SDG 15 : Advance Life On Land

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Collaborative Research Across Campuses, Two UGM Biology Students Win Gold in Bioinformatics and Synthetic Biology Competition

Achivements Friday, 6 December 2024

In the 2024 Bioinformatics and Synthetic Biology (BIOS) competition organized by Synbio.id from August to December 2024, UGM Biology students once again achieved remarkable success, securing a gold medal and the position of Undergraduate Runner-Up. The two students, Muhammad Ode Rahmadhani (Class of 2021) and Renada Oktavia (Class of 2021), were part of Team Can-Con, which collaborated with students from various universities: Rafly Mochamad Rivaldo from the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran; Tristan Kenneth Yudhistira from the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya; Zaki Sidqi Aaliyya from the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Jenderal Soedirman; and Yonathan Henry Christianto, Bryan Wu, and Ruby Belinda Gunadi from the Faculty of Computer Science, Universitas Bina Nusantara. The team, led by Muhammad Ode Rahmadhani and guided by Prof. Dr. Yekti Asih Purwestri, M.Si., explored the compound phloroglucinol’s anticancer potential against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) using an in-silico metabolomics approach.

This research addressed the pressing need to discover new anticancer compounds due to the increasing prevalence of multidrug resistance and the significant side effects associated with current cancer therapies. Notably, the potential of phloroglucinol as an anticancer agent against NSCLC remains unexplored. The study aimed to unravel the pharmacological network and interactions between phloroglucinol and proteins associated with NSCLC progression. This focus is crucial as NSCLC remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in Indonesia.

The research, conducted throughout the competition, lasted from August to late November 2024. On December 1, 2024, during Synbiotechfest 2024, which also served as the Awarding Ceremony, Team Can-Con was announced as the gold medal winner and Undergraduate Runner-Up.

This outstanding achievement was made possible through the multidisciplinary collaboration of researchers from diverse academic backgrounds, which united diverse perspectives and approaches to develop a comprehensive study.

Author: M. Ode Rahmadhani

Lecturer of the Faculty of Biology, UGM Becomes One of the Speakers in the Pra-clinical Training: From Basic to Advanced – Preclinical Animal Models for Human Disease Workshop

News Release Tuesday, 3 December 2024

On November 26, 2024, Dr. Ardaning Nuriliani, S.Si., M.Kes., a lecturer at the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) had the opportunity to become one of the speakers in the training entitled From Basic to Advanced: Preclinical Animal Models for Human Disease organized by the Integrated Research and Testing Laboratory, UGM. The event, which was held hybrid, was attended by 8 offline participants and 12 online participants from various institutions such as from Surabaya, Riau, Purwokerto, and Yogyakarta. In this training, Dr. Ardaning provided one of the materials from the entire series of training, about Laboratory Animals (Rodents: Rats and Mice): Handling, Housing, Treatment. Dr. Ardaning explained in detail about the correct and proper ways to handle, care for, and treat laboratory animals, especially rats and mice, in order to meet ethical standards and ensure valid and reliable research results. This is very important to ensure animal welfare and the credibility of the data produced in the research.

The training aims to provide insight and practical skills regarding the use of pra-clinical animal models in human disease research, as well as an in-depth understanding of the welfare of the animals used. Therefore, in this training, participants in addition to receiving various materials related to the ethics of using laboratory animals; handling-housing-treatment of animal models; and animal models of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, lung cancer, and hypertension, they also have the opportunity to practice directly related to the materials provided. With this training, it is hoped that the lecturers, researchers, and laboratory technicians involved can apply new knowledge and skills in their research so as to support SDGs programs no. 3 (healthy and prosperous life) and 4 (quality education). This activity is also an important step in improving the quality of animal-based research in Indonesia, as well as encouraging the development of more effective pra-clinical models to study human diseases.

Green Edge Lubricants Wins First Place at Greenovation 2024: Pioneering Eco-Friendly Lubricants for the Metal Industry

Achivements Monday, 2 December 2024

Banjarmasin, November 27, 2024 – The Green Edge Lubricants team claimed first place in the Call for Business Idea category at the Greenovation 2024 organized by Bank Indonesia of South Kalimantan. The event drew over 400 participants, including innovative startups, industry experts, and academics. Green Edge Lubricants captured the judges’ attention with their groundbreaking eco-friendly lubricant derived from palm oil, outshining intense competition.

The team comprised Soen Eliora Valerie Natania (Biology), Dania Husna Huwaida (Chemical Engineering), and Khabib Abdul Aziz (Chemical Engineering). Soen Eliora focused on the product’s sustainability, emphasizing environmental compatibility, biodegradability of raw materials, and potential impacts on wastewater. Dania Husna Huwaida led the lubricant formulation, optimizing material composition for optimum performance. Meanwhile, Khabib Abdul Aziz designed an efficient production system, tailoring industrial-scale processes to ensure the product’s readiness for real-world implementation.

This innovative lubricant is tailored for cold rolling steel and metal stamping processes, which traditionally rely on expensive and environmentally harmful mineral oil-based lubricants. By incorporating biodegradable materials like oleic acid and synthetic esters, the lubricant reduces water consumption during cleaning processes by over 50%. Additionally, it offers superior lubricity, extending the tool’s lifespan while minimizing the environmental impact of wastewater.

“Biology is often perceived as unrelated to the industrial sector, but we aim to demonstrate its pivotal role in sustainability. My responsibility was to ensure that this product is not only efficient but also environmentally friendly, aligning with circular economy principles,” explained Soen Eliora.

Dania Husna Huwaida added, “Creating this lubricant faces unique challenges. It needed to meet high-performance standards while remaining cost-effective and easy to manufacture. Palm oil is the ideal raw material to achieve these goals.”

“Our focus was to design an adaptive, efficient production system to ensure the product’s readiness for industrial-scale application, meeting the demands of Indonesia’s market,” said Khabib Abdul Aziz.

The Greenovation 2024 participants have to present their innovative ideas and defend their concepts before a panel of industry experts, academics, and Bank Indonesia representatives. Teams were required to demonstrate both the economic and environmental impact of their products, tackling detailed technical questions.

“Every team presented great ideas, making the competition extremely fierce. We worked hard to highlight the technical strengths and sustainability of our innovation,” said Khabib.
With this victory, Green Edge Lubricants opens the door to further product development and potential collaborations with industry partners. Their lubricant is expected to drive a significant impact on Indonesia’s metal industry while contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.

The Greenovation 2024 competition underscored the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration in developing impactful solutions. Green Edge Lubricants has proven that sustainability is not just a necessity but also an opportunity to build a more efficient, environmentally friendly future for industry.

Author: Soen Eliora Valerie Natania

UGM’s Mine-Eye Gama Team Wins Second Place at Astranauts 2024 with Mining Monitoring Technology Innovation

Achivements Monday, 2 December 2024

Yogyakarta, November 29, 2024 – The Mine-Eye Gama team from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) secured second place in the Business Challenge Track of the Astranauts 2024 competition, organized by PT ASTRA DIGITAL on June 7, 2024. Competing against over 2,400 registered teams, Mine-Eye Gama stood out as one of the top seven finalists thanks to their innovative UAV drone and 3D LiDAR-based technology designed for real-time mining monitoring efficiency.

The team comprised Daniel Imanuel Manafe, Himawan Wicaksono, Stephanus Kevin Andika Rata (Instrumentation and Control Engineering Technology, 2022), Menliman Joyfal Gulo (Cartography and Remote Sensing, 2022), Sabila Hestuning (Management, 2023), and Soen Eliora Valerie Natania (Biology, 2023). Guided by mentor Jans Hendry, S.T., M.Eng., the team leveraged their multidisciplinary expertise to develop a comprehensive solution. Their system, built on a private broadband network, optimizes geospatial data acquisition in dynamic mining environments.

A Solution to Mining Monitoring Challenges
Representing the team, Daniel Imanuel Manafe explained that rapidly changing mining topographies often pose significant challenges to maintaining safety standards and productivity. “Traditional methods like terrestrial surveys are precise but inefficient for highly dynamic areas. Our system leverages UAV drones and 3D LiDAR to overcome these limitations,” he stated.
The technology enables real-time data acquisition using a private broadband-based control and transmission system. The vast data collected is processed and delivered to a specially designed Ground Control Station. This solution significantly reduces data collection and analysis time, providing operational advantages for the mining industry.

Collaboration and Valuable Experiences
For team member Eliora, a Biology student, participating in the competition was challenging and enlightening. “This competition was an invaluable experience. I hope more students expand beyond their comfort zones and expertise. That’s where the greatest opportunities can emerge,” she shared.

In addition to winning second place, the Mine-Eye Gama team gained access to numerous opportunities, including mentorship from industry experts, collaboration prospects with the Astra Group, and the chance to present their ideas to venture capitalists. Furthermore, the team will join the Astra Innovation Lab, a continuation program to develop innovative ideas and solutions in collaboration with top industry professionals.

“This competition has been a significant milestone for our team. We hope this innovation will make a tangible impact in the mining industry, particularly in enhancing efficiency and safety,” Daniel concluded.

Author: Soen Eliora Valerie Natania

Training on Health Beverage Production from Garden and Community Service Activity Evaluation in Mrican, Caturtunggal Village, Depok, Sleman

Community Service Tuesday, 26 November 2024

On Saturday, October 26, 2024, a community service activity titled “Training on Health Beverage Production from Garden and Community Service Evaluation” was held at the Mrican Village Meeting Hall. The event was attended by members of the Srikandi Women Farmers Group, led by Mrs. Nur Handayani. The training and educational sessions were delivered by Dr. Dra. Rr. Upiek Ngesti W.A., DAP&E, M.Biomed., accompanied by Prof. Dr. Niken Satuti Nur Handayani, M.Sc., and Nur Indah Septriani, M.Sc., Ph.D.

During the training, participants produced a health beverage based on “herbal plant concoctions with medicinal benefits,” branded as “TomSel”, an abbreviation of “tombo kesel” (Javanese for “cure for exhaustion”). The product will be showcased at the upcoming Research Day event hosted by the Faculty of Biology, UGM. Alongside the preparation of the health beverage, the session also covered techniques for creating attractive and sustainable packaging, as well as strategies for effective marketing.

The activity included a feedback session where community members, represented by Srikandi group members, shared their impressions with the Desa Mitra (Partner Village) service team as part of the evaluation. The event concluded with a visit to the demonstration garden.

This initiative exemplifies the Faculty of Biology UGM’s commitment to implementing and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly: (SDG 3) Good Health and Well-Being, (SDG 8) Decent Work and Economic Growth, (SDG 11) Sustainable Cities and Communities, (SDG 12) Responsible Consumption and Production, (SDG 15) Life on Land, and (SDG 17) Partnerships for the Goals.

Through sustainable collaboration with Srikandi Women Farmers Group, the Faculty of Biology aims to foster healthy and prosperous living. The Desa Mitra team’s dedication and teamwork ensured the event’s vibrancy and success.

Partnering with Srikandi for a healthier life,
A prosperous dream free of strife.
The Desa Mitra team, committed and strong,
Making this event lively all along.

Sustainable greetings from the Faculty of Biology!

Tissue Culture Competency Test: Contribution of the Faculty of Biology to Improve Skills of Modern Agricultur

News Release Friday, 22 November 2024

Yogyakarta, 21 November 2024 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada successfully held the Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme Competency Test, located in the Upper Conference Room and Biotechnology Laboratory, Faculty of Biology UGM. This activity followed the implementation of Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme Training last Monday (18/11) and Tuesday (19/11), which was managed by the Biotechnology Competency Test Center (TUK) of the Faculty of Biology UGM.

A total of 18 participants were registered for the Competency Test. Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, Chief Executive of TUK, said in his speech that the participants came from various backgrounds, students, lecturers and researchers including from the Indonesian Education University (UPI), Gadjah Mada University (UGM), Riau University (UnRi), Medan State University, PPKS Bogor Unit, and PUIPT Microalgae Biorefinery UGM.

Chairman of LSP Agriculture, Drs. Surini Santoso, M.Si., was also present at the opening of the Level II Network Culture Competency Test Thursday (22/11). He expressed his appreciation for holding the Competency Test which was facilitated by TUK Biotechnology UGM. He added that this competency test can not only be used to support Main Performance Indicators (IKU) for lecturers or student competencies, but also to support university accreditation.

Dr. Slamet Widiyanto, M.Sc. as Deputy Dean for Finance, Assets and Human Resources, Faculty of Biology UGM, was present to open the Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme Competency Test. Representing the Dean and other leaders, he expressed his support for the continuation of the Biotechnology Competency Test at the Faculty of Biology which is supported by the Agricultural Professional Certification Institute (LSP) under the National Professional Certification Agency (BNSP).

The Level II Network Culture Qualification Scheme Competency Test consists of three series of exams: written exams, practical exams and oral exams. The three exams are divided into two categories: regular and portfolio. The competency test is supported by assessors from LSP Agriculture, Woro Anondito S T., Ph.D. and Diah Purnamasari, S.TP.

The competency test closed with the announcement of the graduation of the 18 participants who took the competency test and were declared competent. Abdul Razaq Chasani as Chair of the TUK Faculty of Biology UGM expressed his appreciation as well as closing the implementation of the Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme Competency Test.

The implementation of this competency test is part of the UGM Faculty of Biology’s support for sustainable development goals (SDGs), especially in educational inclusiveness and contribution to ecosystem conservation. This competency test is expected to contribute to the competency of the participants and society in general.

Faculty of Biology Successfully Held Level II Tissue Culture Training

News Release Wednesday, 20 November 2024

Yogyakarta, 18 and 19 November 2024 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada successfully held Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme Training, located in the Upper Conference Room and Biotechnology Laboratory, Faculty of Biology UGM. This activity is part of a series of Competency Tests for the Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme which will be held on Thursday (21/11), which is managed by the Biotechnology Competency Test Center (TUK) of the Faculty of Biology UGM.

Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, Chief Executive of TUK, said in his speech that the activity was attended by 12 participants from student, lecturer and researcher backgrounds including from the Indonesian Education University (UPI), Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Universitas Riau (UnRi), State University Medan, PPKS Bogor Unit, and PUIPT Microalgae Biorefinery UGM.

Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., attended and opened the Level II Tissue Culture Qualification Scheme Training, Monday (19/11). He expressed his support for the continuation of the Biotechnology Competency Test at the Faculty of Biology which is supported by the Agricultural Professional Certification Institute (LSP) under the National Professional Certification Agency (BNSP). The presence of the Dean of the Faculty of Biology was accompanied by Dr. Slamet Widiyanto, M.Sc. as Vice Dean for Finance, Assets and Human Resources Affairs, and Abdul Razaq Chasani, Ph.D. as Head of TUK Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, UGM.

The first day of training was filled with lectures and discussions with Prof. Dr. Endang Semiarti, M.S., M.Sc. entitled “Introduction and Basics of Tissue Culture Techniques”, and Aries Bagus Sasongko entitled “Competencies in Tissue Culture Techniques”.

The second day was a practical agenda held at the Biotechnology Laboratory and Karanggayam Research Station, Faculty of Biology UGM. The practicum consists of preparing mother plants and explants, introducing the tools used, medium, and basic techniques used in tissue culture, as well as practicum at the research station.

This training is part of the UGM Faculty of Biology’s commitment for sustainable development goals (SDGs), especially in educational inclusiveness and contribution to ecosystem conservation. It is hoped that this training will provide insight, especially to the participants, and society in general.

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

Tak Berkategori Monday, 18 November 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

Session 1

Moderator: Siti Nurleily Marliana, Ph.D.

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

Session 2

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

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

Session 3

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

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

Session 4

Moderator: Dr. Rury Eprilurahman, M.Sc.

Dwinda Mariska Putri, S.Si., M.Sc. (National Research and Innovation Agency) – Vertical Distribution of Zooplankton in Lake Laut Tawar
Heni Wahyu Sartika, S.Si., M.Sc. (UGM) – Belik River as a Flowing Water Management Model During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Maria Eva Kristiyani, S.Si., M.Sc. (De Britto College High School) – Coastal Waters for Aquaculture
Carolina A. Inlandia, S.Si., M.Sc. (Environmental Consultant) – Water Pollution Potential and Management of Tambakboyo Reservoir, Sleman

To conclude the event, Prof. Suwarno generously distributed 70 copies of his book, “Kantong Terakhir Anak Adalah Amanah Tuhan” to participants.

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

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

Faculty of Biology UGM Research Day 2024 Attracts Over 300 Visitors On the Second Day

News Release Friday, 15 November 2024

Yogyakarta, November 14, 2024 – The second day of the Faculty of Biology UGM Research Day 2024 achieved remarkable success, drawing more than 300 visitors. The Biology Exhibition, a key highlight of this annual event, captivated attendees, including students, academics, and members of the public.

Held at Building B of the Faculty of Biology, the exhibition showcased innovations, research findings, and cutting-edge biological instruments. Spanning topics such as functional and developmental biology, environmental biology and biodiversity, and molecular biology and biotechnology, the event featured detailed presentations at each booth. Visitors had the unique opportunity to engage directly with experts, who provided in-depth explanations about advanced research instruments and methodologies.

In addition to the exhibition, the second day of Research Day included Mini Workshops hosted in collaboration with partners specializing in state-of-the-art research instruments. These sessions offered participants insights into the latest breakthroughs and technologies in biological research. The workshop allowed attendees to hands-on practice using advanced tools under the guidance of experienced instructors. Featured instruments included genetic analysis tools, advanced microscopy systems, and software for biological data analysis and statistical modeling. Participants, comprising students, young researchers, and biology practitioners, were able to explore these tools in depth, gaining valuable practical skills and understanding their applications in scientific research.

The workshops aimed to develop participants’ practical competencies in utilizing advanced technologies essential for biological research. Through hands-on activities, attendees not only learned the operational mechanisms of these tools but also explored effective ways to integrate them into their own research projects.

Beyond presenting research outcomes, Research Day serves as a platform to strengthen collaborations among academics, industry professionals, and the broader community. The Faculty of Biology at UGM aspires to make this event a cornerstone for advancing scientific knowledge and innovation in the biological sciences.
[Prepared by the Research Day Committee]

Faculty of Biology UGM Collaborates with Mount Merapi National Park Authority to Conduct Research on Lichen Diversity

News Release Thursday, 14 November 2024

Through the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) Research Grant, a team of students from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), is conducting research on lichen diversity within the Mount Merapi National Park (TNGM). The team comprises Ananda Briliana Romadhona, Christabel Reviana Septianingtyas, Intan Luthfianawati, Irfan Agus Nugroho, Irfan Ari Prasetyo, and Laila Nurul Ilma, under the guidance of Ludmilla Fitri Untari, S.Si., M.Si., and field supervisor Dr. Pairah, S.Si., M.Si. The research project is titled “Diversity of Lichen Flora in the Musuk-Cepogo Resort Area of Mount Merapi National Park.”

Lichens are symbiotic organisms resulting from mutualism between fungi and algae. They play a role in biogeochemical cycles and hold significant potential for bioprospecting applications. Despite their ecological and biotechnological importance, lichen research remains scarce in Indonesia, including within the Mount Merapi National Park, which likely harbors high lichen biodiversity.

The study, conducted between August and November 2024, focused on three specific sites within the Musuk-Cepogo Resort Management Area (RPTN) of Mount Merapi National Park: Gunung Bibi Forest Block, Gobumi, and Sudimoro. Specimen identification was carried out in the Plant Systematics Laboratory of the Faculty of Biology, UGM, using morphological, anatomical, and secondary metabolite tests, including spot tests.
The research identified 65 lichen species across 26 genera from the three study sites, indicating a relatively high diversity in the area. These findings contribute to the understanding of Indonesia’s floral biodiversity and underline the ecological significance of lichens in tropical forest ecosystems.

This study aims to enhance knowledge of Indonesia’s flora and provide a valuable contribution to society. The expected outcome from this research is a Monograph of Lichen Flora in Mount Merapi National Park, which will serve as a resource for conservation efforts and further scientific inquiry.

(Written by: Ananda Briliana Romadhona, Irfan Agus Nugroho, Laila Nurul Ilma)

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