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Faculty of Biology UGM Hosts Oxford Nanopore Technology Workshop as the Opening Event of ICBS 2025

News Release Thursday, 16 October 2025

Yogyakarta, 15 October 2025 — The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), held the first day of the Pre-Conference Workshop as part of the 9th International Conference on Biological Sciences (ICBS) 2025. The workshop carried the theme “Hands-on Library Preparation for Metagenome Long-Read Sequencing using Oxford Nanopore Technology.”


Held at the Teaching Laboratory, 2nd Floor of the Sinar Mas Building, Faculty of Biology UGM, the workshop was organized in collaboration with Integrated Genome Factory (IGF) and Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) as key partners. This program provided participants with a direct hands-on experience in library preparation for metagenomic analysis using the latest long-read sequencing technology.

The workshop, which took place from 08.00 to 17.00 WIB, was attended by at least 25 participants from various academic and research institutions who were enthusiastic about deepening their knowledge in biotechnology and genomics. Through a practical, hands-on approach, participants were guided through each critical stage, from DNA extraction and quantification to sample preparation for sequencing.

The event began with an opening remark by Mr. Aditya Aryandi S., S.Si., M.Sc., representing Integrated Genome Factory (IGF), who expressed appreciation for the strategic collaboration between IGF and the Faculty of Biology UGM in introducing advanced sequencing technologies to Indonesia’s academic community.
The opening continued with a welcoming address from Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni, who emphasized the importance of mastering modern genomic technologies to advance molecular biology research in Indonesia.

“Oxford Nanopore Technology opens vast opportunities for microbial biodiversity and bioprospecting research in Indonesia. We hope participants not only understand the concepts but are also able to apply them directly in the laboratory,” stated Dr. Eko.

In addition to the laboratory practice session, the workshop also featured an introduction to Oxford Nanopore Technologies, highlighting the principles and advantages of real-time sequencing and its potential applications in genomic, metagenomic, and molecular diagnostic research.

In accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this workshop contributes to several global objectives. It supports SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) by promoting the use of genomic technologies in health and biotechnology research, and SDG 4 (Quality Education) by enhancing the capacity of students and young researchers. It also aligns with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) through the application of advanced sequencing technologies that strengthen scientific innovation. Furthermore, the metagenomic approaches introduced in this program contribute to SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 15 (Life on Land) by encouraging the exploration and conservation of microbial biodiversity. By fostering collaboration among academia, industry, and global research partners such as Oxford Nanopore Technologies, this event also reflects SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), emphasizing the importance of international cooperation for sustainable scientific advancement.

As the opening event of the 9th ICBS, this workshop marks an important step in strengthening the capacity of young scientists and fostering genomic research collaboration in Indonesia. The Faculty of Biology UGM remains committed to advancing innovation and the application of cutting-edge technologies in the fields of genomics and bioinformatics.

#ICBS2025 #FakultasBiologiUGM #OxfordNanopore #IntegratedGenomeFactory #BioinformaticsWorkshop #Metagenomics #GenomicInnovation #SDG3 #SDG4 #SDG9 #SDG14 #SDG15 #SDG17 #SustainableScience #ResearchForSustainability

Monitoring the Development of KUB Local Superior Chicken Breeds in Wedomartani, Ngemplak, Sleman, Yogyakarta

Community ServiceNews Release Thursday, 16 October 2025

As a follow-up to the outreach activity entitled “Selection and Production of Superior Local Chicken Breeds Based on the Wedomartani Community, Ngemplak, Sleman” held on July 28, 2025, the Community Partner Team of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, represented by Dr. med. vet. Hendry Saragih, M.P. and Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes., in collaboration with the Government of Wedomartani Village, conducted a monitoring activity on the development of the superior local chicken breed KUB (Kampung Unggul Balitbangtan). In the previous activity, a total of 48 KUB chickens were distributed to 16 representatives of farmer groups from several hamlets in Wedomartani, with each group receiving one male and two female chickens. This initiative represents a tangible implementation of SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through cross-institutional collaboration aimed at strengthening community capacity based on scientific knowledge and appropriate technology.
The monitoring was conducted to assess the growth, health, and performance of the KUB chickens, which are now approximately five months old. Field observations showed that all distributed chickens are healthy, well-nourished, and highly adaptable to their rearing environment. The monitoring process was carried out participatively, involving representatives of farmer groups, the community partner team, and Mr. R. Rohmad Gunawan Hardono, S.Pd., the Carik (Village Secretary) of Wedomartani. Mr. Rohmad actively supervised and provided guidance to the beneficiaries. This effort supports the achievement of SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by ensuring the availability of sustainable and high-quality animal protein sources at the household level.
In addition to ensuring the success of the breeding program, this activity also serves as a continuous educational platform for the community in aspects such as feed management, biosecurity, and maintenance of superior local chicken breeds. By enhancing farmers’ skills and understanding, the program is expected to improve productivity and the sustainability of small-scale poultry enterprises in Wedomartani. Through its participatory and educational approach, this initiative contributes to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by creating new economic opportunities and increasing rural household income through independent and competitive poultry farming.
The development program of KUB chickens also has a significant social and public health impact. With the availability of affordable and nutritious animal protein sources, this initiative is expected to help improve family nutrition and support healthy and prosperous living, aligning with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being). In the coming months, the chickens are expected to enter the egg-laying and breeding phase, producing offspring that can be further developed as new superior local breeds to strengthen local food security. Overall, this activity serves as a model of community empowerment that integrates scientific knowledge, local wisdom, and the principles of sustainable development at the grassroots level.

Contributors: Ardaning Nuriliani, Hendry Saragih, and R. Rohmad Gunawan Hardono.

Herbal and Aromatherapy Education: UGM Faculty of Biology PkM-MBKM Team Promotes Health Innovation in Pajangan Hamlet, Wedomartani, Ngemplak, Sleman, Yogyakarta

Community ServiceNews Release Monday, 13 October 2025

The 2025 Community Service – Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (PkM-MBKM) Team of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), successfully conducted an educational program in Pajangan Hamlet, Wedomartani, Ngemplak, Sleman, under the title “Health Innovation through the Making of Aromatherapy Candles and Sharing Healthy Herbal Drink Recipes.” This program aimed to enhance community knowledge and skills in utilizing herbal ingredients for health and well-being—aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) No. 3: Good Health and Well-Being and No. 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. The team consisted of five active Biology students from the class of 2022, supervised by Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes and partner Mr. Gunardi, S.Si.


The event took place on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at Masjid Jami’ Darussalam, Pajangan Hamlet. The session began with educational talks delivered by Ghefira Nur Fatimah and Nimas Ayu Pramesthi, focusing on two main topics: techniques for making aromatherapy candles and healthy herbal drink recipes. During the hands-on session, participants practiced making aromatherapy candles using natural essential oils such as lavender, lemon, peppermint, and lemongrass. The participants enthusiastically created candles of their own preferences. Beyond serving as air fresheners, aromatherapy candles also help promote relaxation, enhance focus, improve sleep quality, and support meditation and emotional balance. In addition, participants were introduced to various easy-to-make herbal drink recipes designed for home preparation. Each recipe was selected based on its health benefits, such as boosting immunity, aiding detoxification, and maintaining metabolic balance. Thus, participants gained not only theoretical understanding but also practical skills that can be directly applied in daily life. Each participant brought home their own handmade aromatherapy candle as a symbol of the new knowledge and skills they had gained—supporting SDG No. 4: Quality Education.

This program is expected to bring direct benefits to the residents of Pajangan Hamlet while serving as an inspiration for sustainable collaboration between academia and local communities. Through such partnerships, the Faculty of Biology UGM reaffirms its commitment to promoting SDG No. 17: Partnerships for the Goals. With a spirit of sustainability and innovation, the PkM-MBKM Team of the Faculty of Biology UGM demonstrates how scientific knowledge can be applied in real life to improve community well-being.

Contributors: Ardaning Nuriliani, Chelsy Ammara Septiani, Meinawa Amaliah, Nimas Ayu Pramesthi, Syifa Aneira, and Muhammad Fathin Setya Daffa.

PRACTICAL PROCESSING OF HOME GARDEN CROPS INTO MARKETABLE PRODUCTS

Community Service Wednesday, 24 September 2025

In order to increase the economic value of home garden crops, PkM-MBKM 2025 Team, led by Prof. Dr. Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si. conducted a practical session on processing the home garden crop into marketable products on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at Padukuhan Kepuh Wetan, Kalurahan Wirokerten, Kapanewon Banguntapan, Bantul Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta. The PkM-MBKM team from the Faculty of Biology, UGM, consisting of Jovanka, Khansa Fauziah Rachman, Samantha Sonya Putri, and Dhea Amelia, first presented the procedures on how to process the crops, followed by a joint practice session on processing rosella (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.), butterfly pea (Clitoria ternatea L.), ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), and lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf). During this activity, the cultivated products were processed into rosella syrup and jam, rosella tea, butterfly pea tea, ginger tea, lemongrass tea, and butterfly pea noodles.


The activity began with a presentation on the procedures for making rosella syrup and jam, teas made from rosella, butterfly pea, ginger, and lemongrass, as well as butterfly pea noodles–starting from drying the harvested home garden crops, preparing the ingredients, and processing them. The presentation was then followed by a demonstration on making rosella syrup using dried rosella petals which then reused to make rosella jam to minimize waste. The activity continued with the making of tea from rosella, telang, lemongrass, and ginger with combinations according to the KWT Amanda members’ personal preference and creativity. The PkM MBKM team and KWT Amanda members also collaborated to make noodles with butterfly pea flower coloring, starting from making the dough, flattening, and cutting the noodle dough, then cooking them with various seasonings and toppings such as bok choys, meatballs, sausages, and eggs. The noodle dough was processed in two different ways: some were steamed and then dried, and some were boiled for immediate cooking. All processed products were made without preservatives. At the end of this activity, everyone enjoyed the processed products they had made together.

In this home garden crops product processing practice, KWT Amanda members were very enthusiastic about following each step of making the products from rosella, butterfly pea, lemongrass, and ginger, which they will later be able to do independently when the plants are mature enough to be harvested. KWT Amanda members also actively asked questions and participated in making the processed products, resulting in active interaction between both parties. Additionally, they greatly enjoyed the processed products that were made, which could serve as inspiration for processed home garden crops products that appeal to various groups of society. This activity is expected to increase food availability and security (SDG 2) and produce processed products that can improve the nutritional quality and health of the community (SDG 3). The development of value-added products opens up new business opportunities and strengthens the local resource-based economy (SDG 9), while this collaboration strengthens the relationship between the implementing team and the partner community (SDG 17).

Biology for Environment and Humanity: Faculty of Biology UGM Celebrates 70 Years of Contribution Toward Global Sustainability

News Release Monday, 22 September 2025

Yogyakarta, 18 September 2025 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), held the peak ceremony of its 14th Lustrum and 70th Anniversary on Thursday (18/9) at the Tropical Biology Auditorium. Carrying the theme “Biology for Environment and Humanity”, the event reaffirmed the Faculty’s commitment to advancing environmental sustainability and improving the quality of human life, both nationally and globally. The ceremony was also broadcast live through the Faculty of Biology UGM’s YouTube channel, enabling wider public participation.

The Open Senate Meeting was attended virtually by the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia, Prof. Brian Yuliarto, S.T., M.Eng., Ph.D., who emphasized the importance of collaborative tropical biology research to address future challenges in food, energy, and the environment. The Rector of UGM, Prof. dr. Ova Emilia, M.Med.Ed., Sp.OG(K), Ph.D., expressed her appreciation for the Faculty’s achievements in generating impactful innovations in tropical biology. She further highlighted UGM’s position, through the Faculty of Biology, as a National and International Center of Excellence in Tropical Biology.

The keynote scientific lecture was delivered by Drs. Heri Susanto, S.Si., M.M., Managing Director of Rentokil Initial (Indonesia, Sri Lanka & Maldives), with a presentation entitled “The Role and Application of Biology in the Pest Management Industry in Indonesia and the World”. He emphasized the critical role of biology in integrated pest management to support food security, public health, and the sustainability of environmentally conscious industries.

Meanwhile, the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi S. Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., presented the Faculty’s accomplishments over the past five years, including the strengthening of tropical biotechnology research, the development of international curricula, and the contributions of alumni across various sectors. He also announced the soft launching of the Bio Medic Center building plan, envisioned as a new center of excellence for tropical biodiversity-based biomedical research and services.

The Open Senate Meeting served as the main agenda of a series of Lustrum XIV and 70th Anniversary activities that had been held since May 2025. These included a Fun Walk, Book Review and Blood Donation Drive, National Seminar on Tropical Biology, International Summer Course, Alumni Gathering, and the BioToprak Creative Stage. All activities were designed to strengthen the networks among academics, alumni, and partners, while reinforcing the Faculty’s role as a leading center for tropical biology at both the national and international levels.

The event also featured the signing of memorandums of understanding with PT. Biogen, the Marine and Fisheries Office of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, and St. Augustine Catholic University, focusing on collaboration in education, research, and community service.

“The theme Biology for Environment and Humanity serves as a reminder that innovations in biology must always be directed toward sustainable solutions for the planet and the welfare of humankind,” remarked Prof. Budi S. Daryono.

Fast-Track Master’s Student of Biology UGM Wins Favorite Poster Award at Indonesia Research and Innovation Fair (IRIFair) 2025

Achivements Friday, 12 September 2025

Indonesia Research and Innovation Fair (IRIFair) 2025 is a scientific competition for undergraduate and master’s students showcasing their thesis research. This event represents the commitment of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) to discover young research talents from higher education. The fair aims to improve both the quality and quantity of Indonesia’s research and innovation talents through scouting missions and comprehensive, sustainable, and innovative mentoring programs. This year, IRIFair 2025 was held on September 9–10 at the Polytechnic Institute of Nuclear Technology, coinciding with its 40th Dies Natalis celebration.

In this prestigious event, Tiara Putria Judith, a Fast-Track Master’s student at the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (class of 2024/2025), won the Favorite Poster Award in the Research Poster Competition (RPC). She also received a research grant to further develop her undergraduate thesis entitled “Genetic Variation and Phylogenetic Relationships of Sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrid) Based on the Chloroplast rbcL Gene”.

Tiara’s poster effectively optimized visual communication by combining impactful graphics with concise text, enabling her to present research findings clearly and attractively. Beyond serving as a medium of scientific communication, the poster also sparked engaging discussions with audiences, offering new insights into the advantages of DNA barcoding for overcoming the limitations of conventional identification methods in potential parental candidates for sugarcane hybridization in Indonesia.

This achievement underscores Tiara’s active role as a UGM Biology student in advancing innovations in life sciences and technology to address the challenges of sustainable agriculture. Her success is expected to become an early milestone for more innovative and impactful research explorations in the future.

Faculty of Biology UGM and Eijkman BRIN Strengthen Collaboration in Molecular Biology and Genomics Research

CooperationNews Release Wednesday, 27 August 2025

Yogyakarta, August 27, 2025 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), welcomed a visit from the Eijkman Molecular Biology Research Center, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) on Wednesday (27/8) at the KPTU Meeting Room, Faculty of Biology. The delegation was led by Elisabeth Farah Novita Coutrier, S.Si., Ph.D., Head of Eijkman Molecular Biology Research, accompanied by Farida Dwi Handayani, S.Si., M.S.


From the Faculty of Biology UGM, the meeting was attended by Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc.; Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, S.Si., M.App.Sc.; Head of the Office of International Affairs (OIA) UGM, Tyas Ikhsan Hikmawan, S.Si., M.S., Ph.D.; Secretary of the Office of International Affairs, Dr. Matin Nuhamunada, S.Si., M.Sc.; as well as staff members of the Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Unit: Dhimas Willy Saputro, S.I.P., Annisa Mawarni, S.Si., and Anysah Nur Fauziyah, S.Si.

During the meeting, the Eijkman Molecular Biology Research Center, which is currently under the Health Research Organization of BRIN, presented its flagship research programs, including:

Pathogen Molecular Biology

Malaria and Vector Resistance

Pathobiology of Emerging and Vector-borne Diseases

Human Genetic Diversity and Diseases

Structural Biology and Cell Signaling

The visit aimed to initiate a research collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM, the Integrated Genome Factory (IGF), and the Eijkman Molecular Biology Research Center. The collaboration will focus on multi-omics approaches in pathogen research, targeting infectious diseases such as hantavirus, leptospirosis, and plague (PES), as well as other pathogens with the potential to threaten public health.

Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, warmly welcomed this collaboration, emphasizing that the flagship programs of the Eijkman Molecular Biology Research Center are highly aligned with the research currently being carried out by lecturers at the Faculty of Biology. This synergy, he noted, represents a significant opportunity to strengthen collaborative research and scientific publications in molecular biology, health, and genomics.

This initiative is also in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:

SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being): advancing infectious disease research and developing genomics-based health solutions.

SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure): enhancing multi-omics research infrastructure and scientific collaboration.

SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): strengthening national research networks in molecular biology and health.

The meeting concluded with a productive discussion that generated several follow-up plans to reinforce joint research and to develop human resource capacity in molecular biology and genomics-based health research.

Faculty of Biology UGM Initiates Collaboration with Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University Thailand

CooperationNews Release Wednesday, 27 August 2025

Yogyakarta, 25 August 2025 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), welcomed a delegation from the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand. This visit marked the beginning of academic collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and one of the leading universities in Thailand.


The Chulalongkorn University delegation was led by Professor Dr. Pranut Potiyaraj, Dean of the Faculty of Science, accompanied by Associate Professor Dr. Prasert Reubroycharoen, Dr. Inthawoot Suppavorasatit, Associate Professor Dr. Sehanat Prasongsuk, Assistant Professor Dr. Chompoonik Kanchanabanca, and Dr. Wuttichai Reainthippayasakul. The delegation was also joined by Dwi Kusuma Wahyuni, Ph.D., from the Faculty of Science and Technology, Universitas Airlangga.

The delegation was received by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs, together with Dr. Nur Indah Septriani, Head of the Office of International Affairs of the Faculty of Biology UGM, and Dr. Matin Nuhamunada, Secretary of the Office of International Affairs of the Faculty of Biology UGM.

In his remarks, Dr. Eko expressed his appreciation for the visit, noting that the Faculty of Biology UGM had never previously established cooperation with Chulalongkorn University. He also introduced the faculty’s profile, highlighting its research strengths, international programs, and potential areas of collaboration.

Meanwhile, Prof. Pranut conveyed his enthusiasm for exploring opportunities with UGM. The discussion covered several potential collaborations, including student participation in the Graduate Student Conference alongside NUS and Mahidol University, joint research opportunities through invited researcher and adjunct professor schemes, the initiation of a double degree program with the Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, as well as scholarship opportunities for UGM postgraduate students.

Through this discussion, the Faculty of Biology UGM and Chulalongkorn University reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) by enhancing access to higher education, SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) through innovative research collaborations, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by strengthening international academic networks.

This visit is expected to serve as a gateway to closer academic collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Chulalongkorn University, particularly in advancing research, academic mobility, and capacity building for students and faculty members at the international level.

Journal Management Discussion between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Universitas Pattimura

News Release Friday, 22 August 2025

Yogyakarta, August 20, 2025 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, welcomed a visit from the Journal Division of Universitas Pattimura as part of efforts to strengthen networks and share experiences in managing scientific journals within higher education institutions. The meeting took place on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at the KPTU Meeting Room, Faculty of Biology UGM.


From the Faculty of Biology UGM, the discussion was attended by the editorial team of the Journal of Tropical Biodiversity and Biotechnology (JTBB), namely Dr. Miftahul Ilmi as Editor-in-Chief, Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani as Managing Editor, and Salwa Shabria Wafi, S.Tr.Li as Administrator and Copyeditor.

Meanwhile, the delegation from the Journal Division of Universitas Pattimura was led by Dr. Pieter A. Riupassa, Head of the Rumah Jurnal Universitas Pattimura and Editor of Jurnal Rumphius. The delegation also included other editors, namely Mr. Yopi A. Lesnussa, M.Sc., Editor-in-Chief of Jurnal Barekeng; Mr. Taufan Talib, M.Sc., Editor-in-Chief of Jurnal Jupitek; and Mr. Berny Tomasouw, Editor of Jurnal Barekeng.

The program began with a brief presentation by Dr. Miftahul Ilmi, who explained the management strategies of the Journal of Tropical Biodiversity and Biotechnology (JTBB), including its achievements as well as ongoing challenges in maintaining publication quality and attaining international indexing. This was followed by a sharing session from representatives of the Journal Division of Universitas Pattimura, who discussed the dynamics and challenges of managing journals at Universitas Pattimura.

The discussion focused on improving publication quality and developing effective journal management strategies, both internally among editorial teams and externally in collaboration with faculties and universities. The meeting also served as a platform to exchange insights on the challenges and opportunities of scientific journal management at the institutional level.

In addition to strengthening collaboration between universities, this activity contributes to the achievement of quality education through the enhancement of scholarly publications as learning resources (SDG 4), while also supporting the advancement of scientific infrastructure and research innovation in Indonesia (SDG 9). The presence of both institutions in this forum also reflects the spirit of partnerships for sustainable development through inter-institutional collaboration (SDG 17).

Through this activity, it is expected that closer cooperation between Universitas Pattimura and Universitas Gadjah Mada will be fostered in advancing the quality of scientific publications in Indonesia, while also supporting the role of higher education institutions as centers of knowledge development with international reputation.

Contributor: Salwa

Focus Group Discussion: “Application of Food Irradiation to Support the Export of Indonesian Agricultural Products”, BRIN – Serpong

News Release Thursday, 31 July 2025

Nuclear Energy Research Organization – BRIN
Tuesday, July 29, 2025 | Auditorium Building 720, BJ Habibie Science and Technology Area, BRIN Serpong

The Nuclear Energy Research Organization of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) held a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) titled “Application of Food Irradiation to Support the Export of Indonesian Agricultural Products” on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at the Auditorium of Building 720 in the BJ Habibie Science and Technology Area (KST), Serpong. The event, which ran from 08:30 to 15:30 WIB, aimed to promote the use of food irradiation technology as a strategy to enhance the competitiveness of Indonesian agricultural products in the global market, while also supporting the distribution of safe and nutritious food across the archipelago.


The discussion was opened by the Deputy for Research and Innovation Utilization at BRIN, who emphasized the importance of integrating research, policy, and industry to transform the national food system. A keynote address by Dr. Tri Mumpuni, a member of BRIN’s Steering Committee, underlined the critical role of irradiation technology in boosting food export and safety. She also addressed the issue of equitable access to research and technological infrastructure, advocating for the decentralization of irradiation facilities beyond the existing centers in Cibinong and Serpong to other regions, particularly in Eastern Indonesia where food production and export potential are significant.

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency, Dr. Ir. Dadan Hindayana, highlighted the potential of food irradiation to support national nutrition initiatives, particularly the free nutritious lunch program targeting vulnerable groups such as children from low-income families, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers. He emphasized the importance of high-quality food provision and sustainable organic waste processing as part of Indonesia’s upcoming national nutrition revolution and called for thorough research on the impact of food irradiation as a preservation method within this program.

The technical sessions featured distinguished speakers from both national and international institutions. Dr. Andrew Jessup, a horticultural entomologist and consultant from Australia, presented on the global market for irradiated fresh produce. He discussed how irradiation technology could be used to control fruit flies, a key challenge in horticultural exports. Since each insect species requires a specific radiation dose for sterilization, treatment protocols must be carefully tailored. He also highlighted the need to build public trust in the safety of irradiated food.

In the following session, Dra. Dwiana Andayani, Apt., from the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM), stressed the importance of standardizing irradiation doses and complying with national and international food safety regulations. She explained that BPOM is responsible for monitoring processed irradiated food products, while the National Food Agency (BAPANAS) supervises fresh irradiated products. As of now, five processed food items have been registered as irradiated in Indonesia: cocoa powder, edible bird’s nest, frozen fish, tea, and powdered honey. All irradiated products must be labeled accordingly, following international standards.

Dr. Antarjo Dikin, a Principal Expert in Plant Quarantine at the Indonesian Quarantine Agency, provided insights into labeling procedures, the cleaning of packing facilities, and the steps involved in exporting irradiated fruits. The Nuclear Energy Regulatory Agency (BAPETEN) shared information on the licensing of irradiator facility construction and operation, radiation monitoring, and safety assurances for nuclear technology used in food applications.

From the industry perspective, Mr. Gustam, an exporter who uses food irradiation services, shared his experience in product validation, determining the effective minimum dosage, managing production costs, and fulfilling export requirements, including compliance with U.S. FDA standards for products such as tuna and salmon, which require a 3 kGy irradiation dose costing approximately IDR 800 per kilogram.

Yusra Egayanti, S.Si., Apt., M.P., Director of Food Safety and Quality Standards at BAPANAS, explained how irradiation helps extend the shelf life of fresh food by sterilizing products and eliminating pests and bacteria. Dr. Syaiful Bakri, Head of the Nuclear Energy Research Organization at BRIN, emphasized the role of research in the development of irradiation and accelerator technologies. He announced the upcoming launch of a new food irradiation facility next month, aimed at strengthening the applied research ecosystem in Indonesia. He also noted that the organization manages seven research centers focusing on both fundamental and applied research to support industrial and societal needs.

A speaker from Oneject Indonesia presented the application of electron beam technology for irradiating medical devices and food products. Su Bin, Chief Representative of China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) Indonesia, presented CNNC’s 70 years of nuclear experience and their strategies for integrating nuclear energy and irradiation technology into the food industry. He emphasized that different food types—such as vegetables, fruits (including mango, mangosteen, salak, and apples), bread, and ready-to-eat meals—require specific radiation doses. Proper optimization can make these foods more durable, bacteria-free, and pest-free. He also noted that irradiation is a non-invasive method that does not alter the structural or nutritional integrity of the food.

The panel discussion, moderated by Bimo Saputro, S.ST., M.Si. and Okky Agassy Firmansyah, S.T., M.Sc., was dynamic and explored diverse perspectives from technical, policy, social, and research collaboration angles. Regional government representation came from BRIDA East Kalimantan, who raised concerns about infrastructure development for irradiation facilities in their region due to limited budgets and the inefficiencies of centralized policies.

The FGD was attended by representatives from various sectors, including government institutions (BRIN, BPOM, BAPETEN, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries), national and multinational companies (PT Indofood, PT Unilever, PT Nestlé, PT Danone), industry associations (GAPMMI, KADIN), international organizations (IAEA, FAO, WHO, Codex Alimentarius), and leading universities such as UGM, UI, ITB, IPB, Universiras Padjajaran, Universitas Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa, Universitas Pamulang, Universitas Pertahanan, and Sekolah Tinggi Intelijen Negara (STIN). The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada was represented by Novita Yustinadiar, S.Si., M.Si., a lecturer from the Laboratory of Plant Structure and Development. The involvement of academic institutions reinforced the commitment to synergize research bodies, universities, and the industrial sector to develop measurable and sustainable food irradiation technologies.

This cross-sectoral participation demonstrated strong enthusiasm for food irradiation as part of both national and global food system transformation. The event also encouraged collaborative studies by university researchers to explore irradiation impacts from various perspectives, including plant morphology, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, insect pests, biochemistry, genetic effects on food products, and implications for human health.

The discussions on food irradiation aligned with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The innovation contributes to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by ensuring access to safe and high-quality food, particularly in remote and disaster-affected areas. It supports SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by minimizing risks from insects and pathogenic microorganisms. Through the development of irradiation infrastructure based on applied research, it advances SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). Efficient and sustainable food processing techniques also support SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Furthermore, the spirit of inter-agency and international collaboration embodied in the FGD reflects SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), which is key to maximizing the societal benefits of nuclear technology.

Through this FGD, BRIN hopes to foster cross-sectoral consensus on the benefits of food irradiation and facilitate the development of comprehensive national standards. This initiative marks an important milestone toward establishing nuclear technology as a practical solution for enhancing Indonesian agricultural exports, reinforcing national food security, and improving public health outcomes.