SDG 15 : Advance Life On Land

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Open Senate Meeting of the Faculty of Biology in 2024, Highlights the Importance of Biology in Biodiversity in Indonesia and the World

News Release Monday, 23 September 2024

Yogyakarta, September 19, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology UGM held the Open Senate Meeting in 2024 at the Auditorium of Tropical Biology with the theme “Biologi Berkarya, Biologi Mendunia” (Biology Create, Biology Goes Global). The Open Senate Meeting was also the peak event of the series of celebrations for the 69th Anniversary of the Faculty of Biology UGM. The meeting was attended by the senate, deans, lecturers, education staff and student representatives of Faculty of Biology UGM, as well as invited guests, alumni, partners, and Dharma Wanita of the Faculty of Biology UGM.

Prof. Dr. Suwarno Hadisusanto, S.U. as the Chairperson of the Senate of the Faculty of Biology UGM opened the Senate Meeting and continued with singing the songs “Indonesia Raya”, “Hymne Gadjah Mada”, and “Mars Biologi” as well as a joint prayer led by Tyas Ikhsan Hikmawan, Ph.D.

Prof. dr. Ova Emilia, M.Med. Ed., Sp.OG (K), Ph.D., Rector of Universitas Gadjah Mada also attended the Senate Open Meeting and then delivered her remarks. “Since its inception, the Faculty of Biology has had a mandate to preserve biodiversity in Indonesia, including promoting work and innovation in sustainable development,” said Prof. Ova in her remarks (19/9). The Rector also expressed her appreciation to the Faculty of Biology in initiating the strengthening of the Indonesian Biodiversity Index, Biodiversity Credit and the pioneering of the Biodiversity Curator Profession.

Next, the Integrated Genome Factory (IGF) service was launched by the Rector of Universitas Gadjah Mada, accompanied by the Dean and Chair of the Senate of the Faculty of Biology UGM and Mrs. Erlina Vera Ratu from the Satriabudi Dharma Setia Foundation. Integrated Genome Factory (IGF) is an integrated DNA/RNA sequencing service unit at the Faculty of Biology UGM. With support from Panin Bank and the Satriabudi Dharma Setia Foundation, IGF uses the long-read sequencing platform from Nanopore Technology to provide the largest sequencing service in Indonesia. The presence of IGF is expected to make UGM a pioneer university in the application of nanopore technology and open up new opportunities for research development in various fields.

Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. as the Dean of the Faculty of Biology then delivered his remarks and the Annual Report of the Faculty of Biology UGM. He explained that the Faculty of Biology has shown its position in the international arena and has succeeded in maintaining its position at 501-550 in the world for Biological Science, and is the best in Indonesia based on the QS World Ranking. Prof. Budi further explained the role of Biology that continues to develop from the fields of Evolution, Biotechnology, to Ecology, and it’s very large role in efforts to preserve biodiversity, especially in Indonesia. The Faculty of Biology also supports these efforts through the initiation of the Indonesian Biodiversity Index and the establishment of the Biodiversity Curator Professional Program. The implementation of Biodiversity Credit is also carried out together with partners of the Faculty of Biology. This is in line with support for the achievements of the Sustainable Development Program (SDGs), especially in improving the quality of inclusive education (SDG 4), handling climate change (SDG 13), preserving ecosystems on land and sea (SDG 14 and SDG 15).

The improvement of education quality in accordance with SDG 4 is also demonstrated by the Faculty of Biology which has successfully maintained ASIIN international accreditation for its Bachelor and Master programs. This year, the Faculty of Biology UGM has also successfully launched the Biodiversity Curator Profession Program with 17 students with Bachelor to Doctoral educational backgrounds. In 2024, the Faculty of Biology will send 7 students for a Double Degree program with Leeds University UK, as well as dozens of other students participating in exchange programs with the Sakura Science scheme, Student Mobility, Student Exchange JASSO, or student exchange programs organized by UGM. A total of 3 students are participating in the fast-track bachelor-master program. Student achievements also continue to increase in the international and national arenas. The Faculty of Biology continues to improve the quality of research through the support of adequate facilities, including through the procurement of assets and the PUAPT (Inter-University Center of Excellence) grant scheme for various laboratory facilities that support biological research. The support of the Faculty of Biology’s human resources is also demonstrated by the increase in the number of lecturers and professors, as well as various routine programs to improve the quality of human resources.

Furthermore, the achievements of the number of research, achievements of international publications of lecturers of the Faculty of Biology, and the development of journals published by the Faculty of Biology, including the Journal of Tropical Biotechnology and Biodiversity (JTBB) indexed by Scopus Q3 and Berkala Ilmiah Biologi which has ISSN. Data on the increase in community service and cooperation both at the international and national levels were also presented. International publications of lecturers of the Faculty of Biology have continued to increase, especially in Q1 journals in the last 3 years. In improving the quality of education, the Faculty of Biology has collaborated with various world institutions to present 33 visiting professors and 7 adjunct professors during this period. Double degree collaboration has also continued to be improved, and so far, has succeeded in sending students for double undergraduate degrees at the Australian National University, and Leeds University, as well as double doctoral degrees at Montpellier France, University of Greifswald Germany, and Boku University Austria. Various programs that support research and cooperation are implemented, including the 8th National Seminar on Tropical Biology and the 7th International Summer Course on Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development which were attended by hundreds of participants from various institutions and countries, Research Day, BIOENTRI (Biology Open House and Introduction to Research Topics), as well as the first Business Gathering in collaboration with Prasetiya Mulya University and attended by dozens of partners.

The next Scientific Speech was delivered by Prof. dr. Erik H. J. Danen, Dean of Graduate School, Faculty of Science, Leiden University. He presented his latest research entitled “Advanced 3D co-culture models for mechanistic studies an

d drug testing in the context of fibrosis and cancer”. In the speech, Prof. Erik conveyed the focus of his research in the development of 3D models for cancer testing.

Furthermore, the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement regarding the Joint Doctoral Degree with the Faculty of Science, Leiden University was carried out by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. accompanied by the Chair of the Senate, Prof. Dr. Suwarno Hadi Susanto. On that occasion, Prof. Budi said that the collaboration was one of the efforts of the Faculty of Biology in increasing recognition in the international arena.

The Senate Open Meeting ended with a closing by the Chair of the Senate of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Suwarno Hadisusanto, S.U. It is hoped that the Open Meeting agenda as part of the celebration of the 69th Anniversary of the Faculty of Biology can spark the enthusiasm of the academic community so that the Faculty of Biology can continue to develop and provide benefits to the nation and state.

Highlighting Environmental Issues from Industrial Waste, UGM Biology Student Wins 3rd Place in National Essay Competition

Achivements Monday, 23 September 2024

Kotimah, an undergraduate student from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), class of 2022, has secured 3rd place in the Perta Event Essay Competition organized by IPB University. The Perta Event is open to students from universities across Indonesia and aims to foster critical thinking and analytical skills in addressing major societal issues as part of the national vision for Indonesia Emas 2045.

The Perta Event carried the theme “Smart Generation, Brilliant Future,” focusing on the role of Generation Z in generating innovative solutions to challenges in various sectors, including the environment, education, technology, socio-culture, and food security. The competition commenced on August 13, 2024, and included administration selection, essay submission, and finalist presentations. Kotimah’s essay, which focused on the pressing issue of industrial pollution, particularly from synthetic dye waste, was shortlisted as one of the top five entries. She was invited to present her ideas virtually on September 17, 2024. Her essay highlighted the growing environmental threat posed by industrial pollutants, specifically the harmful impact of synthetic dyes on ecosystems.

In her proposal, Kotimah introduced a novel solution by utilizing microbes derived from the fermentation of tea and sucrose solutions as a natural dye alternative. This microbial fermentation process offers an eco-friendly and sustainable substitute for synthetic dyes, with potential applications ranging from small-scale community initiatives to large-scale industrial production. Kotimah’s innovative approach aims to reduce the environmental footprint of industrial processes while promoting sustainable practices that align with long-term ecological conservation goals.

Kotimah expressed her hope that this microbial-based natural dye technology could be adopted widely in Indonesia, contributing to a more sustainable industrial system and supporting the creation of a greener future. Her achievement reflects UGM’s commitment to developing student talent and fostering innovative research solutions to address pressing environmental challenges.

This recognition not only underscores Kotimah’s academic excellence but also highlights the Faculty of Biology UGM’s dedication to empowering students to actively contribute to sustainable environmental solutions on both national and global scales.

Socialization of the Maintenance and Potential of Maron Chicken Eggs in Dusun Pajangan, Wedomartani, Ngemplak, Sleman, Yogyakarta

Community Service Sunday, 22 September 2024

On September 21, 2024, Dr. drh. Hendry Trisakti Saragih, M.P., from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, delivered a presentation on the proper maintenance of maron chickens to the residents of Dusun Pajangan, Wedomartani, Ngemplak, Sleman, Yogyakarta. The event was opened with remarks from Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes., who explained that the collaboration between the Faculty of Biology, UGM, and Dusun Pajangan has been ongoing since 2019 and also involves students from the Faculty of Biology, UGM. In 2024, the community service programs in Dusun Pajangan include the Desa Mitra and MBKM-PkM Programs. The RW 16 village head, Mr. Sumadi, expressed his support for the program, which is coordinated by Mr. Gunardi, S.Si., the head of the Takmir Masjid Jami’ Darussalam Pajangan.

During this event as one of the activity series of Desa Mitra Grand in Wedomartani Village, Dr. Hendry explained the management of maron chickens, including the ideal cage design and the production of simple feed utilizing organic waste from the surrounding environment. Maron chickens, a crossbreed between Arab hens and Lingnan roosters, grow faster than local chickens and begin laying eggs at the age of seven months. The potential of maron chickens to boost the local economy is significant, as their eggs resemble local chicken eggs and can be sold at a higher price.

The cultivation of maron chickens aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including no. 1, no poverty, as maron chickens can lay eggs relatively quickly in large quantities and are highly marketable. It also supports no. 2, zero hunger, and no. 3, good health and well-being, as maron chicken eggs can be used to meet family nutritional needs. Moreover, this initiative contributes to SDG no. 12, responsible consumption and production, as the maintenance of maron chickens not only reduces organic waste but also produces manure useful for plants. The participants were highly engaged during the discussion, particularly about feed production and the idea of establishing a “chicken posyandu” for community care and oversight of chickens.

Sendari Community are Enthusiast on Learning Biopory Absroption Holes in One Health Socialization Activities by PkM-MBKM Faculty of Biology UGM 2024.

Community Service Wednesday, 18 September 2024

Yogyakarta, 15th September 2024 – The Community Service Team Program Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (PkM MBKM) Faculty of Biology UGM held community empowerment activities at Sendari, Cebongan, Tirtoadi, Sleman. This activity was led by three lecturers from Faculty of Biology UGM such as Novita Yustinadiar, M.Sc., Woro Anindito Sri Tanjung, Ph.D., and Wahyu Aristyaning Putri, Ph.D., and also supported by 13 students. The program, titled, One Health : Introduction to Biopory Absorption Holes, is implemented with the aim to increase environmental awareness and encourage people to actively participate in preserving nature through simple solutions and big impacts.

The activity, which took place at the house of the Head of RT 03 Sendari, started at 14.00 until 16.00 WIB. This socialization focused on introducing the One Health Concept through the use of biopory absorption holes. Biopory plays an important role by helping to reduce waterlogging, improving soil quality and supporting ecosystem balance. Participants, which are members of PKK, are expected to understand the importance of biopory absorption holes as an environmentally friendly solution which is applicable in daily life.

The event began with remarks from Mrs. Priwanti as Head of Dukuh, followed by the socialization material from Wahyu Aristyaning Putri, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., who explained the definition of biopory, the maintenance and the function for the environment. Mrs. Putri also shared her experience in using biopory at home and how the great benefits obtained. She emphasized that biopores are not only more efficient as water absorption but also increase soil fertility and prevent flooding in urban and rural areas. Continue with the presentation by the students of the material by highlighting the background information of the idea, working principles, how to make biopsy absorption holes, the ideal location for placing the biopores and various types of biopores that are applicable at home.

As part of the activity, participants were invited to directly demonstrate in the making of biopory absorption holes. They were divided into three groups where each group was given the tas of making one to two biopore holes around their house. After the demonstration was finished, the PkM-MBKM team gave assessments and awards to the group that showed the best result. Thus, the team also explained how to maintain the biopore so that the biopore will last in long term. Participants also were given guidance on materials that could be inserted into the hole, such as organic waste, which helps to catalyze the decomposition process and maintain the balance of the soil ecosystem.

The program to introduce biopore infiltration has strong relevance to several points in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). First, the biopory itself, helps achieve SDG number 6 which is Clean Water and Adequate Sanitation, by increasing water absorption into the soil and maintaining groundwater quality. Second, biopory supports SDG number 11, which is Sustainable Cities and Settlements, through green infrastructure that reduce the risk of flooding/ Third, biopory contributes to SDG number 13, which is Addressing Climate Change, by help to mitigate the impacts of climate change through better water and land management. Fourth, biopory support SDG number 15 which is Life on Land through increasing soil fertility and conserving soil biodiversity. Last, the application of biopory also relevant to SDG number 3 which is Healthy Lives and Well-being, since it helps to reduce the risk of standing water which may trigger disease.

All in all, the event closed with the distribution of door prizes and prizes for the winner of the Biopory competition. We al hoped that this activity will increase the community’s understanding of the importance of protecting the environment, as well as a real step at Sendari for a healthier and free of puddles of water. With One Health spirit, this program hopes that changes in people’s lifestyles as a positive impact, not only for people’s health but also the surrounding environment.

The Biology UGM Halmahera Walking Shark Research Team Secures Prestigious Grant from the Indonesian Youth Elasmobranch Scholarship (IYES)

News Release Friday, 13 September 2024

Yogyakarta, September 12, 2024, The Biology UGM Halmahera Walking Shark Research Team has been awarded a distinguished research grant under the Indonesian Youth Elasmobranch Scholarship (IYES) program, which is facilitated by Conservation Indonesia and the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). Their study, titled “Diet Analyses and Population Genetic Structure of Hemiscyllium halmahera,” will explore the dietary patterns and genetic structure of the Halmahera Walking Shark, an endemic species that was granted full protection by the Indonesian Ministry of Maritime and Fisheries Affairs in 2023.

The team is led by Calvin Muliawan (Biology 2021), with Andari Sekarningrum (Biology 2020) and Raihan Widarianto Putra (Biology 2020) as team members. They are under the supervision of Dr. Dwi Sendi Priyono, S.Si., M.Si., and Dr. Rury Eprilurahman, S.Si., M.Sc., from the Animal Systematics Laboratory, as well as Akbar Reza, M.Sc., from the Ecology and Conservation Laboratory.

The study is design to achieve two objectives:

Dietary Composition Analysis: This objective involves determining the diet composition of Hemiscyllium halmahera

through fecal DNA (fDNA) metabarcoding, an advanced, non-invasive technique that facilitates the identification of prey species without causing harm or stress to the sharks.

Genetic Population Structure: The study will examine the genetic structure, diversity, and connectivity between populations of

H. halmahera

within the Halmahera region using molecular genetic approaches.

A notable innovation in this research is the use of fDNA cloacal swabs to study the H. halmahera diet, an unprecedented method for

Hemiscyllium halmahera

research. This breakthrough is anticipated to advance future studies on sharks and rays in Indonesia, contributing significantly to national and global elasmobranch conservation.

The study will be conducted from September 2024 through March 2025, and the data generated will be instrumental in developing robust conservation strategies for the Halmahera Walking Shark. Beyond its scientific impact, this research will enhance understanding of shark ecology in Indonesia, promote youth engagement in marine conservation, and contribute to peer-reviewed publications. Moreover, the findings will form part of the team members undergraduate thesis work.

This research aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14: Life Below Water, focusing on the sustainable management and conservation of marine biodiversity. The study also supports SDG 15: Life on Land and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by fostering collaboration with local communities and advancing sustainable research methodologies.

The team expresses profound gratitude to the Indonesian Youth Elasmobranch Scholarship (IYES) for their financial support and to their faculty mentors for providing guidance and expertise throughout the project.

The Faculty of Biology UGM Held Training on Orchid Cultivation for PKK Members from Candi Gebang Permai Residential

News Release Thursday, 12 September 2024

As part of its community service commitment, the Faculty of Biology UGM, in collaboration with the Indonesian Orchid Society (PAI) DIY, organized an “Orchid Cultivation Training” on September 11, 2024, at the RW62 Hall in Candi Gebang Permai, Sleman. The event targeted PKK members from Candi Gebang Permai Residential Jetis Village Sleman Regency. The training aimed to introduce orchid cultivation and care to participants, in line with the 2020-2024 National Development Goals (SDGs) related to gender equality (SDGs No.5), decent work and economic growth (SDGs No.8), responsible consumption and production (SDGs No.12), and life on land (SDGs No.15).

Over 54 enthusiastic PKK members participated, learning about orchid care, propagation, and cultivation management. The event was opened by Abdul Razaq Chasani, S.Si., M.Si., Ph.D., Head of the Tropical Biology Department, Faculty of Biology UGM, with presentations from Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti and Dr. Ixora Mercuriani. This training was guided by an orchid expert from the Faculty of Biology UGM, the Faculty of Mathematics and Science Yogyakarta State University, students, and the Biology Orchid Study Club (BiOSC) members.

The training emphasized orchid characteristics, seed selection, watering, fertilization, pest management, and efficient cultivation techniques. This initiative aims to empower PKK members, promote local resources, and potentially create new business opportunities. The training also demonstrated effective collaboration between academic institutions and local communities.

The Faculty of Biology UGM Organized Stadium Generale on the Future of Palm Oil with a Professor from Lampung University

News Release Tuesday, 10 September 2024

Yogyakarta, September 6, 2024 – The Faculty of Biology Universitas Gadjah Mada organized a stadium generale titled “Superior Palm Oil Plants of the Future: Short, Early-Maturing, High Unsaturated Oil, Compact Palm, Ganoderma-Resistant” featuring Prof. Dr. Ir. Kukuh Setiawan, M.Sc., from Lampung University. Prof. Kukuh, an expert in plant breeding and a renowned breeder of superior palm oil varieties, shared his extensive experience developing high-quality palm oil seedlings.

During the lecture, Prof. Kukuh discussed the challenges and future potential of palm oil, focusing on developing varieties that are shorter, early-maturing, rich in unsaturated oil, compact palm, and resistant to Ganoderma disease. These innovations are crucial for addressing climate change and meeting the growing global demand for sustainable and efficient production. With in-depth research, these superior palm oil seedlings are expected to boost productivity, reduce production costs, and remain environmentally friendly.

The event was hosted by Tiara Amelia Putri, S.Si., and moderated by Dian Sartika, M.Sc., who emphasized the importance of innovation in improving the quality of palm oil seedlings. The lecture attracted academics, researchers, and students eager to deepen their understanding of palm oil breeding. The interactive discussion session was lively, with many participants asking about the practical application of Prof. Kukuh’s research in Indonesia’s palm oil agriculture to enhance competitiveness in international markets.

The event concluded with the presentation of a plaque by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Biology at UGM, as a token of appreciation to Prof. Kukuh for sharing his expertise. It is hoped that this event will enrich participants’ knowledge and inspire further collaboration to advance the palm oil sector in Indonesia.

Bioconnect BEM Biology UGM X Red Ant Tour HMPS Biology UIN Malang

Student Activities Friday, 6 September 2024

On Saturday, August 31, 2024, Bioconnect BEM Biology UGM X Red Ant Tour HMPS Biology UIN Malang successfully held at the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology UGM with the theme “Expanding Relationships to Create Innovation in Organizations. The event attended by 59 members of BEM Biology UGM and 53 members of HMPS Biology UIN Malang.

Bioconnect BEM Biology UGM is a program organized by the Department of Public Relations and Networks, aimed at strengthening relationships and sharing knowledge with various organizations, both within and outside the Faculty of Biology UGM. This event served as a platform for both organizations to understand each other’s structures and work programs, evaluate performance, and foster camaraderie.

The event opened with speeches from Zulfa Mubarokatul Faiqoh, Chair of the Red Ant Tour HMPS Biology UIN Malang, and Rofina Rima Permatasari, Chair of Bioconnect BEM Biology UGM. Next were speeches from Muhammad Nurul Fathoni Adha, Chair of BEM Biology UGM, and Sherly Nafisa, Chair of HMPS Biology UIN Malang.

Following the opening session, a 90-minute Focus Group Discussion (FGD) was held, where participants exchanged ideas and experiences based on their respective organizational roles. The event continued with an ice-breaking session, tree planting at the UGM Biology Forest and an exchange of souvenirs between the two organizations. The event concluded with documentation.

The event ran smoothly without any obstacles, thanks to the hard work and collaboration of the organizing committees from both parties, ensuring the success of this collaborative event.

The General Herping: Herpetofauna Sampling Activity at UGM by the Herpetology Study Group (KSH)

Student Activities Monday, 2 September 2024

On Saturday, August 24, 2024, the Herpetology Study Group (Kelompok Studi Herpetologi, KSH) from the Faculty of Biology at UGM held a General Herping activity, an open herpetofauna sampling event for UGM Biology students at Wisdom Park UGM, as part of the welcoming process for prospective new members of KSH. The event was attended by 24 members of KSH and 13 participants from the faculty of Biology. Before starting the Herping activity, a specimen maintenance task was carried out, which involved cleaning the cages and basking the herpetofauna owned by KSH.

The Herping activity began at 6:50 PM until 8:00 PM. Participants walked from the Faculty of Biology to Wisdom Park. Upon arrival, the participants were divided into groups to determine their sampling routes and given a brief explanation. The herpetofauna sampling was conducted using the Visual Encounter Survey (VES) method. Afterward, a joint identification session was held at the Faculty of Biology.

Various species of herpetofauna were found, including reptiles such as Ahaetulla sp., Bronchocela jubata, Gekko gecko, and Hemidactylus frenatus, as well as amphibians like Duttaphrynus melanostictus and Fejervarya limnocharis. The event concluded with a group photo session and the herpetofauna release back into their natural habitats.
This Herping activity aimed to provide participants an insight into herpetofauna sampling methods in the wild and identification.

The Entomology Study Group Holds Exploration and Entotalk 2024

Student Activities Monday, 2 September 2024

On Saturday, August 24, 2024, the Entomology Study Group (Kelompok Studi Entomologi, KSE) from the Faculty of Biology at UGM held Exploration (Eksber) and Entotalk. These activities aimed to enhance KSE members’ knowledge of insects, both theoretically and practically.
Exploration is an insect sampling activity carried out by active KSE members. This year, the event occurred at Mina Sejati Fish Pond in Sleman, Yogyakarta. The participants were enthusiastic, working across three sampling areas: the citrus orchard, the cornfield, and the fish pond. The collected insects were then preserved through a mounting process by each group. The event concluded with presentations of the sampling and mounting results by the groups.

In the afternoon, the event continued with Entotalk, led by Rahma Amalia and Inaya Dwiandra from KSE’s 25th batch. Themed “Dragonfly Diversity: Exploring the Structure and Function of Dragonflies in Ecosystems,” the session featured speaker Puji Lestari, S.Pd. She presented material on dragonflies, one of the Odonata Order widely found in Indonesia, highlighting their vital role in ecosystems, followed by an interactive Q&A session. The event concluded with a certificate awarded to the speaker and a group photo, marking the end of the Joint Exploration and Entotalk activities.