Yogyakarta, July 27, 2023 – The ASRI Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to planetary health in Kalimantan Barat, visited the Faculty of Biology, Gadjah Mada University (UGM), to hold an audience discussing potential collaborations in environmental conservation and community health enhancement. The event took place on Thursday, July 27, 2023, at the KPTU Meeting Room, Faculty of Biology, UGM.

As a pioneer in its field, the ASRI Foundation envisions a healthy, prosperous society and sustainable environment by integrating healthcare services with the conservation of high conservation value forests. Since its establishment in 2007, ASRI has actively supported the government’s efforts in preserving forests in Kalimantan Barat and has inspired the world with its conservation-based healthcare approach.

The ASRI Foundation’s flagship programs span across three main areas:

1. Healthcare: The healthcare sector’s highlight is the ASRI Clinic, a unique initiative and possibly the only one in Indonesia that accepts seedlings as payment. The clinic also provides mobile healthcare services, tuberculosis control, and eyeglasses access for the community. ASRI aims to promote public health while reinforcing forest conservation through this innovative approach.
2. Conservation: ASRI actively engages in forest conservation programs, including reforestation, deforestation monitoring, supporting forest-friendly livelihoods (sahabat hutan), promoting organic farming, implementing chainsaw buyback initiatives, and providing special support for widows involved in environmental conservation efforts.
3. Education: The ASRI Foundation actively educates the community, particularly through extracurricular activities such as ASRI Kids and ASRI Teens, conducting environmental awareness programs, study tours, Planetary Health Talks, and Planetary Health Camps.

The audience was held to discuss the Draft Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the ASRI Foundation and the Faculty of Biology, Gadjah Mada University (UGM). The collaboration aims to strengthen the aspects of the Higher Education Tri Dharma, encompassing education, research, and community service, with a focus on environmental conservation and planetary health enhancement.

The delegation from the ASRI Foundation, led by Evita Izza Dwiyanti, S.T., M.Si., the Partnership Manager, was warmly welcomed by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni, as well as Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., M.Si., the Director of the Center for Tropical Biodiversity, Faculty of Biology, UGM.

The event began with an introduction to the Faculty of Biology, UGM, followed by an intensive discussion on the implementation of collaborative activities as outlined in the MoU.

The collaboration between the ASRI Foundation and the Faculty of Biology, UGM, is expected to be a milestone in advancing planetary health and environmental conservation. With strong synergy, both organizations are committed to jointly creating a healthier and more sustainable society and environment for future generations.

The Faculty of Biology held a Public Lecture with the theme “Biodiversity Prospect, Research, and Management” on Thursday, 27 July 2023. The lecture was delivered by Prof. Kornsorn Srikulnath, Ph.D from Kasetsart University, Thailand. The Lecture was attended by students from the Masters, Doctoral Study Programs and also lecturers from the Faculty of Biology, which was held at RSA, Building A, Faculty of Biology UGM.

The event was hosted by Wildan Alfian Fahmi, S.Si, and officially opened by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. Dean of the Faculty of Biology. The Dean addressed that the public lecture is one of academic collaboration implementation in order to strengthen among university bonding, especially with Kasetrat University. Prof. Kornsorn is an expert in the field of animal development, animal conservation and genetics. He is a visiting professor at the Faculty of Biology UGM, who is currently partnering with Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc.

Prof. Kornsorn delivered the lecture topic mainly on “Animal Genomic and Bioresource Research Unit (AGB Research Unit)”, especially regarding to the research examples that had been conducted at Kasetart University, especially by the AGB Research Unit including activities of wildlife conservation research, agriculture genomics, AGB Collaboration research. The main research objects include bison (genetic monitoring), chickens (increasing gene varieties), fish, and crocodiles (determination of crocodile hybrids, as well as comparing the morphology of the Siamese with Saltwater Crocodiles).

The last session of the lecture was question and answer. The session was led by Anita Rahajeng, M.Si, M.Bio.Med.Sc., as a moderator. Students were very enthusiastic to contribute and were given opportunity to raised questions as well as to share their opinion on the lecture topic. Some important questions were recorded such as the topic about the contribution of students in the field of health and biodiversity, research related to genomics and biodiversity to the discovery of new species. It is hoped that this public lecture can strengthen collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Kasetsart University Thailand.

As a continuation of the implementation of the Assessment for Professional Biodiversity Curator Certification, which was held on May 11, 2023, the Faculty of Biology UGM conducted the second Certification Assessment for the field of Microbial Diversity on July 25, 2023. This activity was conducted as one of the preparation steps for the establishment of a new study program, namely the Biodiversity Curator Education Study Program.

Five faculty members from the Microbiology Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology UGM were assessed through the Portfolio/Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) scheme. They are Dr. rer. nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, S.Si., M.Biotech., Dr. Endah Retnaningrum, S.Si., M.Eng., Dr. Miftahul Ilmi, S.Si., M.Si., Sari Darmasiwi, S.Si., M.Biotech., Ph.D., and Dr. Aprilia Sufi Subiastuti, S.Si.

This assessment was conducted by Ahmed Abd El-Wahed, BVSc, MVSc, Ph.D., and Prof. Dr. med. vet. Uwe Truyen, Microbiology expert from The Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Germany. During the implementation, they were accompanied by Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc., as the Vice Dean of Academic and Student Affairs, and Rina Sri Kasiamdari, S.Si., Ph.D., as the Head of the Biodiversity Curator Education Study Program.

Based on the portfolio presentation and discussions held, all five participants were declared successful and received the professional certification for microbial diversity curators. The certificate handover was conducted by both assessors to the five participants, accompanied by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi S. Daryono, M.Agr.Sc, along with the Deputy Dean of Academic and Student Affairs, and the Deputy Dean of Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni. It is hoped that the implementation of this certification test will support the establishment process of the Biodiversity Curator Professional Education Study Program at the UGM Faculty of Biology, with competent and internationally certified lecturers.

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – July 26, 2023

The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) successfully hosted the third lecture series as part of the 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development. The highly anticipated virtual event took place on Wednesday, July 26, 2023. The lecture series, centered around the theme of “Bioprospecting & Biotechnology Business,” featured esteemed speaker Max Van ‘t Hof, Ph.D., a Venture Development Associate at Nordic BioVentures.

This installment of the lecture series witnessed an enthusiastic gathering of 47 online participants from various corners of the globe, all eager to explore the critical domains of bioprospecting and biotechnology business, both of which play pivotal roles in the sustainable development of tropical biodiversity.

The engaging session commenced with an interactive icebreaker, powered by Mentimeter, to foster a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere for all attendees. Following the introduction, Max Van ‘t Hof shared insights into his groundbreaking work and experiences in the field.

The first hour of the lecture delved into the captivating world of bioprospecting, where attendees were enlightened about the exploration of biodiversity-rich regions for valuable biological resources, addressing the challenges and ethical considerations surrounding this practice.

In the subsequent hour, the focus shifted to biotechnology business. Max Van ‘t Hof captivated the audience with his in-depth knowledge of venture development in the biotechnology sector. Attendees gained valuable insights into the commercial aspects of biotechnology, the opportunities it presents, and its role in fostering sustainable practices.

The lecture series was skillfully moderated by Matin Nuhamunada, a dedicated teaching staff member at the Faculty of Biology, UGM. Matin’s insightful inquiries and thoughtful moderation added depth and context to the discussions.

“We are thrilled to have hosted the third lecture series of our 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development,” said Dr. Nur Indah Septriani, Chairwoman of the Summer Course. “The topics of bioprospecting and biotechnology business are of utmost importance in today’s world, where the preservation of biodiversity and sustainable development are paramount. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Max Van ‘t Hof for sharing his expertise, and to all the participants who made this virtual event a grand success.”

The 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development continues to inspire and enlighten participants, bridging the gap between academia and real-world applications in safeguarding our planet’s precious resources.

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – July 25, 2023: The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) continues to drive environmental awareness and global cooperation through the highly anticipated 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development. In a seamless transition to virtual engagement, the second lecture series delved into the theme “Making Chemistry More Sustainable,” captivating a diverse audience of environmental enthusiasts, scholars, and researchers.

Hosted by the Faculty of Biology, UGM, the virtual lecture took place on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, providing a unique opportunity for attendees to explore groundbreaking approaches to sustainability within the realm of chemistry.

The esteemed speakers for this enriching session were Professor Sir Martyn Poliakoff CBE FRS FREng and Professor Michael W George, both from Nottingham University. Professor Sir Martyn Poliakoff is an eminent figure whose academic journey began at King’s College, Cambridge, where he obtained his B.A. in 1969 and Ph.D. in 1973. He pursued his research on the Matrix Isolation of Large Molecules. In 1972, he was appointed as a Research/Senior Research Officer in the Department of Inorganic Chemistry at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne. His expertise and contributions have significantly influenced the field of chemistry.

Professor Michael W George, another esteemed speaker, completed his B.Sc. and Ph.D. at the University of Nottingham in 1987 and 1990, respectively. Currently serving as the Deputy Head of School, he was previously the Vice-Provost Research & Knowledge Exchange at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (2014-16). His pioneering research has been instrumental in advancing sustainable practices in chemistry.

The engaging session was skillfully moderated by Dr. Miftahul Ilmi from the Faculty of Biology, UGM, who ensured an insightful exchange of ideas and perspectives among the speakers and participants.

The second lecture series attracted a diverse and enthusiastic audience of 52 online participants, comprising students, academics, and professionals passionate about fostering sustainability in the field of chemistry.

The 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development remains committed to providing a platform for cutting-edge discussions, knowledge-sharing, and global collaboration. Participants from various corners of the world can engage virtually, breaking down geographical barriers and strengthening the global network of sustainability advocates.

As the course progresses, participants eagerly anticipate more enriching lecture series, workshops, and interactive sessions, reinforcing the Faculty of Biology, UGM’s dedication to promoting sustainable practices and biodiversity conservation.

Yogyakarta, July 24, 2023 – Delegates from the Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand, conducted a visit to the Faculty of Biology, Gadjah Mada University (UGM) to strengthen cooperation and collaboration in the fields of academics and research. The delegation from Kasetsart University, consisting of Professor Kornsorn Srikulnath, Ph.D., and Thitipong Panthum, M.Sc., Ph.D. (cand.), was warmly welcomed by officials and lecturers of UGM’s Faculty of Biology at the KPTU meeting room.

The welcoming remarks for the visit were delivered at the KPTU meeting room, Faculty of Biology, UGM, by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., the Dean of UGM’s Faculty of Biology, Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc., the Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni, Dr. Endah Retnaningrum, M.Eng, the Head of the Doctoral Program, Nur Indah Septriani, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., and Dr. Abdul Rahman Siregar, M.Biotech., from the Office of International Affairs, as well as Sari Darmasiwi, S.Si., M.Biotech., Ph.D., a faculty member of UGM’s Faculty of Biology, who is also an alumnus of Kasetsart University.

The visit commenced with a comprehensive presentation of UGM’s Faculty of Biology’s profile delivered by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni Affairs of UGM’s Faculty of Biology.The purpose of this visit was to strengthen cooperation between the two institutions in the areas of academics and research, as well as to facilitate the exchange of knowledge among biologists from both countries. As part of their agenda, Professor Kornsorn Srikulnath and Thitipong Panthum are planning to hold several joint lecture programs on fascinating topics, including animal genomics and biosource for food security and biodiversity, enhancing biodiversity and genetic diversity through the chicken bioresource, wildlife genomics for conservation management, utilizing catfish as a bioresource for food production and breeding programs, and exploring the potential for research collaboration through laboratory visits.

Professor Kornsorn Srikulnath, a renowned expert in animal genetics, expressed his delight at the warm reception from UGM’s Faculty of Biology and conveyed his hope to expand cooperation with this prestigious institution. He also expressed his intention to establish closer partnerships in biodiversity research, which can bring significant benefits to both nations.

Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of UGM’s Faculty of Biology, expressed high appreciation for the visit and reaffirmed the faculty’s commitment to actively contribute to biodiversity conservation and the advancement of scientific knowledge in enhancing global environmental resilience.

Professor Kornsorn Srikulnath and Thitipong Panthum are scheduled to stay in Yogyakarta until August 5, 2023, allowing ample time for collaboration with academics and researchers at UGM’s Faculty of Biology. It is hoped that this visit will yield substantial benefits for both parties and contribute to further solidifying UGM’s Faculty of Biology as a leading center for research and education in biology at the international level.

On Monday, 24 July 2023 Faculty of Biology received a visit from Dr. Ahmed Abd El Wahed and Prof. Uwe Truyen from The Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, University of Leipzig, Germany. The visit was received at the Leadership Meeting Room, Faculty of Biology, by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation and Alumni, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, S.Sc., M.Sc., Head of Office of International Affairs, Faculty of Biology, Dr.rer.nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, S.Sc., M.Biotech, and Nur Indah Septriani, S.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D.

The visit began with an introduction to Faculty of Biology and Universitas Gadjah Mada in general by the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation and Alumni, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc. The presentation was related to the history of the Faculty of Biology, achievements, study programs offered, facilities, and collaborations that have been established between the Faculty of Biology UGM and various institutions and companies also universities around the world.

Dr. Ahmed and Prof. Truyen then gave a presentation regarding the University of Leipzig, especially the Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health. They explained the profile of the university in general to the curriculum offered especially at the Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health. Dr. Ahmed also explained the importance of collaboration and the realization of this collaboration in terms of research. Leipzig itself has collaborated with various universities in the world, especially on the African continent, he calls it the Triangle Collaboration. Collaboration with Indonesia, especially Universitas Gadjah Mada and Faculty of Biology is also a good opportunity to further explore potential research collaborations that can be beneficial in the future. One form of this collaboration is a research tool grant from the University of Leipzig which was handed over to the Microbiology Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology in the form of the Mobile Suitcase Lab, an innovative tool that enables easy research and research in the field.

Visit agenda of Dr. Ahmed and Prof. Truyen to the Faculty of Biology as well as gave a public lecture which was held in the series of The 6th International Summer Course at the Faculty of Biology with the theme of the public lecture “One Health and Sustainable Development in The Anthropocene and Climate Changes”. It is hoped that the collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and the University of Leipzig, especially The Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health, can produce research and educational collaborations that can benefit the wider community.

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – July 24, 2023: The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) proudly inaugurates the 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development, a platform aimed at promoting knowledge sharing and collaboration among experts and students from around the world. The series of lectures commenced on Monday, July 24, 2023, in a hybrid format, featuring eminent speakers from the Libyan Academy for Postgraduate Studies and Leipzig University.

The first lecture series of the summer course was centered around the theme “One Health and Sustainable Development in the Anthropocene and Climate Change,” addressing critical issues at the nexus of human, animal, and environmental health, while emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable practices in the face of the Anthropocene era and climate change challenges.

The esteemed speakers for this inaugural session were Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mostafa Mohamed Omar Abdoarrahem – Libyan Academy for Postgraduate Studies and Ahmed Abd El Wahed, BVSc, MVSc, Ph.D. – Leipzig University. Both speakers brought their profound expertise and extensive research to enlighten the audience about the interconnections between health, biodiversity, and environmental conservation. The attendees were enriched with novel insights into the complex dynamics of One Health and its significance in achieving sustainable development goals. The 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development utilized a hybrid format, allowing participants to attend either in-person at Classroom 1, Building B, Faculty of Biology, UGM, or virtually from any corner of the globe. The course has taken advantage of modern technology to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for attendees worldwide.

The first lecture series witnessed an impressive turnout, with 53 enthusiastic participants joining online and 16 scholars engaging in-person. The diversity and active participation of attendees added to the dynamism of the discussion, fostering international collaboration in the pursuit of sustainable solutions. Over the upcoming weeks, the 6th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development will continue to host various captivating lecture series, workshops, and interactive sessions led by renowned experts and academics. Participants will explore multifaceted topics related to tropical biodiversity conservation, ecological balance, and sustainable development practices. The Faculty of Biology, UGM, extends its gratitude to the distinguished speakers and participants for contributing to the success of this lecture series. Their enthusiasm and commitment to knowledge exchange lay the groundwork for a brighter, sustainable future.

Friday, July 21^st 2023, Universitas Gadjah Mada held a Workshop on SDGs for Internal Capacity Development: UGM Towards a Sustainable Campus at the Lotus Ballroom, Artotel Suites Bianti, Yogyakarta. The event was attended by representatives from various UGM working units including from Faculty of Biology represented by Mukhlis Jamal Musa Holle, S.Sc., M.Env.Sc., D.Phil. The event began with remarks by the Vice Chancellor for Education and Teaching Universitas Gadjah Mada, Prof. Dr. Wening Udasmoro, S.S., M. Hum., DEA. Prof. Wening explained the importance of the contribution of universities and their academic community in realizing the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) which have been promoted by the United Nations since 2015. Anticipation needs to be done to ensure that life in the future will avoid crises including the food crisis, extreme climate change and so on. UGM in the management of the SDGs is also got 2^nd ranked in Indonesia and will continue to be developed. Prof. Wening also explained the importance of active data collection and publication to media so that activities carried out at UGM can be exposed to the wider community.

Further remarks were given by the Head of Quality and Reputation Assurance of Universitas Gadjah Mada, Dr. L. Hartanto Nugroho. He explained that contributions for SDGs can be made in small ways and small changes can have a big impact. A simple example in terms of segregating waste in a university environment, it must be carried out systematically and massively and involve all components and the academic community at the university.

The workshop continued with a general presentation by Prof. Dr. Puji Astuti, S.Si., M.Sc., Apt. and Ir. Sentagi Sesotya Utami, St., M.Sc., Ph.D. They explained that the most important aspects of the 17 SDGs are the environment and human sustainability. University ranking in terms of SDGs is not the main thing to achieve, but the ranking is a form of measurement for achievements or activities that have been carried out. UGM also supports sustainability in university governance from the aspects of ecosystems and the environment as well as human sustainability. This can be seen in the policies and regulations issued by UGM. The principles of sustainability or campus sustainability applied at UGM include energy conservation, waste management, water conservation, and eco-friendly transportation. In addition, the achievements of the activities carried out need to be balanced with massive publications so that they can be heard outside the university.

The workshop continued with Forum Group Discussions (FGDs) where participants were divided into 4 categories: Medicines, Agro and Life Science, Social Science, and Art and Humanities. Discussions focused on implementing the SDGs in their respective work units, SWOT analysis, plans for follow-up activities and plans for publication of SDGs achievements. In the discussion, representatives of the Faculty of Biology who included in Agro and Life Science category explained what activities had taken place at the Faculty of Biology and presentation ideas regarding the implementation of SDG No. 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG No. 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Some of the components of the discussion include how programs play a role in overcoming food insecurity for the academic community and the general public, interventions for dealing with food insecurity, publication of sustainability reports, waste management, to how each work unit can represent research or activities carried out at the work unit level as part of the SDGs.

The workshop ended with closing and a reminder of how important everyone’s role is in realizing the SDGs, especially at the university level. It is hoped that this activity can be a trigger for the implementation of the SDGs and better publications at Universitas Gadjah Mada.

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC) through UNODC’s Global Program on Crimes that Affect the Environment in collaboration with TRACE Wildlife Forensics Network will conduct an analysis for Wildlife Forensics where the team invites Laos, Indonesia and Malaysia to assess forensic capacity in the area. The results will be used to support the improvement of Wildlife forensic capabilities and the improvement of these wildlife forensic services. On Monday, 17 July 2023, at the KPTU Meeting Room of Faculty of Biology UGM, UNODC and TRACE representatives visited Faculty of Biology UGM to discuss condition and potential for Wildlife Forensics in Indonesia. The meeting was attended by Vice Dean of Faculty of Biology UGM for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Head of Office of International Affairs, Faculty of Biology UGM, Dr.rer.nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, S.Si., M.Biotech, and Lecturer from the Animal Systematics Laboratory, Donan Satria Yudha, S.Si., M.Sc., and Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., Kelly Morgan as TRACE Manager for Southeast Asia Program, Amanda Lightson as UNODC Technical Officer in Sabah, Malaysia, and Dwi W. Adhiasto, Consultant for Wildlife Conservation and Criminal Justice.

The meeting began with an opening and a brief introduction to the Faculty of Biology by the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni Affairs. The introduction is about history, facilities, and focus of education at Faculty of Biology UGM.

The meeting was then followed by a presentation by Donan Satria Yudha, S.Si., M.Sc. which explains Wildlife Forensics, especially Anatomy and Forensic Morphology. The Faculty of Biology has an Animal Systematics Laboratory and a Biology Museum which has collections of vertebrate fauna skeletons that can be used to support forensic anatomy and morphology. Not only skeletons, but also taxidermy collections of various vertebrate fauna species. He also explained activities related to Wildlife Forensics that have been carried out including Capacity Building such as Integrated Training on Handling Wildlife Circulation in the Maluku Islands, Training and Technical Guidance for Collection and Preservation of Anatomical and Morphological Samples for Research. The Capacity Building involved various parties from the Regional Police and Local Resorts. District Court and the Attorney General’s Office, to institutions that support conservation. He has also been involved and collaborated with the Police several times regarding the identification of protected wild animals including Jakarta National Police’s Criminal Investigation Unit, Central Java Regional Police’s Criminal Investigation Directorate and the Bantul District Prosecutor’s Office, to become an expert witness in trials at the Bantul District Court regarding wildlife trade.

Next, Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono explained Wildlife Forensics especially for Wildlife DNA Forensics. Capacity Building related to collection techniques and preservation of confiscated samples for DNA analysis which was attended by forest rangers, NGOs and various related institutions. The training was conducted so that staff in the field have the ability to handle confiscated samples in the field before they are sent to the laboratory. This aims to minimize contamination and degradation of DNA material. Dr. Sendi also explained that many confiscated components had been identified based on their Forensics DNA. He worked closely with the Police to identify samples in the form of animal bones, tails, fingers and nails. Dr. Sendi also explained the problems of field staff who had difficulty identifying species which could lead to misidentification, so a guide was made to minimize the misidentification errors. Another problem is the limited tools such as PCR in the Animal Systematics laboratory for identification of DNA samples so that the investigation and identification process cannot be carried out quickly. This tool is an important part because forensic needs are very immediate, confidential, and minimal contamination, and there is no standard animal identification protocol.

After the discussion and presentation, representatives from TRACE and UNODC visited the Animal Systematics Laboratory at the Faculty of Biology to see the skeletal coccyx and taxidermy of the vertebrate fauna there.

This meeting is an opportunity for good cooperation between Faculty of Biology and UNODC and related institutions that focus on wildlife conservation and forensics. It is hoped that this meeting will be useful for the development of Wildlife Forensics in Indonesia.