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Celebrating 41 Years of Dedication: Retirement Seminar for Prof. Dr. Suwarno Hadisusanto

Tak Berkategori Monday, 18 November 2024

Yogyakarta, November 16, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), hosted a Retirement Seminar titled “Revealing the Transformative Power of Indonesia’s Inland Waters” at the Faculty of Biology  Auditorium. This event marked the retirement of Prof. Dr. Suwarno Hadisusanto, S.U., after 41 years of dedicated service as a lecturer. The seminar also coincided with Prof. Suwarno’s 70th birthday, making it a truly special occasion.


The seminar featured 13 distinguished speakers, all former students of Prof. Suwarno, representing various universities and research institutions. More than 170 participants from diverse backgrounds attended the event.

The opening remarks were delivered by the Chair of the Organizing Committee, Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Andhika Puspito Nugroho, S.Si., M.Si., who expressed deep gratitude for Prof. Suwarno’s dedication. “Prof. Suwarno has given us so much. We extend our heartfelt thanks and profound appreciation for his remarkable contributions,” he said.

The Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi S. Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., officially opened the event, stating, “The essence of this event is to honor Prof. Suwarno and convey our deepest gratitude, particularly from the Faculty of Biology UGM, for his dedication, commitment, and passion for his alma mater and the advancement of science.”

Following the remarks, attendees participated in a group photo session and were introduced to the new Biodiversity Curator Program—an innovative initiative supporting biodiversity conservation in Indonesia.

The seminar was divided into four sessions, each highlighting various aspects of Indonesia’s inland water potential and management challenges:

Session 1

Moderator: Siti Nurleily Marliana, Ph.D.

  1. Prof. Dr. Suwarno Hadisusanto, S.U. – The Variations and Multifunctions of Inland Waters
  2. Prof. Dr. Tri Retnaningsih Soeprobowati, M.App.Sc. (Universitas Diponegoro) – Paleolimnology for Sustainable Lake Management
  3. Prof. Dr. Agatha Sih Piranti, M.Sc. (Universitas Jenderal Soedirma) – Cultural Eutrophication of Lakes/Reservoirs and Mitigation Efforts
  4. Prof. Dr. Suhestri Suryaningsih, M.Si. (Universitas Jenderal Soedirman) – The Role of Watersheds in Supporting River and Lake/Reservoir Fish Populations

Session 2

Moderator: Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Andhika Puspito Nugroho, S.Si., M.Si.

  1. Dr. Ir. Sri Puji Saraswati, DIC., M.Sc. (UGM) – Eco-Hydrology of Aquatic Communities Amid Infrastructure Development
  2. Dr. Puguh Sujarta, S.Si., M.Si. (Universitas Cenderawasih) – Shallow Marine Conservation Culture
  3. Dr. Ervina Indrayani, S.Si., M.Si. (Universitas Cenderawasih) – Lake Sentani: Uniqueness and Richness of Its Biological Resources

Session 3

Moderator: Mukhlish Jamal Musa Holle, S.Si., M.Env.Sc., D.Phil.

  1. Dr. Ike Nurjuwita Nayasilana, S.Si., M.Si. (Universitas Sebelas Mare) – Water Conservation and Wildlife
  2. Dr. Susintowati, S.Si., M.Si. (Universitas 17 August 1945) – Serious Threats to Coastal Communities
  3. Dr. Tatag Bagus Putra Prakarsa, S.Si., M.Sc. (Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta) – Underground Waters: Supporting Life for Cave-Dwelling Bats

Session 4

Moderator: Dr. Rury Eprilurahman, M.Sc.

  1. Dwinda Mariska Putri, S.Si., M.Sc. (National Research and Innovation Agency) – Vertical Distribution of Zooplankton in Lake Laut Tawar
  2. Heni Wahyu Sartika, S.Si., M.Sc. (UGM) – Belik River as a Flowing Water Management Model During the COVID-19 Pandemic
  3. Maria Eva Kristiyani, S.Si., M.Sc. (De Britto College High School) – Coastal Waters for Aquaculture
  4. Carolina A. Inlandia, S.Si., M.Sc. (Environmental Consultant) – Water Pollution Potential and Management of Tambakboyo Reservoir, Sleman
To conclude the event, Prof. Suwarno generously distributed 70 copies of his book, “Kantong Terakhir Anak Adalah Amanah Tuhan” to participants.

The attendees extended their prayers and best wishes to Prof. Dr. Suwarno Hadisusanto, S.U., for his extraordinary dedication over the past 41 years. They wished him health, happiness, and blessings in his retirement. His legacy of knowledge and inspiration is expected to drive progress for future generations.

Thank you, Prof. Suwarno, for being a role model for us all.

Faculty of Biology UGM Student Research Team Received Silver Medal Award at the 3rd International Conference of Biological Science (ICoBioS) 2024 at Brawijaya University

Tak Berkategori Thursday, 10 October 2024

A team of students from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, made another brilliant achievement by winning the Silver Medal in the prestigious 3rd International Conference of Biological Science (ICoBioS) 2024. The achievement was in line with the theme “Recent Updates in Bioinformatics, Synthetic Biology, and Nanobio Science for a Better Future” held at Brawijaya University, Malang, on September 27-28, 2024. This achievement emphasizes UGM’s position in the global scientific arena, especially in innovation and the latest advances in biological science. The team from the Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada, consisting of Thoriq Abdul Halim, Tiara Putria Judith, and Salfa Athallah Agtari Nabillah, students of class 2021 under the guidance of Mrs. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., presented a research entitled “Comparative Analysis of DNA Barcodes Based on Nuclear and Chloroplast Genes for Phylogenetic Reconstruction of Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) in Java Island.”


In its presentation, the team discussed the importance of sugarcane (S. officinarum L.) production, which contributes 80% to global sugar production. Although Java Island supplies 61% of national production, Indonesia only produced 2.23 million tons of sugar in 2019, while imports reached 5.46 million tons in 2021, mostly from Thailand. The low yield of sugarcane is caused by the narrowing of genetic diversity due to domestication. Challenged by the complexity of the genome and the difficulty in distinguishing morphological characters, this team used DNA barcoding techniques to analyze genetic variation in sugarcane nucleus and chloroplast DNA. This research aims to identify intra- and interspecific genetic variation among sugarcane cultivars as an effort to improve the identification of superior varieties, agricultural productivity and food security in Indonesia.

The theme and objectives of this research are in line with UGM’s SDGs, particularly in supporting point 2 on ending hunger and improving food security, and point 12 which focuses on sustainable production and consumption, through efforts to increase sugarcane productivity and reduce dependence on sugar imports in Indonesia.

Wildan Fadhilah Kurnia Embarks on Transformative Semester Abroad at James Cook University, Australia

Tak Berkategori Wednesday, 2 October 2024

Wildan Fadhilah Kurnia, a dedicated student from IUP batch 2021, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), has joined a prestigious six-month student mobility program at James Cook University (JCU) in Australia. This program is designed to provide students with invaluable international experience and the opportunity to study at one of the world’s leading universities in Marine Biology.


So far, Wildan has found his experience at JCU to be nothing short of exceptional. “The research conducted here is renowned globally across various fields, particularly marine biology, aquaculture, and paleontology,” he shared. Enrolled in courses from the Marine Biology, Aquaculture, and Earth and Environmental Sciences faculties, he has been impressed by JCU’s top-of-the-line research facilities and highly interactive classes that encourage critical thinking.

Wildan’s curriculum has provided him with hands-on fieldwork opportunities, allowing him to engage directly with the subject matter. He spent time at the Flinders River Formation, searching for fossils and studying the stratigraphy of geological formations. Additionally, he visited various aquaculture facilities, gaining firsthand insight into the day-to-day operations and the diverse species cultivated within the industry.

A highlight of his program has been a visit to JCU’s Orpheus Island Research Station, where he participated in real-time analysis of the coral reefs surrounding the island. “Each subject has its challenges, but I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my studies here and have learned a tremendous amount,” Wildan noted.
In addition to his coursework, Wildan is collaborating with Dr. Espen Knutsen, Senior Scientist and Curator of Paleontology at the Queensland Museum in Townsville, to further his ongoing thesis on fossils discovered in underwater caves.

Wildan’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of international education and research collaboration. He looks forward to applying his experiences and insights to his future endeavors. [Aulia]

Graduation for IV Period Undergraduate Program for Academic Year 2023/2024

News ReleaseStudent ActivitiesTak Berkategori Friday, 30 August 2024

Wednesday, 28 August 2024 The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, held a Graduation Ceremony for the Undergraduate Program 2023/2024 period IV at the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology. This ceremony was attended by 146 graduates, a new record for the highest number of graduates in the history of the Faculty of Biology graduation ceremony. The ceremony was opened at 01.15 p.m. by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology Prof. Dr. Budi Setyadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. and continued singing Indonesia Raya, Hymne Gadjah Mada, and Mars Faculty of Biology.


Then, there is a report of graduates by the Head of Undergraduate Study Program by Mr. Sukirno, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. In his report he said that there were 146 graduates in this period with the academic title Sarjana sains or Bachelor of Science with Honours. Then, the highest GPA was obtained by Nindi Putri Dwi Wardani, S.Si. with a value 3,94. The shortest length of study was obtained by Fadhillah Fikriyanti Putri, S.Si. with 3 years 4 months 5 days.

Next, there is a reading of the graduates graduation results. Furthermore, there was a speech by representatives of the graduates Nindi Putri Dwi Wardani, S.Si.. In her speech, she congratulated her fellow graduates and encouraged them not to be afraid to dream big. Following her speech, there was a speech from the parent representative, the father of the graduate Nindi Putri Dwi Wardani, S.Si.. He expressed his gratitude to the faculty members and the entire academic community for their support throughout the learning process.

The continued with pin awarding as a sign of membership in the Faculty of Biology Family by the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., represented by graduates Wildan Hilmi Azharul Hakim, S.Si. and Rania Nura Anindhita, B.Sc.(Hons) followed by other graduates. Following that was a speech by the Dean, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. In his address, he mentioned that graduates of UGM’s Biology program have the opportunity to apply for civil servant positions in various ministries. He concluded his speech by thanking the committee and wished the graduates continued success in their future endeavors.

Towards the end of the event, there was the presentation of a memento from the graduates, represented by Fathur Syahrian Ramadhani, S.Si, to the Dean. The event concluded with a prayer and photo session. After the graduation ceremony, the Biology Student Association (KMFB) organized a celebratory parade in front of the Tropical Biology Auditorium, accompanied by Double Helix, and enlivened by various study groups and student organizations.

Japanese Exchange Student Shares Unique Academic Journey at Faculty of Biology UGM

News ReleaseTak Berkategori Wednesday, 21 August 2024

Yogyakarta, August 21, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is honored to host Kantaro Okada, an exchange student from Japan whose academic journey reflects a deep commitment to environmental sustainability and global learning. Kantaro’s background in International Relations and his passion for environmental science have motivated him to participate in the student exchange program at UGM, where he is currently pursuing studies in Biology and Environmental Science.


Kantaro recognizes the challenges that come with living in Yogyakarta, including language barriers and cultural differences. However, he views these challenges as opportunities for growth, which have made him more open-minded and eager to learn. His ability to adapt and embrace a new environment is a testament to the resilience often seen in exchange students.

Supported by his family, Kantaro expressed gratitude for the unwavering encouragement from his father, mother, and younger brother. Their support has been instrumental in his decision to pursue studies abroad, reinforcing the importance of family in educational endeavors.

Kantaro’s hobbies, including watching Western movies and dramas and listening to Western music, have not only provided leisure but have also enhanced his English language skills. These interests have contributed to his broader understanding of different cultures, aiding his adjustment to life in Yogyakarta.

What sets Kantaro apart is his unconventional academic path. Despite majoring in International Relations in Toyo University Japan, his decision to join the Faculty of Biology at UGM is driven by a personal mission to combat deforestation. His father owns a furniture shop that uses Indonesian trees, which has made Kantaro acutely aware of the environmental impact of deforestation. Determined to contribute to nature conservation, Kantaro is pursuing biology to gain a deeper understanding of natural systems and explore sustainable practices.

During his time at UGM, Kantaro has expressed a particular interest in courses on Plant Biosystematics and Plant Structure and Secretory Tissue Products. He aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of biological sciences from a global perspective, which will enable him to make informed decisions that align with environmental sustainability.

Kantaro Okada’s academic journey at UGM aligns with several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:

  • SDG 4: Quality Education – Kantaro’s pursuit of interdisciplinary education exemplifies the importance of providing quality education that fosters global citizenship and cross-cultural understanding.
  • SDG 13: Climate Action – His commitment to understanding and mitigating the effects of deforestation reflects the urgent need for climate action and sustainable environmental practices.
  • SDG 15: Life on Land – By focusing on plant biosystematics and conservation, Kantaro contributes to the sustainable management of forests and the preservation of terrestrial ecosystems.

    • Kantaro’s dedication to education and environmental conservation serves as an inspiration to his peers and underscores the critical role that international exchange programs play in advancing the SDGs. His journey highlights the importance of global learning and interdisciplinary approaches in addressing pressing environmental challenges.

    General Lecture and Strengthening Research Collaboration with Euglena Co. Ltd Japan

    News ReleaseTak Berkategori Wednesday, 24 July 2024

    Yogyakarta, Indonesia – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), held a general lecture delivered by Dr. Kengo Suzuki, Co-Founder and Head of Research at Euglena Co. Ltd., Japan. The lecture, titled “Research and Development on the Functional Components Derived from Microalgae,” was opened by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., with Dr. Eng. Thoriq Teja Samudra, M.Sc. as the moderator. It was attended by lecturers and students from UGM, Sanata Dharma University, Atmajaya University, and Ahmad Dahlan University.


    The lecture provided in-depth insights into Euglena sp. research, covering strain isolation, purification, mass cultivation, and harvesting processes. Known for its resilience in low pH conditions, Euglena sp. holds significant potential for large-scale applications such as CO2 capture, phytoremediation, food supplements, animal feed, fuel, and fertilizers. Since 2018, Euglena Co. Ltd. has collaborated with the Faculty of Biology UGM to advance research on Euglena sp. isolation and cultivation in Indonesia, including genetic modification through polyploidization by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., and his team. The Faculty, along with researchers from the PUI-PT Mikroalga UGM led by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., has also discovered a local Euglena sp. strain ready for mass cultivation.

    During their visit, the Euglena Co. Ltd delegation visited UGM’s microalgae cultivation facilities in Nogotirto and Minggir. Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs, emphasized the importance of strengthening research partnerships. The visit also included researchers from PT Jawa Power, who are interested in collaborating on microalgae research for fuel and CO2 capture with Euglena Co. Ltd and the Faculty of Biology UGM.

    This collaboration aligns with the Faculty of Biology UGM’s commitment to sustainable development goals. The Faculty is dedicated not only to advancing science and technology but also to applying sustainability principles in all aspects of research and education. This partnership aims to produce innovations with positive impacts on the environment and society. The Faculty of Biology UGM strives to become a leading center in microalgae research, integrating scientific knowledge with sustainable practices for a better future. This initiative also supports Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 4 (Quality Education), and 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), reflecting the Faculty’s dedication to health, quality education, and access to clean energy.

    The 7th National Seminar on Tropical Biology (SNBT) at the Faculty of Biology, UGM: Enhancing Collaboration in Tropical Biodiversity Exploration with AI Technology and Open Science

    Tak Berkategori Sunday, 23 July 2023

     

    Yogyakarta, July 22, 2023 – On Saturday, July 22, 2023, the Faculty of Biology at Gadjah Mada University (UGM) successfully held the 7th  National Seminar on Tropical Biology (SNBT) with the theme “Open Science and AI Technology in Tropical Biodiversity Exploration.” The event took place at the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology, UGM, and was attended by 172 participants from various backgrounds and institutions.

    In the opening remarks, Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., M.Si., as the Chairperson of the 7th  SNBT Committee, reported that the event successfully attracted participants from 75 different institutions, including universities, industries, private sectors, and government agencies. The participants came from diverse backgrounds, ranging from students, lecturers, researchers, conservation practitioners, to experts in the field of tropical biology. Such extensive attendance reflects the high interest and concern for tropical biodiversity issues.

    The event was also enriched by the presence of three keynote speakers. Prof. Dr. Ir. H. Hadi Sukadi Alikodra, M.S. from IPB University, Dr. Muhammad Yopan from Amazon Web Services, and Dra. Tuty Arisuryanti, M.Sc., Ph.D. from the Faculty of Biology, UGM, shared their insights and knowledge on the importance of implementing Open Science and AI Technology in tropical biodiversity exploration.

    The event commenced with a speech by Dr. Ririn Tri Nurhayati, S.IP., M.Si., M.A., as the Caretaker of the Subdirectorate of Research Programs, Directorate of Research, UGM. “The theme of this seminar aligns with the research priorities at UGM, which aim to develop technology that supports the knowledge in conserving biodiversity. With the existence of this forum, it is hoped to provide a platform for researchers and stakeholders to discuss and formulate relevant policies for biodiversity in Indonesia,” expressed Dr. Ririn.

    The next address was given by Prof. Dr. Satyawan Pudyatmoko, S.Hut., M.Sc., the Director General of KSDAE-Ministry of Environment and Forestry, who appreciated the efforts of the Faculty of Biology, UGM, in organizing this seminar. This was followed by a speech by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, UGM, who passionately expressed his hope that the seminar would broaden perspectives and enhance collaboration to collectively preserve biodiversity in Indonesia.

    The plenary session became the main highlight of the event, guided by Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., with Prof. Dr. Ir. H. Hadi Sukadi Alikodra, M.S., a Professor of Natural Resource Conservation and Wildlife Management from the Faculty of Forestry and Environment at IPB University, delivering an inspirational talk on “The Future of Humanity and Biodiversity.” Following that, Dra. Tuty Arisuryanti, M.Sc., Ph.D., the Head of the Genetics and Breeding Laboratory at the Faculty of Biology, UGM, discussed the importance of “Open Science for Accelerating Tropical Biodiversity Discovery.” Lastly, Dr. Muhammad Yopan, the Government Account Lead at Amazon Web Services, presented the potential of utilizing AI and Cloud Computing for “Biodiversity Exploration.”

     

    Parallel sessions provided a platform for presenters to discuss topics related to Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Tropical Biodiversity Exploration, Bioprospecting, Biomedicine, Tropical Biofunctionalities, Genetics and Molecular Biology, as well as Biosystematics and Evolution, which were engagingly discussed by experts and researchers in their respective fields.

    The event concluded with excitement through the distribution of door prizes for the best questions and awards for the “Best Presenter” in the parallel sessions. The 7th  National Seminar on Tropical Biology has successfully fostered a collaborative atmosphere and served as an important momentum for tropical biology to preserve and explore biodiversity.

    Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., expressed gratitude to all parties who contributed to the success of this event. It is hoped that the success of the 7th  SNBT will encourage even more collaborative efforts to protect tropical biodiversity and implement advanced technologies in biodiversity exploration. May this seminar serve as a driving force for a deeper understanding and awareness of the importance of preserving Indonesia’s natural wealth for a sustainable future.

     

     

    Faculty of Biology UGM Lecturers adopt DNA forensic to stop the illegal trade of elephant ivory

    Tak Berkategori Friday, 23 June 2023

    Lecturers from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, M.Si and Dra. Tuty Arisuryanti, M.Sc., Ph.D have been able to significantly advance efforts to halt the illegal trade in elephant ivory. The lecturer employed forensic DNA technology in an operation conducted by the Sumatra Regional Forestry and Environmental Law Enforcement and Security Agency to determine the place of origin of elephant ivory that was being trafficked into Aceh’s Sultan Iskandar Muda Airport.

    The Aceh BKSDA turned over the case to Balai Gakkum KLHK Region Sumatra, which on May 18, 2023, found evidence at Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport in the form of a package or box containing elephant ivory together with chips and instant coffee. The authorities sought the assistance of forensic scientist Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono and Dra. Tuty Arisuryanti, M.Sc., Ph.D., a lecturer at the Faculty of Biology UGM with experience in forensic DNA analysis, to determine the origin of the ivory.

    Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono answered right away as he has expertise in genetic study of elephant populations in Indonesia, particularly in Way Kambas and Bukit Barisan Selatan National Parks. Dr. Tuty Arisuryanti, M.Sc., Ph.D., assisted him in conducting DNA analysis on the identified samples of elephant ivory. Even though the samples originated from eroded ivory, Dr. Sendi was still able to detect distinct genotypes that were particular to each population of elephants in various regions using forensic DNA techniques.

    The Asian elephant’s Sumatran subspecies was identified as the source of the elephant ivory by the results of the forensic DNA investigation. This finding provides strong evidence that the ivory came from illicit trading. The provided details are essential.

    Currently, the suspect M has been detained at the Aceh Regional Police for further investigation. Against the evidence in the form of 1 elephant ivory weighing 5 kg with a length of 58 cm, inner base length of 52 cm, outer base length of 62 cm with a base diameter of 31 cm, 56 sachets of coffee, 0.5 kg of chips and 1 cardboard secured at the Aceh Law Enforcement Post , Balai Gakkum KLHK Sumatra Region.

    Documentation of the Press Release of the Gakkum Sumatera, 17 June 2023

    The illegal trade in elephant ivory is a widespread issue that threatens the ecosystem’s viability and decimates the elephant population. It is hoped that this case would establish a significant precedent in attempts to end the unlawful trade in animals that are protected and raise public awareness of the significance of wildlife protection.

    Strengthening Cooperation with Mount Merbabu National Park Authority, the Faculty of Biology UGM attended a Workshop on the Development of Ecotourism for the Merapi, Merbabu, and Menoreh Biosphere Reserve

    HeadlineNews ReleaseTak Berkategori Thursday, 22 June 2023

    A landscape-based approach is crucial in the management and development of natural tourism. To support this, the Mount Merbabu National Park Authority organized a workshop with the theme “Development of Ecotourism in Mount Merbabu National Park to Support the Merapi, Merbabu, Menoreh Biosphere Reserve through a Landscape-Based Approach: Experiences and Prospects.” The event also marked the retirement of Ir. Junita Parjanti, M.T. as the Head of the Mount Merbabu National Park Authority. This event, held on June 21, 2023, took place at the Lorin Solo Hotel in Karanganyar, Central Java, with the keynote speaker being the Director General of KSDAE, Prof. Dr. Ir. Satyawan Pudyatmoko, S.Hut., M.Sc., IPU. In his virtual presentation, he discussed topics related to Landscape-Based Conservation Area Management, Ecosystems, and Communities. During the event, Prof. Satyawan also launched the Virtual Assistant hiking tour of Mount Merbabu National Park.


    This Workshop also invited Prof. Luchman Hakim, S.Si., M.Agr.Sc., Ph.D., a faculty member from the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at Brawijaya University as speaker, who presented on “Ecotourism Development in the Biosphere Reserve: Concepts, Implementation, and Challenges,” and Prof. Dr. Yohanes Purwanto from the Ecology and Ethnobiology Research Center at BRIN, who discussed “Landscape-Based Concept for Biosphere Reserve Management.” As a closing session, the Head of Mount Merbabu National Park Authority, Ir. Junita Parjanti, M.T., presented on “Implementation of Landscape-Based Ecotourism in Mount Merbabu National Park.”

    During this occasion, representing the Dean of the Faculty of Biology at UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi S. Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., the Chair of the Tropical Biology Department, Abdul Razaq Chasani, Ph.D., emphasized the need for a balance between anthropocentric and biosentris perspectives in the development of the biosphere reserve’s ecotourism. The human-centered anthropocentric approach should be complemented by an understanding of the significance of biota as the primary components of the biosphere, a principle strongly emphasized in the teachings of the Faculty of Biology at UGM.

    The Workshop was attended by various officials including bureau chiefs, regents, directors, department heads, deans, and national park authorities in the fields of environment and forestry, and it took place from morning until afternoon. The event concluded with a farewell and appreciation gathering for Ir. Junita Parjanti, M.T., the retiring Head of the Mount Merbabu National Park Authority.

    The MBKM Service Team Encourages Organic Chrysanthemum Cultivation as a Tourist Spot and Food Diversification in Klayar

    Tak Berkategori Thursday, 12 January 2023

    The community service program in Klayar Hamlet, Kedung Poh Village, Gunung Kidul Regency is one of the Independent Learning Community Service programs for the Faculty of Biology in 2021. This activity is a follow-up program from the first period of service program in 2020, which is the production and application of biofertilizers for cayenne pepper commodities. The second period carries the theme of developing organic chrysanthemum cultivation as a form of enrichment for tourist spots in Klayar Ecotourism and as a basic ingredient for food diversification in the form of chrysanthemum tea and chrysanthemum leaf chips.

    The Tourism Village itself provides various facilities such as an outbound arena, camping grounds, fishing grounds and beautified restaurants as well as gazebos around it. Judging from this potential, this location was chosen as a partner village for the development of tourist spots and the use of chrysanthemum as a basic food ingredient, especially for tourist souvenirs.

    The Community Service Team has provided socialization on Thursday, 2 July 2022 in Klayar Hamlet with the target of the Klayar Village Women Farmers Group. The socialization activity was carried out for approximately 2 hours from 10.00-12.00 WIB. During the socialization, the team provided procedures for cultivating organic chrysanthemums and making tea and chrysanthemum leaf chips. Members of the Women Farmers group were also taught about how to make and apply biofertilizers to chrysanthemum plants.

    The Klayar Village Women’s Farmers Group gained high enthusiasm during the socialization. They were given the opportunity to get to know examples of processed chrysanthemum products such as chrysanthemum flower tea and chrysanthemum leaf chips so that these plants are no longer known as mere picking flowers with artificial value. This group was also given the opportunity to brew and taste tea made from chrysanthemums and the various benefits provided by consuming this preparation. Chrysanthemum was chosen as a plant used for the development of tourist spots and food diversification because it has a fairly high economic value. Through this program, chrysanthemums are not only known for their aesthetic aspects, but also substantially for their therapeutic and medicinal values. The development of the chrysanthemum plant itself aims to expand its potential apart from the aesthetic side, such as processed food with high economic value and nutrition. Chrysanthemum leaves and flowers have great potential to be processed into other snacks such as candy, chips and instant drinks.

    In addition to introducing the potential of chrysanthemum, during the socialization KWT Klayar members were invited to get to know the benefits of biofertilizers in plants. Farmer census data in 2013 from the Central Statistics Agency states that 86.41 percent of Indonesian farmers still use inorganic fertilizers. This organic chrysanthemum cultivation targets commodities to have better quality and strong competition in the market hence special treatment is needed. The addition of biofertilizer is intended to increase soil fertility, increase plant productivity, increase plant growth and development, and also increase plant health. Organic chrysanthemum plants with good quality are safer to be processed as food because in organic chrysanthemum there is no accumulation of harmful chemicals. Besides that, it can also increase the economic value of chrysanthemum plants. Furthermore, the Head of the Independent Learning Community Service Faculty of Biology Team to Hamlet Klayar stated that biofertilizer is present in the midst of marginal farmers to reduce their production costs as well as improve agricultural land.