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SDG 3 : Establish Good Health and Well-Being

Graduation Ceremony for Undergraduate Students, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada – Period IV, Academic Year 2024/2025

News Release Thursday, 28 August 2025

The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, once again held the graduation ceremony for undergraduate students of Period IV, Academic Year 2024/2025. The event took place on Wednesday, 27 August 2025, at the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology UGM. A total of 147 graduates were officially conferred the degree of Sarjana Sains (S.Si.) or Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.). This solemn yet festive occasion was made possible through the collaboration of the entire academic community of the Faculty of Biology UGM, supported by 33 student organizers from the Biology Student Executive Board (BEM Biologi UGM), who ensured the smooth running of the ceremony.


From noon, the campus atmosphere was filled with excitement and joy as graduates and their families gathered to witness one of the most memorable moments of their academic journey. The ceremony began promptly at 13:00 WIB with an opening by the Master of Ceremony, followed by the entrance of graduates and faculty leaders into the auditorium. The event continued with the singing of the Indonesian national anthem Indonesia Raya, the Hymne Gadjah Mada, and the Mars Biologi, led by Biotimbre.

The agenda proceeded with the graduation report delivered by Sukirno, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., Head of the Undergraduate Program. In his report, he stated that 147 graduates had successfully completed their studies at the Faculty of Biology UGM. This was followed by the announcement of the graduation list of all 147 graduates, which was met with enthusiastic applause from families and invited guests.

The ceremony then continued with a speech by the representative of the graduates, Vincencio Valdy Putra Sasangka, S.Si., who also achieved the highest GPA of 3.99. In his address, he expressed gratitude and appreciation for the support of his family, lecturers, and the entire academic community throughout his studies. This was followed by a speech from the representative of parents, delivered by Mr. Tresnawan Budi Sasangka, S.E., father of Vincencio Valdy Putra Sasangka. He expressed gratitude for the guidance given by the Faculty of Biology UGM and extended prayers and best wishes for the graduates as they begin a new chapter of life with courage, sincerity, and a spirit of contribution to society.

Another significant moment was the pinning of the KABIOGAMA pin by Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., Vice Dean for Research and Alumni Affairs, to a representative of the graduates. This symbolic act marked the official induction of the graduates into Keluarga Alumni Biologi Gadjah Mada (KABIOGAMA), the alumni network that actively contributes both academically and socially. The event continued with a speech by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., who expressed appreciation for the students’ dedication and encouraged the graduates to uphold the good name of the Faculty of Biology UGM wherever they may contribute.

As a token of appreciation, the graduates presented the faculty with mementos consisting of one unit of air cooler and five folding laptop tables. The ceremony continued with a joint prayer for the graduates’ success in their new journey. The event was officially closed by Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Biology, followed by a joyful photo session with graduates, faculty leaders, and lecturers.

The celebration reached its peak with a graduation parade led by Double Helix. Cheers from families, friends, and peers accompanied the graduates as they exited the auditorium, symbolizing the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. The Period IV graduation ceremony was not only a celebration of academic achievement but also a starting point for graduates to dedicate themselves to society, the nation, and the world. The Faculty of Biology UGM hopes that its graduates will carry forward their knowledge, experiences, and spirit of togetherness to bring about positive change across various fields of life. [Writer: Aulia Annisa Azzahra]

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

CooperationNews Release Wednesday, 27 August 2025

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


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

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

Pathogen Molecular Biology

Malaria and Vector Resistance

Pathobiology of Emerging and Vector-borne Diseases

Human Genetic Diversity and Diseases

Structural Biology and Cell Signaling

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

UGM Biology Graduate Student Explores Forensic Science at the Police Forensic Laboratory Center in West Java

News Release Monday, 25 August 2025

Rindu Aurantika, a Master’s student from the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), took part in an internship at the Forensic Chemistry and Biology Division, specifically in the Biology-Serology Subdivision, at the Police Criminal Investigation Agency’s Forensic Laboratory Center (Puslabfor Bareskrim Polri) in Sentul, West Java. The internship ran from July 1st to 31st, 2025, under the academic supervision of Prof. Dr. Niken Satuti Nur Handayani, M.Sc., and field supervision by Riski Suranto, S.Si. This internship program was not only joined by UGM students but also involved participants from Universitas Negeri Jakarta (UNJ), Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP), and Universitas Brawijaya (UB).


Over five weeks, the internship was designed in stages to help students understand the full forensic examination process, from the beginning to the end of the program. In the first week, students were introduced to the organizational structure of Puslabfor, the role of the Biology-Serology Subdivision, and administrative tasks like archiving forensic reports from police departments across Indonesia. This initial stage showed that archiving is not just paperwork—it plays a critical role in legal processes.

In the second week, students got to know the various labs within the Biology-Serology Subdivision, including the serology lab, human DNA lab, non-human DNA lab, and microbiology lab. In the third week, students participated in examining biological evidence such as bloodstains, semen, hair, and body tissue. They also worked with other items often found at crime scenes, like clothing, tissues, drink bottles, cigarette butts, and more. During the fourth week, the focus shifted to more complex samples like bones and nails. Students also conducted genetic analysis using a Genetic Analyzer based on capillary electrophoresis technology. In the fifth week of the program, students repeated DNA extraction procedures and learned how to input DNA data into the detainee database system. The program ended with the preparation of a final report summarizing everything they had learned during the month-long internship.

This experience was a valuable opportunity for Rindu’s academic journey. “Internship at Puslabfor allowed me to see how biological science is applied in real-world of forensics. Each step, from serology testing to DNA interpretation, requires a high level of accuracy because the results directly impact criminal investigations,” she shared. Beyond improving her technical skills in forensic biology, the internship also helped strengthen her discipline and sense of responsibility. It is hoped that programs like this will support the growth of forensic science in Indonesia, through better education and research opportunities. [Author: Rindu Aurantika]

Guest Lecture Highlights Cutting-Edge Zebrafish Research in Heart Development

News Release Friday, 15 August 2025

The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, had the honor of hosting Dr. Cecilia Winata, Head of the Zebrafish Developmental Genomics Laboratory at the International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Warsaw, for a guest lecture titled “Understanding the Heart Using Zebrafish as a Model Organism.” Held on Thursday, August 14, 2025, the event brought together faculty members, researchers, and students to gain insights into the genomic and molecular underpinnings of heart development.


Dr. Winata emphasized the critical importance of understanding heart development, especially in relation to congenital heart disease—one of the most common types of birth defects. Using zebrafish as her model organism, she showcased how this tiny aquatic vertebrate has become a powerful tool in cardiac research. Notably, zebrafish share a comparable heart rate with humans, making them a relevant system for exploring cardiovascular biology.

During the lecture, Dr. Winata shared key findings from her lab:

  • The dynamics of the cardiomyocyte transcriptome and chromatin landscape: Her team mapped out the changing gene expression patterns and chromatin architecture throughout heart development, revealing the timing and regulation of key developmental processes.
  • Insights into the pacemaker system: By profiling the transcriptome of the sinoatrial ring—the zebrafish heart’s natural pacemaker—Dr. Winata uncovered both conserved and novel genetic programs, highlighting parallels with human heart rhythm regulation.
  • Molecular blueprint of the secondary pacemaker: Genomic and physiological analyses of the atrioventricular canal exposed the genetic framework that defines this lesser-known pacemaker region, providing new understanding of how rhythmic contractions are coordinated.
  • The role of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs): Dr. Winata underscored the importance of SNPs in shaping individual susceptibility to congenital heart defects and arrhythmias, underlining the potential of personalized medicine.

The lecture concluded with an open invitation from Dr. Winata to collaborate. She expressed keen interest in working with researchers and students from the Faculty of Biology and welcomed those interested in joining her lab in Warsaw to explore zebrafish-based research further.

This event not only deepened understanding of heart development but also laid the groundwork for international research collaboration, reinforcing the Faculty’s commitment to advancing biomedical science through global partnerships.

Faculty of Biology UGM, Leipzig University, and Badr University Host International Summer Course on One Health

News ReleaseStudent Activities Thursday, 14 August 2025

Leipzig, 10–22 August 2025 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), together with Leipzig University, Germany, and Badr University, Egypt, organized the International Summer Course Program on One Health, bringing together students and lecturers from multiple countries. This program is a collaboration between UGM’s Faculty of Biology, the Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health at Leipzig University, and Badr University.
The two-week program was attended by 10 undergraduate students from both the International Undergraduate Program (IUP) and Regular Program of the Faculty of Biology UGM, along with 22 students from Badr University and Leipzig University, as well as academic teams from all three institutions. Dr.rer.nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, M.Biotech., also accompanied UGM students throughout the course activities.

 

During the barbecue session, the Dean of the Faculty of Biology UGM, Prof. Dr. Budi Setiadi Daryono, and the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, joined the event alongside Prof. Adel from Badr University, Dr. Ahmed Abd El Wahed, and Prof. Uwe Truyen from the Institute of Animal Hygiene and Veterinary Public Health at Leipzig University.

 

The International Summer Course on One Health aims to enhance interdisciplinary understanding of the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, while fostering collaborative research and global knowledge exchange. The program supports the achievement of SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

From Zimbabwe to Yogyakarta: Ruru’s First Steps Toward a Master’s Degree in Biology at UGM

News Release Thursday, 14 August 2025

When Ruvarashe Rambwawasvika—known to friends as “Ruru”—arrived in Yogyakarta at the end of October last year, she carried with her not only a suitcase but also a wealth of experience and a clear vision for the future. The 26-year-old master’s student from Zimbabwe is now charting her academic path at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), supported by the prestigious Kemitraan Negara Berkembang (KNB) scholarship.

A Strong Scientific Foundation

Ruru earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Zimbabwe, later serving as a Biosafety Officer at the National Biotechnology Authority of Zimbabwe for nearly two years. This role deepened her commitment to safeguarding public health and reinforced her desire to specialize further.
The KNB scholarship offered her both tuition and living support, along with a mandatory period of Indonesian language and cultural immersion. Before beginning her master’s program, she participated in orientation sessions organized by the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, which paired her with Indonesian speakers to help navigate daily life—from shopping to understanding everyday terms.

Choosing UGM

Ruru’s decision to study at UGM was shaped by both research and recommendation. “I considered other Indonesian universities through friends and social media,” she recalls, “but UGM’s strong biology department stood out.” Encouragement from peers about Indonesia’s peaceful atmosphere and supportive academic environment helped seal her decision.

Adapting to a New Environment

Moving from a country with four distinct seasons to Indonesia’s warm, tropical climate required some adjustment, but Ruru has embraced the change. She praises the kindness of the local community and the willingness of people to help.
Language posed its own challenges—lectures are largely in Bahasa Indonesia—but her professors have been flexible, allowing her to complete assignments and exams in English. The gradual pace of language instruction has also eased the transition.

Daily Life and Culinary Discoveries

Food has been both a comfort and an adventure. Back home, maize-based fufu (sadza) is a staple, and while sourcing white maize in Yogyakarta is expensive and infrequent, she occasionally receives supplies through contacts in Malang. She enjoys cooking with her Malawian roommate but also appreciates campus lunches and Indonesian dishes like nasi goreng. While the sweeter flavor profile was unfamiliar at first, she has grown fond of it over time.

Passion for Parasitology

Ruru’s academic interests lie in parasitology with a biomedical focus. Her undergraduate research examined the prevalence of Babesia canis and Ehrlichia canis, two canine blood parasites. She has observed that, compared to the focus on viruses, bacteria, and fungi, parasitology—especially related to blood and waterborne parasites—remains underexplored.
Over the next two years, she aims to sharpen her skills in biochemistry and molecular laboratory methods, using Indonesia’s biodiversity as a comparative research context with Zimbabwe. She appreciates UGM’s access to parasitology experts, sequencing facilities, and visiting professors from countries like Japan, China, or European countries, which could open pathways for her eventual PhD.

Wellbeing and Community

Like many international students, Ruru faced moments of homesickness, but strong community support and a steady daily routine helped her settle in. Her best memories so far are of inclusivity and the consistent support she has received from both peers and faculty.

Looking Ahead

After completing her master’s degree, Ruru plans to return to Zimbabwe to work as a researcher and lecturer—ideally at her alma mater. She hopes to contribute to her department’s growth, advance environmental management practices, and collaborate with organizations like the Environmental Management Agency of Zimbabwe.
Her journey is a testament to the power of academic exchange, cultural adaptability, and a clear sense of purpose. As she navigates the laboratories and lecture halls of UGM, Ruru is not only building her own future but also paving the way for stronger scientific collaboration between Zimbabwe and Indonesia.>

Faculty of Biology UGM Holds Javanese Classical Dance Workshop to Inspire Work-Life Balance and Preserve Indonesian Culture

News Release Wednesday, 13 August 2025

Yogyakarta, August 12, 2025 – As part of the Lustrum XIV series, the Faculty of Biology at Gadjah Mada University (UGM) successfully held a meaningful “Javanese Classical Dance Workshop of the Jogja Style” on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, starting at 08:00 AM WIB. This event is a testament to the faculty’s commitment to maintaining the life balance of its academic community amidst busy research and academic activities.


The workshop, themed “Wiraga, Wirama, Wirasa” (Body, Rhythm, Feeling), aimed to provide a space for the entire Faculty of Biology family—from lecturers, educational staff, and students (undergraduate and postgraduate) to alumni—to unwind and balance their academic and non-academic lives. The activity was open to all, including those with no prior traditional dance experience.

Javanese classical dance, particularly Yogyakarta style, not only teaches beautiful movements but also contains a deep philosophy that benefits its dancers. This dance practice trains calmness, patience, and discipline. Participants are invited to internalize noble values such as sawiji (full concentration), greget (enthusiasm), sengguh (self-confidence without arrogance), and ora mingkuh (not easily giving up). Physically, dancing is also proven to be effective in improving balance, body strength, and health.

The workshop was led by professional dancer and trainer, Mas Tunggul Pujangkoro. With a patient and friendly approach, he successfully created a pleasant learning atmosphere and sparked high enthusiasm among the participants. This moment of togetherness was also strengthened by the faculty’s commitment to environmental issues, where participants were encouraged to bring their own water bottles as a tangible step to reduce plastic waste.

This activity is in line with UGM’s commitment to supporting the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Specifically, this dance workshop contributes to achieving SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being by providing a platform for mental and physical health. Additionally, the activity strengthens SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by uniting various elements of the academic community in a positive and collaborative activity.

Through this event, the Faculty of Biology at UGM not only demonstrates its role as a center of academic excellence but also as a community that cares for the well-being of its members and the preservation of cultural heritage. It is hoped that similar activities can continue to be held to strengthen relationships and improve the quality of life for the entire UGM Faculty of Biology civitas.

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

News Release Thursday, 31 July 2025

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Faculty of Biology UGM Strengthens International Partnership with Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) through Dual Degree Program Initiative

CooperationNews Release Tuesday, 29 July 2025

Pagoh, Malaysia – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), conducted an official visit to Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) to discuss the implementation of a Dual Degree program at the undergraduate level (Bachelor of Science) between the Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology (FAST), UTHM and the Faculty of Biology UGM. The visit took place from July 24 to 28, 2025, at Pagoh Branch Campus, UTHM, Malaysia.


The UGM delegation was led by Prof. Dr. Bambang Retnoaji, S.Si., M.Sc., Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, and accompanied by two staff members from the Office of Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni (P2MKSA), Anysah Nur Fauziyah, S.Si., and Annisa Mawarni, S.Si.

An intensive three-day curriculum matching session was held from Thursday to Saturday, July 24–26, 2025. This process was crucial to ensure compatibility in course structures, credit loads, and learning outcomes, which are essential for the effective and equitable implementation of the dual degree program.

In addition to curriculum alignment, the discussions also involved drafting the content of the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA), which will serve as the legal foundation for the collaboration. Finalizing the MoA marks a strategic step toward establishing a strong administrative and operational framework for the dual degree program. With agreement reached on both the curriculum and the MoA content, both institutions are optimistic that the program can commence in the upcoming academic semester.

The visit concluded with an official meeting on Monday, July 28, 2025, between the UGM delegation and the leadership and academic staff of FAST-UTHM. The meeting was attended by: Assoc. Prof. Ts. ChM. Dr. Hatijah binti Basri, Dean of FAST, Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Muhammad Abdul Latiff bin Abu Bakar, Deputy Dean for Research, Development, and Publication, Dr. Aqilah Binti Awg Abdul Rahman, Head of Natural Resources Program, Dr. Arney Binti Sapaat, Head of SUNR Centre, Dr. Nur Hafizah Binti Malik, Head of BWD Program, Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Norazlin Binti Abdullah, Head of Department of Technology & Natural Resources, Ts. Dr. Siti Fatimah Binti Sabran, Ts. Gs. Dr. Kamarul Rahim Bin Kamarudin, Dr. Yap Jing Wei, Ts. Dr. Salasiah Binti Mohamad, Dr. Munira Binti Zainal Abidin, Assoc. Prof. ChM. Dr. Norhayati Binti Muhammad, Dr. Nor Atiqah Binti Norazlimi, Dr. Furzani Binti Pa’ee.

The Faculty of Biology UGM and FAST-UTHM have maintained a strong partnership since 2018, collaborating annually through various international activities such as student mobility programs, the International Conference on Biological Sciences (ICBS), the International Conference on Biodiversity (ICB), and the International Summer Course.

FAST-UTHM expressed strong enthusiasm for this collaboration, highlighting the shared academic vision and focus on life sciences as well as the mutual commitment to strengthening internationally recognized education.

Capacity Building Enhancement by BBSPJIKKP through Microbiological Testing Training on Water and Wastewater at the Microbiology Laboratory, Faculty of Biology UGM

News Release Wednesday, 23 July 2025

Yogyakarta, July 24, 2025 – The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), proudly hosted a training program entitled “Microbiological Testing of Water and Wastewater” held from July 21–24, 2025 at the Microbiology Laboratory, Faculty of Biology UGM. This activity was organized in collaboration with the Center for Standardization and Industrial Services of Leather, Rubber, and Plastics (BBSPJIKKP), Yogyakarta.


The training was attended by technical staff and laboratory analysts from BBSPJIKKP, aiming to enhance their capacity in microbiological testing for clean water and industrial wastewater in accordance with environmental quality and public health standards. The training materials covered sampling methods, culturing techniques of microbial indicators, coliform, such as Escherichia coli, and interpretation of results based on national and international regulations.

Dr.rer.nat. Abdul Rahman Siregar, S.Si., M.Biotech., as Head of Microbiology Laboratory, Faculty of Biology UGM, warmly welcomed this activity as part of the university’s commitment to academic contribution and community service in strengthening human resource capacity within the industrial sector. “We hope this training will have a real impact on improving water testing quality in Indonesia, and become the first step toward sustainable collaboration between academia and industry,” he stated.

This training also supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, through the strengthening of microbiological testing as part of environmental health surveillance; SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, by improving the quality of testing for both industrial and domestic wastewater; SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, through institutional collaboration to build capacity and share knowledge.

This initiative is a clear demonstration that synergy between higher education institutions and government agencies can drive innovation, quality improvement, and sustainability in environmental management in Indonesia.