Yogyakarta, July 1, 2026 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), successfully hosted the 10th National Seminar on Tropical Biology (SNBT) in conjunction with the International Conference on Nusantara Spices and Biodiversity (ICNSB). The event was held at the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology UGM, under the theme “Reviving the Glory of Nusantara Spices through Biodiversity Research and Sustainable Innovation.”

The 10th SNBT in conjunction with ICNSB served as an academic forum that brought together researchers, academics, students, practitioners, and stakeholders to exchange research findings and strengthen collaboration in the fields of tropical biodiversity, Nusantara spices, and sustainable innovation. Through this theme, the conference underscored the vital role of biological sciences in exploring, conserving, and sustainably utilizing Indonesia’s rich biological resources.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Mirza Hanif Al Falah, M.Ling., Chair of the 10th SNBT Organizing Committee, reported that this year’s seminar welcomed approximately 80 invited guests and featured 42 participants representing 15 higher education institutions across Indonesia. Participating institutions included Universitas Gadjah Mada, Universitas Jenderal Soedirman, Universitas Bengkulu, Universitas Nasional, Universitas Riau, Universitas Jambi, Universitas Indonesia, Universitas Padjadjaran, Universitas Negeri Mataram, Universitas Cenderawasih, Universitas Bangka Belitung, UIN Sunan Ampel Surabaya, Universitas Islam As-Syafi’iyah, Universitas Katolik Widya Mandira, and Institut Seni Indonesia Yogyakarta. The broad participation from institutions nationwide reflected the growing commitment to advancing research in tropical biology and biodiversity in Indonesia.

“Nusantara spices are not only an important part of the history of global trade, but also a representation of Indonesia’s extraordinary biological wealth,” stated Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, during his welcoming address. He expressed his appreciation for the successful organization of the 10th SNBT, which this year was held in conjunction with ICNSB, further expanding opportunities for international scientific collaboration.

The opening ceremony continued with remarks from Dr. Danang Sri Hadmoko, S.Si., M.Sc., Vice Rector for Research, Business Development, and Cooperation of Universitas Gadjah Mada. He emphasized that Indonesia’s rich spice heritage represents far more than a valuable commodity, it embodies the nation’s identity, cultural heritage, biodiversity, and contribution to global scientific advancement. He expressed hope that the conference would serve as a platform for fostering innovation and promoting sustainable biodiversity research related to Indonesia’s spice resources.

The scientific program commenced with a plenary session featuring distinguished experts in biodiversity, spices, and biological innovation. The plenary speakers included Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. from the Faculty of Biology UGM, who presented Indonesia’s spice biodiversity and diversity data; Dr. Roderick Bouman from Hortus Botanicus, Leiden University, who discussed the evolution and diversity of Nusantara spices; Prof. Chiharu Nakashima, Ph.D. from Mie University, Japan, who delivered a presentation on plant pathology and crop protection; and Assoc. Prof. Yaya Rukayadi, Ph.D. from Universiti Putra Malaysia, who explored the application of spices in food technology.

Following the plenary session, the conference continued with parallel presentation sessions, providing researchers with the opportunity to present their latest findings across various disciplines of tropical biology. These sessions also facilitated scientific discussion, knowledge exchange, networking, and the development of interdisciplinary and interinstitutional collaborations.

The organization of the 10th SNBT in conjunction with ICNSB reflects the Faculty of Biology UGM’s continued commitment to strengthening research on tropical biodiversity and promoting innovation based on Indonesia’s biological resources. Through this forum, research outcomes are expected to make meaningful contributions to scientific advancement, biodiversity conservation, and the sustainable utilization of Nusantara spices and the nation’s natural resources.

The conference concluded with appreciation extended to all participants, presenters, keynote speakers, organizing committee members, and supporting partners whose contributions ensured the success of The 10th SNBT in conjunction with ICNSB. The Faculty of Biology UGM hopes that this event will continue to serve as a collaborative platform for advancing tropical biology research and highlighting Indonesia as one of the richest countries in the world in terms of biodiversity and spice heritage.

The conference also contributes to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

On Tuesday, June 16, 2026, the Community Service Team of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, officially initiated a series of activities under the program entitled “Golden Kamper Chicken Farming Technology Through the Application of a Dual-Input Incubator as an Effort to Develop an Independent Core-Plasma System to Support Zero Hunger (SDG 2)” through its first socialization event. The activity was held in Hargowilis, Kokap, Kulon Progo, Special Region of Yogyakarta. The program targeted members of the Reka Amartani Livestock Farmer Group, who enthusiastically participated in the event from the opening session, presentation, until the closing activities. The program commenced with remarks from the project leader, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. In his opening speech, he expressed his hope that the program would provide tangible benefits to the local community by enhancing poultry productivity and supporting sustainable livestock development.

Following the opening remarks, the event continued with a presentation entitled “Getting to Know the Chicken Reproductive System: The Secret Behind Productive Layers and Healthy Chicks” delivered by Zuliyati Rohmah, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D. The session was designed to provide participants with fundamental knowledge of the chicken reproductive system, factors affecting egg productivity, and the importance of reproductive management in successful poultry farming. The presentation further explained the structure and function of the reproductive organs in chickens, the process of egg formation, and various factors influencing the production of high-quality eggs. Participants were also introduced to the relationship between animal health, nutrition, rearing conditions, and successful egg incubation. At the end of the session, a group photo was taken to document the participation of both the community service team and the attendees.

This inaugural socialization activity marks the first step in a broader community empowerment program aimed at introducing Golden Kamper chicken farming technology, including the application of a dual-input incubator as an innovation to improve productivity and strengthen farmers’ self-reliance. The program is expected to support the development of an independent and sustainable core-plasma farming system while contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2: Zero Hunger through the empowerment of community-based livestock farming. In the coming months, a series of follow-up activities will be carried out, ranging from farming assistance and capacity-building programs to the implementation of incubation technology that supports increased chicken population and productivity in Hargowilis. Through collaboration among the project team, resource persons, and local community members, the program is expected to create new opportunities for productive, independent, and sustainable livestock enterprises that can improve the welfare of rural communities.

Yogyakarta, June 18,2026. The Doctoral Program in Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), held a Dissertation Research Seminar attended by 47 doctoral students enrolled in the Research I, Research II, and Research III courses. The seminar served as a platform for evaluating and disseminating the progress of doctoral research, supporting timely degree completion and enhancing the quality of research outputs.

In her report, Prof. Rina emphasized that the research seminar constitutes an integral component of the academic evaluation process designed to monitor students’ research progress and ensure the attainment of doctoral level learning outcomes. Through this forum, students received valuable feedback from their promoters, co-promoters, faculty members, and fellow participants to further refine their ongoing research. The seminar was also attended by international promoters, including, Prof. P. J. A. Kessler from Leiden University, The Netherland, Prof. Chiharu Nakashima, Ph.D. from Mie University, Japan and Prof. Said Ali Eid Elsalamouny from Cairo University, Egypt. The participation of these international scholars reflects the strengthening of global academic networks continuously fostered by the Doctoral Program in Biology UGM.

The seminar showcased a diverse range of research topics across the biological sciences, including biodiversity, functional biology, biotechnology, microbiology, ecology, and molecular biology. This diversity reflects the Doctoral Program in Biological Sciences, UGM’s commitment to advancing research that addresses contemporary scientific developments and societal needs.

Through both oral and poster presentations, participants not only presented their research progress but also engaged in scholarly discussions that enriched perspectives, strengthened research approaches, and fostered opportunities for academic collaboration. The seminar also reflects the program’s commitment to maintaining the quality of doctoral education and producing graduates capable of contributing to scientific advancement at both the national and global levels.

This activity aligns with the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) through enhancing the quality of higher education and research capacity, SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) through promoting research-based innovation, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through strengthening academic collaboration and scientific networks in support of sustainable development.

The Biology Teachers’ Association (MGMP) of East Java Province, in collaboration with the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, successfully organized a laboratory-based teacher competency enhancement program through a practicum entitled “Chromosome Studies in the Cell Cycle through a Cytogenetic Approach” on Monday, June 15, 2026, from 09.00–12.00 WIB at the Genetics and Breeding Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, UGM. The activity, attended by 35 biology teachers from Madrasah Aliyah (MA), provided a research-based and hands-on laboratory learning experience that enabled participants to gain a deeper understanding of cytogenetics, the cell cycle, and plant chromosome analysis through direct practice and microscopic observation.

The program began with opening remarks delivered by the Head of the Genetics and Breeding Laboratory, Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. In her remarks, she emphasized the importance of research-oriented biology education and laboratory experimentation as an effort to improve the quality of science education that is contextual, innovative, and oriented toward the development of scientific skills.

The first session focused on chromosome preparation practicum using shallot roots as the object for mitotic observation. The practicum was guided by instructor Denianto Agung Wicaksono, S.Si., together with laboratory assistants. During this session, participants conducted direct laboratory practice starting from root cutting, fixation treatment, maceration, chromosome staining using aceto-orcein, squash techniques, and microscopic observation of chromosome preparations. Through this hands-on laboratory approach, participants gained practical experience in observing cell division stages and understanding the fundamental principles of plant cytogenetic preparation.

During the microscopic observation session, participants successfully identified various stages of mitosis, including prophase, prometaphase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase in shallot root meristem cells. In addition to strengthening participants’ understanding of cell cycle dynamics, the activity also introduced cytogenetic methods commonly applied in genetics and plant breeding research.

The second session continued with demonstrations and hands-on practice in constructing chromosome karyotypes and idiograms, guided by instructor Tiara Putria Judith, S.Si., together with laboratory assistants. Participants were introduced to chromosome analysis techniques using ImageRaster software, including calibration, chromosome arm length measurement, centromere position identification, chromosome morphology analysis, and idiogram construction as a visual representation of chromosome characteristics. This session provided practical insight into quantitative and systematic chromosome analysis approaches widely applied in modern cytogenetic studies.

The practicum activity “Chromosome Studies in the Cell Cycle through a Cytogenetic Approach” also contributed to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) through strengthening research- and practicum-based education, SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) through the development of laboratory and research competencies, SDG 15 (Life on Land) through increasing understanding of plant genetic diversity and characteristics, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through strengthening academic collaboration between higher education institutions and the Biology Teachers’ Association (MGMP) of East Java Province.

The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), has strengthened its international network through the signing of a Letter of Intent (LoI) with the Centre for Research in Biotechnology for Agriculture (CEBAR), Universiti Malaya, Malaysia, on 4 June 2026. This collaboration marks an initial step toward developing academic and research partnerships between the two institutions through a shared commitment to exploring opportunities in education, research, and human resource development.

The LoI was signed on behalf of the Faculty of Biology UGM by Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, and by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tan Boon Chin, Director of CEBAR Universiti Malaya. The signing ceremony was also attended by Dr. Lau Su Ee, Executive Director of UM Agroforestry, and Dr. Chua Kah Ooi, Head of Academic Programmes at the Centre for Research in Biotechnology for Agriculture (CEBAR). This agreement reflects the commitment of both institutions to strengthening collaboration in education, research, innovation, and academic capacity development through a mutually beneficial partnership.

During the exploratory meeting and LoI signing ceremony, the Faculty of Biology UGM was represented by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs; Prof. Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, M.Sc., Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs; and Dr. Slamet Widiyanto, S.Si., M.Sc., Vice Dean for Finance, Assets, and Human Resources. The meeting served as an important milestone in opening broader opportunities for collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and CEBAR Universiti Malaya, particularly in biotechnology, genomics, agriculture, and the development of advanced research technologies.

Through this LoI, both institutions agreed to explore various forms of collaboration, including the exchange of students, faculty members, and researchers; collaborative research and scientific publications; the organization of seminars, conferences, symposia, and summer courses; academic staff exchanges as visiting lecturers; adjunct professorship appointments; and the exchange of academic information and resources. These initiatives are expected to strengthen institutional capacity while enhancing the quality of education and research at both institutions.

The collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and CEBAR Universiti Malaya is also one of the outcomes of the Joint Supervision Phase 2 Equity Scheme 2026, under the research project entitled “Genome Characterization and Functional Gene Analysis of Indonesian Commercial Sugarcane (Saccharum hybrid) Based on Whole Genome Sequencing to Support National Sugar Self-Sufficiency.” The project is being carried out by Master’s students of the Faculty of Biology UGM, namely Tiara Putria Judith, S.Si., Sabrina Labista Wibowo, S.Si., and Oliv Nurul Kanaya, S.Si., under the supervision of Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D.

This partnership is aligned with both institutions’ commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) through strengthening educational capacity and international academic exchange; SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) through research and innovation aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and supporting national sugar self-sufficiency; SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) through the application of genomics and biotechnology in research; and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through strengthening strategic international collaboration among higher education institutions. This partnership is expected to make a meaningful contribution to scientific advancement, food security, and sustainable development in Indonesia and beyond.

Grant Program through Joint Supervision Stage 2 Equity Scheme 2026 successfully organized a Guest Lecture entitled “Advances in Genomics and Biotechnology for Sustainable Agriculture and Life Science” on Thursday, June 4th, 2026, from 09.00–12.00 WIB at the MMA Auditorium, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM). This activity was part of an effort to strengthen international academic collaboration while enhancing research capacity and higher education in the fields of plant omics, biotechnology, and sustainable life sciences. The grant program is led by Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. as the Principal Investigator (PI), with Widhi Dyah Sawitri, S.Si., M.Agr., Ph.D. as a team member.

The Guest Lecture featured three international speakers from Universiti Malaya, Malaysia, namely Dr. Tan Boon Chin, Dr. Lau Su Ee, and Dr. Chua Kah Ooi. In the first session, Dr. Tan delivered a presentation entitled “How Banana Plants Cope with Drought: Insight into Morphological and Molecular Responses,” discussing the morphological and molecular responses of banana plants to drought stress as well as the importance of genomic approaches in developing stress-tolerant crops.

Dr. Lau presented a topic entitled “Drought Responses of Pandanus and the Biostimulant Potential of Oil Palm Wood Vinegar,” which explored the drought responses of pandanus plants and the potential of oil palm wood vinegar as an environmentally friendly biostimulant to support sustainable plant growth. This presentation provided insights into the integration of biotechnology and biological resource utilization to support sustainable and climate-adaptive agriculture.

In the final session, Dr. Chua Kah Ooi presented research on bacterial community characterization and the identification of novel bacterial species in Asian weaver ants (Oecophylla smaragdina) using microbiological and molecular approaches. In addition, Dr. Chua introduced opportunities for postgraduate study programs at Universiti Malaya as well as potential international research collaborations for students and academics. The event was attended by 105 participants consisting of students, lecturers, researchers, and academics from various fields of agriculture, biotechnology, and biology. Participants showed great enthusiasm during both the presentation sessions and interactive discussions with the international speakers.

As part of the implementation of the Academic Internationalization Reinforcement Grant Program through Joint Supervision, the activity was continued with an academic discussion session related to the development of research conducted by students of the Master’s Program in Biology, Faculty of Biology UGM. Three master’s students, namely Tiara Putria Judith, Oliv Nurul Kanaya, and Sabrina Labista Wibowo, presented and discussed their research directions focusing on major omics topics in sugarcane, including genomics research development, biotechnology, and molecular approaches to support sustainable agriculture. Discussions with the international speakers served as a platform for scientific exchange, research feedback, and the strengthening of international academic collaboration in supporting the implementation of the Joint Supervision scheme. Through this activity, students gained insights into research methodology development, opportunities for cross-institutional research collaboration, as well as the enhancement of academic capacity and international scientific publication.

In addition to supporting the advancement of science and technology, this activity also aligns with the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) through strengthening sustainable agricultural innovation, SDG 4 (Quality Education) through improving higher education quality and international collaboration, SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) through biotechnology research and innovation development, and SDG 13 (Climate Action) through studies on plant responses to drought stress as an impact of climate change.