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SDG 11 : Mobilize Sustainable Cities and Communities

Ethnobiology Lecture at the Yogyakarta Palace: Exploring Cultural Wisdom in Preserving Biodiversity

News ReleaseStudent Activities Wednesday, 8 October 2025

On Saturday, September 27, 2025, students of the Master’s Program in Biology, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, who are enrolled in the Ethnobiology course, participated in a unique field lecture held at the Yogyakarta Palace (Keraton Yogyakarta). The session, which began at 11.00 a.m., took the form of an open discussion on cultural wisdom within the Palace environment and its relationship to biodiversity. The students, accompanied by the course lecturer, Dr.Eng. Zuliyati Rohmah, S.Si., M.Si., engaged in an interactive discussion with two speakers representing the Palace: R.A. Siti Amirul Nur Sundari (Carik Kawedanan Radyo Kartiyoso) and Mas Jajar Praba Hanendra (Mas Irmawan).


The activity began with introductions between the students and the speakers, followed by a brief explanation of the genealogy of the Yogyakarta Palace, the meaning of candrasengkala (symbolic inscriptions) on palace buildings, and the etiquette of dressing within the royal grounds. The main discussion then focused on cultural wisdom and its connection to biodiversity. The speakers explained that many plants growing within the Palace grounds hold specific symbolic meanings and ecological functions. Some of these—such as beringin (banyan), sawo kecik, gayem, and kepel trees—are cultivated and maintained with special care by the Palace. There are also naturally growing plants, such as various ferns that attach themselves to large trees.

Through this activity, students not only learned about the close interrelation between culture and the environment but also came to understand that biodiversity conservation has long been an integral part of the cultural heritage of the Yogyakarta Palace.

The vegetation within the Palace grounds serves not merely as landscape decoration but carries deep philosophical and ecological significance in Javanese life, particularly within the royal setting. These plants are arranged meaningfully to serve various purposes—as shade providers, pollutant absorbers, water retainers, and windbreaks. According to R.A. Siti Amirul Nur Sundari, each plant in the Palace embodies both symbolic and ecological roles that complement one another. She explained the meanings and functions of several important plants, including the beringin, gayam, jambu dersana, sawo kecik, and kepel.

Banyan Tree (Beringin): A Symbol of Sacredness and Life Sustenance

The banyan tree is regarded as sacred within the Palace grounds. Ecologically, it plays an essential role as a source of oxygen, a groundwater reservoir, and a habitat for various small animals and epiphytic plants. Due to its importance, only the Sultan has the authority to plant a banyan tree. The Sultan also prohibits excessive planting of banyans to maintain biodiversity and prevent a monoculture environment that could threaten other plant species. Additionally, the tree’s large, spreading roots can damage building foundations and drainage systems if planted too close to infrastructure.

Jambu Dersana: A Symbol of Serenity and Inner Peace

The jambu dersana symbolizes tranquility and calmness. The word durs refers to rain that brings coolness and peace. This philosophy teaches that anyone entering the Palace area should carry an aura of peace and composure, both outwardly and inwardly. It reflects the importance of emotional intelligence, calmness, and courtesy within the Palace setting.

 

Gayam Tree: Strength and Balance

The gayam tree represents resilience and stability. It thrives even under harsh conditions, symbolizing steadfastness, purity, and balance in life. This value teaches that individuals entering the Palace should maintain harmony between nature and spirituality.

 

Sawo Kecik: Patience and Virtue

The sawo kecik tree symbolizes patience and perseverance. Its sweet fruit takes a long time to ripen, representing that goodness and wisdom are achieved through time and effort. In Javanese philosophy, the word sawo is associated with refinement and gentleness. Though modest in appearance, the fruit’s sweetness and nutritional value reflect the idea that a person’s true worth lies in their words and actions, not in outward appearance—echoing the Javanese proverb, “Ajining diri saka lathi, ajining raga saka busana” (One’s dignity comes from their speech, one’s honor from their attire).

 

Kepel: A Symbol of Purity, Grace, and the Soul of a Warrior

The kepel tree holds profound meaning in Javanese royal culture. It symbolizes purity and inner fragrance—traits of a person who is virtuous, gentle, and pure-hearted. The kepel also embodies the noble qualities of a Javanese warrior, summarized in four philosophical principles: nyawiji (unity and harmony), greget (enthusiasm), sengguh (self-confidence), and ora mingkuh (responsibility and perseverance).

Philosophically, these four values represent stages of a warrior’s inner journey—beginning with unity and dedication to one’s duty (nyawiji), fostering passion and commitment (greget), building confidence (sengguh), and culminating in integrity (ora mingkuh), which signifies resilience in the face of challenges. Within the Palace, kepel trees are typically planted in sacred areas or near the keputren (the royal women’s residence). Being a rare species, its conservation is carried out by the Palace in collaboration with supporting institutions to ensure its preservation.

Beyond their symbolic and ecological meanings, many plants are also used in traditional ceremonies and daily activities within the Palace, reflecting a balance of local wisdom, cultural symbolism, and environmental sustainability.

A notable example is the Yasa Peksi Burak ceremony, held to commemorate the Prophet Muhammad’s Isra Mi’raj. In this ritual, the Palace creates a bird replica symbolizing Buraq, the Prophet’s mythical mount, crafted from pomelo peel. The base of the figure is decorated with a nest made of pacar leaves and layers of fruits, representing beauty and prosperity.

Other traditional practices, such as thanksgiving ceremonies, feature polo-poloan, a classification of foods derived from plants with distinct growth characteristics:

  • Polo Kesimpar: fruits growing along the ground, such as watermelon, melon, and cantaloupe.
  • Polo Pendem: underground crops like yam, cassava, potato, taro, and peanut.
  • Polo Gantung: fruits growing above ground, hanging from trees such as mango, guava, pomelo, and grape.
In addition to ceremonial use, plants also play practical roles in daily palace life. For instance, tamarind is used for cleaning royal carriages to enhance their durability, while lime and young coconut water are employed to cleanse royal heirlooms (keris) during the sacred month of Suro. These practices reflect how the Yogyakarta Palace preserves harmony between nature, spirituality, and tradition—continuing the legacy of ecological and cultural wisdom passed down through generations.

The meeting with Ibu Amirul and Bapak Irmawan left a profound impression on the students. They gained valuable insights into the use of plants and animals within the Palace and their connection to Javanese culture. The students came to appreciate the deep philosophy embedded in these traditions and their relevance to both ecological balance and cultural identity.

Ethnobiological knowledge passed down through generations represents a vital form of local wisdom that must be sustained. Through this study visit, students learned from the Palace’s conservation initiatives aimed at preserving rare and culturally significant plants. As Biology students of UGM, they felt a moral responsibility to contribute to the preservation of Indonesia’s native biodiversity.

Interactive and contextual learning experiences such as this not only enrich academic understanding but also foster a deeper appreciation for nature and culture. The activity left a lasting impression and inspired students to continue engaging in meaningful field-based learning.

This activity also aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably Goal 4 (Quality Education) through contextual learning based on local wisdom, Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) through the preservation of cultural values and traditions, and Goal 15 (Life on Land) through the conservation of biodiversity and rare plant species within the Palace grounds. Thus, this activity not only strengthens students’ academic insight but also supports tangible contributions to sustainable development in Indonesia (GAL/ZR).

The activity was attended by graduate students from the Master’s Program in Biology, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, namely Mahyono Hassanudin, Ogilvy Galang Rizki, Arbiatun Nurlaili Assyifa, Syarafina Azzahra, Naufal Rafif Zain, Inez Maylida, and Ani Saputri.

Biothoprak 2025 of the Faculty of Biology UGM Presents the Play “Ande-Ande Lumuten” as Part of the 14th Lustrum and 70th Anniversary Celebration

News Release Monday, 22 September 2025

Yogyakarta, 19 September 2025 – For the first time, the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), staged the spectacular Biothoprak 2025 art performance as part of the celebration of its 14th Lustrum and 70th Anniversary. Held in front of Al-Hayat Mosque at the Faculty of Biology, the performance brought to life the classic folklore “Ande-Ande Lumuten”, creatively adapted with modern elements and rich moral values.

Biothoprak is a traditional Indonesian theatrical art, and this year the Faculty of Biology UGM successfully presented a remarkable collaboration between lecturers, students, staff, and alumni. The performance became a platform for intergenerational togetherness within the academic community, reflecting the spirit of kinship that has long been a hallmark of the Faculty. “Through Biothoprak, we aim not only to provide entertainment but also to convey the importance of culture, unity, and the noble values of our nation. This year, we chose the play Ande-Ande Lumuten, which carries meaningful messages of honesty, loyalty, and kindness,” said Prof. Dr. Budi S. Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM.

The Ande-Ande Lumuten performance was enhanced with modern stage design, creative costumes, and multimedia technology, offering the audience a refreshing theatrical experience. The enthusiasm of the audience was evident, with more than 1.000 onsite attendees, including lecturers and their families, staff members with their families, retirees, alumni, students, and the general public. In addition, hundreds of viewers joined online via the Faculty of Biology’s YouTube channel. The celebration was further enlivened with exciting door prizes and traditional Jogja culinary treats, including angkringan dishes and live-cooked noodles.

As part of the 70th Anniversary of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Biothoprak 2025 was not only a cultural performance but also a realization of the values of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly: SDG 4: Quality Education – through collaborative, intergenerational learning, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – by preserving and revitalizing local culture, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – through synergy between the academic community, alumni, and society.

The event was warmly received by the academic community, alumni, and the wider public, serving as a vibrant closing highlight of the 14th Lustrum and 70th Anniversary of the Faculty of Biology UGM, held under the overarching theme “Biology for Environment and Humanity.”

UGM–ANU Collaboration Produces First Graduate of Biology Double Degree Program

News Release Tuesday, 26 August 2025

Yogyakarta, August 26, 2025 –The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), celebrates a historic milestone as Sabut Kharisona, B.Sc. (hons.) (IUP cohort 2021), officially becomes the first graduate of the International Undergraduate Program (IUP) Biology with a Double Degree (DD) scheme.


Sabut embarked on his double degree journey in the Fall Semester of 2023/2024 at the College of Science, Australian National University (ANU)—a globally renowned research university. During his studies at ANU, he not only pursued academic excellence but also actively engaged in diverse research and cultural activities.

In 2023, Sabut participated in a prestigious Summer Research Internship with the Research School of Biology, College of Science ANU, where he gained hands-on experience in cutting-edge biological research. Beyond the laboratory, he served as a Residential Mentor at Lena Karmel Lodge, providing guidance and support to fellow international students. Furthermore, he showcased Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage by leading the Sedulur Monco Gamelan Ensemble in Canberra.

Sabut completed his study program through a final project entitled: “Effects of Temperature Variability Across Habitat Scales on Animal Distribution and Adaptation”, a research topic that highlights urgent global issues of climate change and species adaptation. His work strongly aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 13: Climate Action and SDGs 15: Life on Land.

Reflecting on his achievement, Sabut expressed his gratitude:

“I am grateful that the Biology IUP UGM has established collaboration with ANU, which gave me the opportunity to pursue a double degree program at ANU. This experience has broadened my academic perspective and built invaluable international networks.”

The Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi S. Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., emphasized the significance of this achievement:

“Sabut is the first graduate of the Biology IUP Double Degree program. This marks the Faculty of Biology UGM’s strong commitment to providing international exposure for our students, and we will continue to enhance such opportunities in the future.”

Sabut Kharisona’s accomplishment is not only a personal success but also a cornerstone for the Faculty of Biology UGM in advancing world-class, inclusive, and sustainable education. This achievement also strengthens the faculty’s commitment to supporting SDGs 4: Quality Education and SDGs 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

The INUCoST Team of the Faculty of Biology Conducted High Conservation Areas Survey in The Buffer Zone of Nusantara Capital City

News Release Wednesday, 23 July 2025

Team of Working Package (WP) 1 INUCoST (Indonesia-Netherlands Universities Consortium for Sustainable Futures) which is coordinated by Prof. Dr. Ratna Susandarini, M.Sc. has successfully conducted field survey for High Conservation Value Areas in Muara Jawa Subdistrict, Kutai Kartanegara Regency, Province of East Kalimantan. The survey was conducted in July 14 – 18, 2025. The team was consisted of lecturers and students from Universitas Gadjah Mada and Universitas Mulawarman (Unmul). Team members from UGM were lecturers and students from Faculty of Biology, Center for Land Resource Management Studies, and Faculty of Forestry, while team members from Unmul were the lecturers from the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences. Field activity was consisted by Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and biodiversity survey around mangrove forest of Mahakam River Delta, Subdistrict of Muara Jawa.


FGD was conducted with university partner (Unmul) and stakeholders. Representatives of Unmul were lecturers from Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences and staffs from The Governing Body for Research and Community Services of Unmul (Lembaga Penelitian dan Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat). Stakeholders invited were all stakeholders responsible for HCV valuation in East Kalimantan Province, e.g. Natural Resources Conservation Agency (Balai Konservasi Sumber Daya Alam), Office of Environmental Services (Dinas Lingkungan Hidup), Office of Forestry Services (Dinas Kehutanan), Office of Food Security, Crops, and Horticulture (Dinas Pangan, Tanaman Pangan, dan Hortikultura), and Office of Marine and Fishery (Dinas Kelautan dan Perikanan). The FGD was done to collect baseline data for biodiversity and its conservation in East Kalimantan Province, especially in Muara Jawa Subdistrict.

Field survey was done around Mahakam River Delta and the settlements surrounding. The exploration of mangrove forest was done in Muara Kembang Village (kelurahan) administrative region to understand the flora and fauna diversity in the region. Biodiversity survey was done to assess the HCV points, i.e. HCV 1 (Species Diversity), HCV 2 (Ecosystem, Landscape Level Mosaic, and Intact Forest Landscape), and HCV 3 (Ecosystem and Habitat) in Muara Jawa Subdistrict. The next field activity done was visitation to Agroforestry Community Counselor (Penyuluh Swadaya Kelompok Tani Hutan) of Mahakam Delta to gain information regarding the community empowerment done by the Agroforestry Community. The visit was done to assess the HCV 5 point (Community Needs) of Muara Jawa Subdistrict.

Another visit was done in Office of Handil II Port, Muara Jawa Pesisir Village. In the visitation, the team was conducting discussions with staffs of the Department of Transportations (Dinas Perhubungan) to collect informations regarding survey locations and informant contacts to be interviewed for HCV assessment. Visit to the Leader of the Farmer and Agricultural Affairs Community (Gabungan Kelompok Tani/Gapoktan) of the Muara Jawa Ulu Village was done to assess information regarding agricultural products and welfare of the farmers in the region. Mangrove forest exploration was conducted in administrative regions of Muara Jawa Pesisir Village and Muara Pegah Hamlet, Muara Jawa Tengah Village. Two activities were done in Muara Pegah Hamlet, i.e. flora and fauna exploration and visitation to the Community Chief (Ketua RT) to collect baseline data regarding social and economic conditions of the people of Muara Pegah Hamlet. The visits to the Leader of Gapoktan and Ketua RT was done to assess information for HCV 5 point.

The series of activities done were successfully collected important data regarding the HCV points. From the flora and fauna survey, it can be concluded that Muara Jawa Subdistrict is a highly important area for conservation. In that subdistrict, a protected species of primate could be found, i.e. proboscis monkey (bekantan/Nasalis larvatus) inhabits a specific mangrove forest found in Mahakam River Delta. Besides becoming home for the primates, mangrove forests also useful as a source of livelihood for local people around the delta. Interviews with stakeholders of Muara Jawa Subdistrict resulted in important data that represented socio-economic condition of the people in the area. (BK)

Sustainable Development Goals points:
11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
12: Responsible Consumption and Production
13: Climate Action
14: Live Below Water
15: Live on Land

Innovation in Mosquito Control: Biological Approaches and Essential Oils for a Healthier Environment in Dusun Belimbing Sari

Community Service Saturday, 19 July 2025

The Community Service program of the UGM Faculty of Biology was held again on Friday, July 18, 2025, at the Balai Dusun Belimbing Sari in Caturtunggal Village, Depok, Sleman. Under the banner “Mosquito Vector Control through Biological Approaches and the Use of Essential Oils,” the event welcomed 35 enthusiastic local PKK members to participate in a series of engaging lectures and hands‑on sessions.

The Desa Mitra Caturtunggal teaching team included Dr. Dra. Rr. Upiek Ngesti W.A., B.Sc., DAP&E, M.Biomed (Animal Systematics Laboratory); Woro Anindito Sri Tunjung, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D (Biochemistry Laboratory); Nur Indah Septiani, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D (Animal Structure & Development Laboratory); and Sari Darmasiwi, S.Si., M.Biotech., Ph.D (Microbiology Laboratory).

Dr. Dra. Rr. Upiek Ngesti W.A. opened the program with an in‑depth overview of mosquito species and the dangerous vector‑borne diseases they transmit—such as dengue fever and malaria—along with their habitat and life cycle. She detailed biological control strategies using fish and other predators, physical measures via the “3M” method (emptying, covering, burying), and preventive chemical fogging. Her comprehensive presentation gave participants a clear understanding of the need to integrate multiple control methods.

The second session, led by Woro Anindito Sri Tunjung, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., dove into the use of essential oils as natural mosquito repellents. In a style both lighthearted and informative, Dr. Woro defined what essential oils are, introduced various plant sources—such as lemongrass, kaffir lime, and basil—and outlined two practical approaches: planting repellent species in home gardens and crafting natural room fresheners. Participants were keen to follow her simple distillation steps and discuss how to apply them at home.

The highlight of the day was the hands‑on workshop, where attendees created aromatic sachets from dried ingredients—clove buds and stems, star anise, and lemongrass—packaged in rustic burlap bags. These sachets proved easy to make, cost‑effective, and both decorative and functional as mosquito deterrents. Light conversation and sharing of tips on preserving the scent for longer added warmth and camaraderie to the event.

Through this activity, the Faculty of Biology UGM puts into practice its Tri Dharma of Higher Education, particularly community service, while also supporting the Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 3 (Good Health and Well‑being), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). It is hoped that the knowledge and skills gained will foster sustainable mosquito control efforts in Dusun Belimbing Sari and strengthen the community’s environmental health.

FACULTY OF BIOLOGY ATTEND THE RI-SING UNIVERSITY NETWORK FACULTY IMMERSION PROGRAM AT NANYANG UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY- SINGAPORE

News Release Friday, 18 July 2025

Singapore (July 16th), The RI-SING University Network Faculty Immersion Program is a collaboration between five leading universities in Indonesia (UGM, UI, ITB, IPB, and ITS) and five universities in Singapore: Nanyang Technological University (NTU), National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore Management University (SMU), Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS), Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), and Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT). This program aims to strengthen collaboration and build relationships between universities in Indonesia and Singapore. The Faculty Immersion Program held from July 14-16, 2025, at NTU Singapore, aimed to explore research and project collaborations between NTU and five leading Indonesian universities in the fields of food science, food security & agritech, and sustainability in the life and social sciences.

This program was well-planned and engaging, managed by NTU International Engagement, with a professional staff overseeing the program’s rundown. Twenty-five participants from five universities were invited to attend presentations and discussions with schools leaders at NTU. The first day was filled with introductions to the entire NTU International Engagement team, INSPIRASI (Associate Prof. Dalton Tay), and resource persons who would present research materials. The second and third days were filled by schools leaders, including: Prof. Md. Saidul Islam from the School of Social Sciences; Prof. Viswanathan S. from the Business School; Prof. Peter Preiser from the School of Biological Sciences; Prof. Yusuf Ali from Experimental Medicine; Associate Prof. Tan Lay Poh from the School of Materials Science and Engineering; Associate Prof. Janice Lee, Dr. Shawn Lum, Assistant Prof. Yi Wen Zeng, and Assistant Prof. Pierre Taillardat from the Asian School of Environmental Science. NTU also provided opportunities for program participants to visit the INSPIRASI Laboratory, the Vertical Farming Laboratory at Sky Green, the Botanical Garden of Singapore, the MSE Laboratory, and the Tropical Ecology Laboratory.

Universitas Gadjah Mada, as a member of the RI-Sing University Network Faculty Program consortium, sent five lecturers to this program, one of whom was Dr. Dwi Umi Siswanti, S.Si., M.Si. from the Faculty of Biology. Dwi, in addition to her expertise in sustainable agriculture, is also a member of the Faculty of Biology’s Organic Waste Management Task Force and a member of the Waste Management Team at PIAT UGM. Dwi took this opportunity to have an in-depth discussion with Prof. Dalton from INSPIRASI. INSPIRASI is a collaborative research and education program initiated by the Ministry of Education of Singapore (MOECRT) and the Indonesian Ministry of Research, Technology, and Higher Education for five raising universities: Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), University of Indonesia (UI), Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), Institute of Technology Surabaya (ITS), and NTU. INSPIRASI focuses on smart and sustainable campuses, integrated sustainable waste management systems, and research into environmentally friendly campus technologies. The integrated sustainable waste management program overlaps with the organic waste management programs of the Faculty of Biology and PIAT UGM. Dwi explained that the waste management practices of the Faculty of Biology UGM and the utilisation of waste for organic farming are based on her research. INSPIRASI is interested in establishing a waste management collaboration at UGM.

The INSPIRASI program also offers undergraduate students from UGM to participate in an undergraduate immersion program, a program conducted at both universities. The first three years of study are conducted at UGM (the home university), followed by one year at NTU, resulting in a degree from UGM. This program can be continued with a Postgraduate Immersion program, which involves students adding a year at NTU and earning a Master’s degree from NTU. The NTU Doctoral Program (PhD) also accepts students from INSPIRASI members through two scholarship schemes: the LPDP-NTU PhD Scholarship, which awards 30 doctoral students per year, and the NTU PhD scholarship scheme.

Prof. Preiser from the School of Biological Sciences is offering research collaborations in the molecular mechanisms by which malaria parasites adapt to environmental change and research in food security. Meanwhile, Prof. Jennice Lee and her team are offering research collaborations in biodiversity, peatland restoration, and sustainable agriculture. Furthermore, Prof. Pooi See Lee, NTU’s Vice President of International Engagement, stated, “We sincerely hope this program will foster research collaborations between NTU and five leading universities in Indonesia.” Wanda Preiser, NTU’s Head of Office International Engagement, added, “If you contact one of our researchers, please let us know so we can assist you.” “We will report the results of this meeting to our Dean and hope for research and project collaboration with NTU, particularly regarding waste management at UGM,” Dwi concluded in response to Wanda’s request.

This faculty immersion program supports SDGs 3 (Good Healthy and Well Being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequality), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for The Goals). (DUS)

Community Service Program at Partner Village 2025: Verticulture Cultivation Education for Students of SDN Pusmalang, Wukirsari Village, Cangkringan Subdistrict, Sleman Regency #2

Community ServiceNews Release Wednesday, 16 July 2025

Wukirsari, Cangkringan – June 19, 2025

The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), held a community service activity in Wukirsari Partner Village, Cangkringan, Sleman, Yogyakarta Special Region, on Thursday, June 19, 2025. The activity carried the theme “Vertical Farming Techniques: A Sustainable Urban Farming Solution” and aimed to introduce environmental education to young students.


A total of 24 fourth-grade students from SDN Pusmalang, Sruni Hamlet, enthusiastically participated in the event. The activity began with an introduction to vertical farming techniques by Prof. Dr. Diah Rachmawati, S.Si., M.Si., who explained the importance of innovative farming methods in limited spaces as a solution for modern urban agriculture.

The session continued with a hands-on workshop led by Dr. Aprilia Sufi Subiastuti, S.Si., who guided the students in repurposing used plastic bottles as planting containers for ornamental plants. The students joyfully painted and decorated the bottles based on their own creativity, which were then installed on the school wall as both functional and decorative vertical gardens.

The event was also supported by other lecturers from the Faculty of Biology, including Prof. Rina Sri Kasiamdari, Ph.D., Dr. Dra. Maryani, M.Sc., Utaminingsih, S.Si., M.Sc., and Novita Yustinadiar, S.Si., M.Si., who actively assisted the students throughout the program.

As a form of appreciation and to promote sustainable habits, all participants received door prizes in the form of reusable tumblers, encouraging the students to reduce the use of single-use plastic bottles in their daily lives.

Through this initiative, the Faculty of Biology UGM reinforces its commitment to community empowerment while instilling environmental awareness in the younger generation. Practical education like this is expected to be the first step toward a greener and more sustainable lifestyle. This activity contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 13: Climate Action, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

Opening and Courtesy Dinner of the International Summer Course: A Collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and the University of Technology Sydne

News Release Tuesday, 1 July 2025

Yogyakarta, June 30, 2025

The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), officially launched the International Summer Course on Sustainable Fisheries and Marine Biodiversity Conservation through a warm and welcoming courtesy dinner held on Monday, June 30, 2025, at Ikan Bakar Cianjur (IBC) Restaurant, Palagan, Yogyakarta. This event marked a significant occasion in welcoming seven students from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), who will participate in a 26-day program filled with academic and cultural activities in and around Yogyakarta. This program is sponsored by the New Colombo Plan.

The opening ceremony was attended by leaders from both UGM and UTS, including Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM; Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs; Dr. Tyas Ikhsan Hikmawan, Head of the Office of International Affairs (OIA) UGM; and Dr. Nur Indah Septriani, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., Head of the OIA of the Faculty of Biology UGM. Representing UTS was Dr. Megan Murray, accompanying academic staff of the summer course. Also present were Dr. Wulan Rahmiati, M.Hum., Program Coordinator of INCULS UGM; Destina Kawanti, S.Si., M.IP., Head of Partnership and KKN Program Task Force at the Directorate of Community Service (DPkM) UGM. The event was also attended by student liaison officers (LOs) and organizing committee members from the Faculty of Biology, UGM, who will accompany the international guests throughout their stay.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono emphasized that this program reflects UGM’s strong commitment to promoting international collaboration that addresses sustainability issues, particularly in the areas of fisheries and marine biodiversity conservation. He also highlighted the importance of cross-cultural engagement and active student participation in community-based activities, in line with UGM’s holistic approach to education.

Dr. Wulan Rahmiati added that beyond academic content, the participants will receive contextual learning through Indonesian language classes and cultural immersion facilitated by INCULS. This language training serves as an important gateway to fostering meaningful interaction between participants and the local community.

Dr. Megan Murray expressed her sincere appreciation for the warm welcome extended by UGM. She conveyed that the UTS students are enthusiastic not only to learn academically but also to immerse themselves in the rich social, cultural, and natural landscapes of Indonesia, particularly its renowned biodiversity.

Closing the ceremony, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono expressed his hope that the program would serve as a platform for knowledge exchange, the strengthening of international networks, and the cultivation of cross-national awareness regarding environmental issues—especially those concerning marine and coastal ecosystems. He further emphasized the crucial role of youth in building a sustainable future through education, research, and community engagement.

Over the next month, participants will take part in various activities including Indonesian language classes at INCULS, community service projects in collaboration with UGM’s KKN program, online lectures by academic experts from institutions such as Universitas Gadjah Mada, University of Technology Sydney, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Chiba University, University of Leiden, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Universitas Hasanuddin, etc.The program also features field excursions to Porok Beach, permaculture training at Bumi Langit, visits to the Biology Museum, and cultural explorations to significant historical sites such as Prambanan Temple, Sojiwan Temple, Sonobudoyo Museum, the Yogyakarta Palace, Kotagede, the Royal Cemetery in Imogiri, etc.

The evening concluded on a warm and friendly note, symbolizing the beginning of a vibrant journey of cross-cultural and interdisciplinary learning that promises to enrich the academic and personal experiences of all participants.

This program also contributes significantly to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) through cross-cultural learning and global student capacity-building; SDG 14 (Life Below Water) by fostering understanding and conservation of marine biodiversity; SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through international collaboration between UGM and UTS; and SDGs 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and 13 (Climate Action) through community service, permaculture field visits, and efforts to raise awareness on sustainable natural resource management. [Nur Indah Septriani]

 

Strengthening Alumni Ties: Genza Education Collaborates with UGM Biology Faculty for Education and Lustrum XIV

News Release Friday, 20 June 2025

Yogyakarta, June 20, 2025 — In a continued effort to strengthen collaboration in the field of education, the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held a strategic partnership meeting with PT Genza Edukasi Indonesia on Thursday, June 19, 2025. The meeting, held in the KPTU Meeting Room of the Faculty of Biology, marked an important step toward building cooperation to support student development in the field of biology.


The meeting was attended by M. Syamsul Maarif, President Director of PT Genza Edukasi Indonesia, and Agung Supriyawan, Director of Marketing & IT at PT Genza Edukasi Indonesia. Representing the Faculty of Biology UGM were Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty; Dr. Ganies Riza Aristya, S.Si., M.Sc., Chair of the 14th Lustrum Committee; Titin Fauziah, S.E., MBA., Head of the Administrative, Financial, and General Affairs Team; and Annisa Mawarni, S.Si.

In a warm and collaborative discussion, several key areas of partnership were explored. These included the implementation of the Genza Olympiad, support in providing competition judges, organizing “Road to UGM” student visits to the Faculty of Biology, and the development of educational publication materials targeted at school students.

Beyond programmatic collaboration, Genza Education also expressed its commitment to contribute funding to support the 14th Lustrum of the Faculty of Biology UGM, set to take place this year. This donation serves as a meaningful gesture of alumni support, as M. Syamsul Maarif, the President Director of Genza Education, is an alumnus of the Faculty of Biology, class of 1994.

Prof. Budi Setiadi Daryono welcomed the collaboration with great enthusiasm. “We truly appreciate the support from Genza Education, particularly in relation to the 14th Lustrum and efforts to introduce UGM Biology to the younger generation. This is a tangible example of how alumni contribute to the advancement of their alma mater,” he stated.

This partnership is expected to be the beginning of a sustainable collaboration and an inspiration for other alumni and partners to contribute to the advancement of education alongside the Faculty of Biology UGM.

Dutch Master’s Student Completes Research Internship at Faculty of Biology UGM

News Release Friday, 20 June 2025

The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), recently concluded a collaborative internship program with Jens van Bijsterveld, a Master’s student from the Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science (LIACS), the Netherlands. Over the past five months, Jens has been engaged in a research internship focused on genome sequencing, assembly, and annotation of Rasbora lateristriata, a freshwater fish species native to Yogyakarta.


During his time in Yogyakarta, Jens was supervised by a team of distinguished mentors: Prof. Dr. Fons Verbeek and Prof. Dr. Herman P. Spaink from Leiden University, as well as Prof. Dr. Bambang Retnoaji and Dr. Luthfi Nurhidayat from the Faculty of Biology UGM.

At just 22 years old, Jens already shows a strong enthusiasm for bioinformatics and research. His journey to UGM began when he expressed an interest in conducting his Master’s thesis abroad. With the support of his supervisor Prof. Verbeek, and through a connection with Prof. Spaink, Jens was introduced to the research team at UGM. “Like I said, I was lucky,” Jens shared.

Jens took part in a project to generate a reference genome for Rasbora lateristriata. It was a valuable opportunity to turn theory into practice. “After learning so much theory about genome sequencing and assembly algorithms, I really enjoyed finally applying it in a real research context,” he explained.

This internship also played a significant role in affirming Jens’s passion for research. “I already knew I enjoyed doing research back in Leiden, but the experience at UGM truly showed me how much I love being part of the scientific process—no matter where it’s conducted,” he said. Jens also emphasized the benefits of international experience in academia, especially in an increasingly global research environment.

Jens gained a wide range of experiences—not only scientific, but personal and cultural. From navigating Yogyakarta traffic on a motorbike to adapting to a more flexible concept of time, he found the learning experience went far beyond technical skills. “In the Netherlands, we often fixate on punctuality, while life here is much more relaxed and adaptive—which I actually love,” he noted. He even picked up a new hobby: making jewelry!

Jens expressed his deep appreciation for the people he worked with during his internship. “I absolutely loved everyone here. No complaints,” he said warmly. Although initially surprised by Yogyakarta’s bustling urban life and unfamiliar environment, he soon grew fond of the city’s character and lifestyle. “Compared to other Indonesian cities I visited, Yogyakarta is surprisingly well-organized, and the abundance of cozy cafés and restaurants was a big plus.”

Beyond the lab, Jens immersed himself in Indonesian culture. “I truly loved the food—especially lotek and the weird tofu that Luthfi makes,” he joked. One of his favorite memories was a long motorbike trip to the beach, where he experienced everyday life in Java along the way.

As his internship comes to an end, Jens reflects on the kindness of the people he met and the experiences he gained. “What I’ll remember most are the amazing interactions I’ve had with everyone here,” he said. He encourages other international students to take up similar opportunities—but with an open mind and a willingness to embrace cultural differences. “It’s an amazing experience, but be prepared for how different life is here compared to Europe. It takes some getting used to.”

The Faculty of Biology UGM is proud to have hosted Jens van Bijsterveld and looks forward to fostering more international research collaborations in the future.