factors such as temperature, light intensity, and nutrient availability. To minimize these sources of variation, the researchers employed in vitro tissue culture, which provides a more controlled growth environment. Using an untargeted metabolomics approach, the study characterized the detected compounds in leaves, callus tissues, and culture medium exudates to compare metabolite distribution among the different sample types.

The research began with the cultivation of okra plants to obtain explants, followed by callus induction through tissue culture, metabolite extraction, and metabolite profiling. Chemical analysis was performed using Liquid Chromatography–High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (LC–HRMS) with an untargeted metabolomics workflow. Unlike targeted analyses that focus on predefined compounds, this approach enables the comprehensive detection of a broad range of metabolites, providing an overview of the metabolite profiles present in each sample.

The findings expand current knowledge of the metabolite profile of the Zahira IPB red okra variety and provide a valuable resource for future studies in plant biotechnology and metabolomics. Beyond their scientific contribution, the results also support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) by generating scientific evidence that can facilitate the development of plant-derived pharmaceutical ingredients and health products, and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by demonstrating how biotechnology can promote the sustainable use of biological resources.

Balikpapan, July 31, 2026 – A research team from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), conducted a field survey and evaluation at the MAHAR Gama Gemilang Chicken Farm in North Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, as part of the 2026 PRIMESTEP Innovation Development Grant activities. The activity aimed to evaluate the breeding and propagation system of MAHAR Chicken final stock as a foundation for providing superior breeding stock for development in various regions of Indonesia.

The activity was led by Zuliyati Rohmah, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D.Eng., Head of the 2026 PRIMESTEP Innovation Development Grant, together with Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM and inventor of Gama Ayam. The team was welcomed by Drs. Fauzhul Idhi, Director of CV Mitra Pesona Sejahtera, the partner in the development of MAHAR Chicken, together with two field farmers, Sultan and Jibran, who manage the farm operations.

During the activity, the team recorded the population of each chicken line being developed and evaluated egg production, the breeding system, and farm management. In addition, the team reviewed the independently formulated feed used at the farm, including the composition of raw materials, the mixing process, and feed supply strategies, as an effort to improve production efficiency while maintaining chicken performance quality.

The evaluation also covered animal health and farm biosecurity. The team discussed the implementation of husbandry management, farm sanitation, disease management, and the recording system used during population development. The observations showed that health management places greater emphasis on good farming practices, biosecurity, and husbandry management as part of a sustainable production system.

According to Zuliyati Rohmah, this activity represents an important stage in ensuring that the development of MAHAR Chicken is not only oriented toward increasing the population, but is also supported by a standardized and data-based breeding system. Meanwhile, Prof. Budi Setiadi Daryono emphasized that final stock plays a strategic role in maintaining genetic quality and ensuring the sustainable availability of superior breeding stock to support the development of MAHAR Chicken in various regions, including the Nusantara Capital City area.

Through collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and CV Mitra Pesona Sejahtera, this activity is expected to further strengthen the downstream implementation of university research outputs while supporting the development of superior local chickens as a source of animal-based food for the nation. The program is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), through synergy among universities, industry, and communities in building a sustainable poultry production system.

Penajam Paser Utara, East Kalimantan, 30 July 2026 – A research team from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), conducted a field survey and strategic discussion with the Nusantara Capital Authority (OIKN) to support the development of MAHAR Chickens as an innovative superior local poultry breed aimed at strengthening animal-protein food self-sufficiency in the Nusantara Capital Region. This activity forms part of the implementation of the 2026 PRIMESTEP Innovation Development Grant, which focuses on strengthening the downstream application of research outcomes, increasing superior chicken populations, and establishing a national breeding and egg-production ecosystem.

The UGM Faculty of Biology team comprised Zuliyati Rohmah, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D.Eng., Head of the 2026 PRIMESTEP Innovation Development Grant, and Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., inventor of Gama Ayam and Dean of the UGM Faculty of Biology. The activity was also attended by Drs. Fauzhul Idhi, Director of CV Mitra Pesona Sejahtera, a strategic partner in the development of MAHAR Chickens. The company collaborates with the Nusantara Capital Authority in field-level technical management and the expansion of the MAHAR Chicken population in East Kalimantan. Representing the Nusantara Capital Authority were Dr. P. Setia Lenggono, S.Sos., M.Si., Director of Food Security; Listian Nova; and staff members of the Directorate of Food Security.

The activity began with a field visit to the MAHAR Chicken final-stock facility, which serves as a centre for developing a population of superior laying hens in the Nusantara Capital Region. During the visit, the team assessed housing conditions, husbandry management, population performance, production systems, and readiness for larger-scale development as part of the roadmap for strengthening animal-protein food security in Nusantara.

The programme continued with a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) at the Nusantara Capital Authority office. The discussion opened with a presentation by Listian Nova on the progress of the MAHAR Bahagia Chicken Programme, including programme achievements, population growth, and plans to develop MAHAR Chickens as a strategic commodity for supporting the supply of animal-protein food in the Nusantara Capital Region.

The UGM Faculty of Biology team provided recommendations based on research findings and its experience in developing superior chicken lines. The discussion covered the evaluation of egg-production performance, strategies to increase productivity through the provision of healthy feed made from locally sourced ingredients, the strengthening of breeding systems, and the development of partnership models involving universities, government institutions, and the business sector. This collaboration is expected to accelerate the establishment of an independent and sustainable laying-hen production ecosystem in the Nusantara Capital Region.

One of the primary shared objectives is to build national laying-hen production capacity that can sustainably meet the demand for eggs. In the long term, this effort is expected to reduce dependence on supplies from outside the region by strengthening local production through innovation and partnerships. In this context, MAHAR Chickens are considered a promising superior line developed through university research that can support animal-protein food security in Nusantara.

Through the synergy among the UGM Faculty of Biology, the Nusantara Capital Authority, and CV Mitra Pesona Sejahtera, the development of MAHAR Chickens is expected not only to increase the population of superior poultry but also to serve as a collaborative model integrating research, innovation, technology downstreaming, and partner empowerment in support of a resilient and sustainable food system.

This activity also contributes to the achievement of several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), namely SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) through strengthened animal-protein food production; SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) through the development of efficient and sustainable poultry-production systems; and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaboration among universities, government institutions, and industry partners in building national food self-sufficiency.

Surakarta, 26 July 2026 – The Museum of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), participated in the “Abhinawa Bhumi #2: Wijaya Jaladri Nusantara” Travelling Museum Exhibition, held from 23–26 July 2026 at Rumah Kabudayan Ndalem Djojokoesoeman, Surakarta. The event brought together dozens of museums from across Indonesia as an initiative to bring museums closer to the public through education, conservation, and the promotion of Indonesia’s cultural heritage and natural wealth.

Throughout the four-day exhibition, the event received an overwhelmingly enthusiastic response from the public. Visitor numbers increased each day, with 2,277 visitors on 23 July, 4,949 visitors on 24 July, 6,338 visitors on 25 July, and reaching 9,550 visitors on the closing day, 26 July 2026.

The UGM Museum of Biology occupied Booth No. 26, which became one of the exhibition booths with the highest level of visitor interaction. Even after the official closing of the exhibition, many visitors continued to stop by to ask questions, engage in discussions, and learn more about the museum’s collections and activities. This enthusiasm reflected the public’s growing interest in biological sciences and museums as enjoyable learning spaces.

The entire UGM Museum of Biology team actively participated in the exhibition, from preparation and visitor services to educational activities and interactive programmes. The team consisted of Head of the Museum Zuliyati Rohmah, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D. Eng., Deputy Head Dr. Utaminingsih, S.Si., M.Sc., Museum Educators F.X. Sugiyo Pranoto, S.Si., Ida Suryani, S. Ark., and Candra Apriliandi, as well as museum staff member Ryan, who worked together to provide an engaging learning experience for visitors.

At the UGM Museum of Biology booth, visitors enjoyed a variety of featured collections, including a shark taxidermy specimen, a giant clam (Tridacna sp.), red coral, and sea urchins, representing the richness of Indonesia’s marine biodiversity. Through an interactive approach, the UGM Museum of Biology sought to bring Indonesia’s marine natural heritage closer to the public, enabling people not only to recognise the nation’s extraordinary biodiversity but also to develop a sense of ownership toward these natural treasures. This sense of ownership is expected to become the foundation for increasing public awareness and participation in conserving Indonesia’s biodiversity, particularly its marine ecosystems, which are currently facing numerous threats from human activities and environmental change.

To further enhance visitor engagement, the UGM Museum of Biology also organised a Marine Biology Quiz with attractive museum merchandise as prizes, which was enthusiastically welcomed by both children and adults. In addition, visitors were invited to leave their impressions and messages on a creative Post-it guest board, creating two-way communication between the museum and the public.

As part of the exhibition programme, the UGM Museum of Biology presented an EduTalk session on Friday, 24 July 2026, at 1:30 p.m. The EduTalk focused on the Museum of Biology as a centre for education, the concept of biological evolution, and various science fun facts, all delivered in a light, engaging, and interactive manner.

The session was presented by Zuliyati Rohmah, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D. Eng., Head of the UGM Museum of Biology, together with Ida Suryani, S. Ark., Museum Educator. During the session, participants learned that museums serve not only as repositories of collections but also as learning centres that connect research, conservation, and public education. The concept of evolution was explained using authentic museum collections, accompanied by fascinating scientific facts that encouraged participants to view biology from a perspective closely connected to everyday life.

The participation of the UGM Museum of Biology in the “Abhinawa Bhumi #2” Travelling Museum Exhibition reflects the Faculty of Biology UGM’s commitment to expanding public access to science education while strengthening the role of museums as centres for lifelong learning. The programme also supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) by providing inclusive and accessible science education, SDG 14 (Life Below Water) by promoting literacy and awareness of marine biodiversity conservation, SDG 15 (Life on Land) by educating the public about the importance of biodiversity conservation as a whole, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaboration among museums and various stakeholders to expand the reach of education and conservation initiatives.