Yogyakarta, September 12, 2024 – Calvin Muliawan, an IUP student from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), is proud to be announced as one of the selected delegates in the Young Explorer’s Program (YEP) organized by OceanX. This rare opportunity allows him to join the OceanXplorer ship during the journey from Bali to Bitung on August 5-9, 2024.

During the journey, Calvin will gain valuable experience in marine exploration by utilizing various facilities and cutting-edge technologies available on the OceanXplorer. This ship is equipped with advanced technology, including ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle), Submersible, eDNA (environmental DNA), and Multibeam Sonar for seabed mapping. This technology allows researchers to explore the depths of the ocean with high accuracy and study underwater life and ecosystem conditions in more depth.

Calvin’s participation in this program not only provides an opportunity to learn about various innovations in marine research but also broadens his insights and skills in the field of marine biology. This is a significant step in his academic journey and his contribution to the development of science and technology in Indonesia.

OceanX, as an organization committed to improving our understanding of the ocean through exploration and cutting-edge technology, welcomes Calvin with enthusiasm. This program aims to inspire the younger generation in the field of ocean exploration and facilitate the exchange of knowledge between scientists and students.

We congratulate Calvin Muliawan on his achievement and hope that this experience will have a positive impact on his academic career and his contribution to marine science in the future. [Aulia]

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.

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.

Cervical cancer ranked second most common cancer in Indonesia, with 36,633 reported cases in 2021, and the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Current cervical cancer treatment is chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery with side effects that can significantly reduce the patient’s quality of life. Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection, which produces E6 and E7 oncoproteins. These proteins interfere with programmed cell death (apoptosis), accelerate the cell cycle, and lead to cell immortality, resulting in cancer.

Combination Salacca zalacca (Gaertn.) Voss Seeds and Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. Peel Waste has shown potential as an alternative cervical cancer treatment. This discovery comes from research conducted by UGM students in the Student Creativity Program for Exact Science Research (PKM-RE). The team, consisting of Aditya Latiful Azis (Biology 2022), Asy Syifa Paras Ceria (Biology 2022), Shabrina Farras Tsany (Medicine 2021), Rahmalia Diani Saffana (Medicine 2021), and Faqih Fikri Nuryanto (Pharmacy 2023), under the supervision of Woro Anindito Sri Tunjung, M.Sc., Ph.D., has explored the potential of Salacca zalacca (Gaertn.) Voss Seeds and Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. Peel Waste as an alternative therapy for cervical cancer.

Salacca zalacca (Gaertn.) Voss Seeds contain potent antioxidants including polyphenols, alkaloids, and terpenoids, while Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. Peel Waste is rich in flavonoids and lycopene, which are cytotoxic to cancer cells. The herbal remedy derived from these two ingredients is predicted to have milder side effects.

“This research aims to utilize Indonesia’s natural resources for cervical cancer therapy. Salacca zalacca (Gaertn.) Voss Seeds and Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. peel wastes were selected due to their secondary metabolite content, which has potential anticancer properties. Additionally, the increasing production and consumption of Salacca zalacca (Gaertn.) Voss and Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. lead to organic waste issues. We hope this research offers an eco-friendly and milder side effect alternative treatment,” said Aditya, the team leader.

The research conducted for four months involved various tests, including phytochemical screening, in silico studies, anti-inflammatory activity tests, cytotoxicity and antiproliferative assays using the MTT method, inhibition of HeLa cell migration, and apoptosis tests.
The result showed the combination of Salacca zalacca (Gaertn.) Voss Seeds and Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. Peel Waste could inhibit inflammation, halt cancer cell migration, and trigger cell death (apoptosis).

The results of this study are expected to pave the way for cervical cancer therapy that harnesses Indonesia’s natural wealth and supports zero-waste initiatives. [Written by: Aditya Latiful Azis]

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.

On Saturday, August 31, 2024, the Parasitology Division of the Animal Systematics Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, UGM, held a training session titled “Morphometric-Geometry and Comparison Techniques.” The event took place in the Upper Conference Room of the Faculty of Biology UGM. The training was attended by 29 participants, including PhD and master’s students, as well as students from the Lecturer-Student Collaboration (KDM) and MBKM programs.

The main speaker was Mr. Sidiq Setyo Nugroho, S.Si., M.Sc., M.P.H., from the Biosystematics and Evolution Research Center, BRIN, and an alumnus of the Faculty of Biology, UGM. In her opening remarks, the Chair of the Organizing Committee, Dr. Dra. RR. Upiek Ngesti W. Astuti noted that the event aimed to equip students with additional skills for conducting in-depth research and supporting scientific publications.The event was inaugurated by the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni Affairs, Dr. Eko Agus Suyono, M.App.Sc., who emphasized the importance of lifelong learning and fostering collaborative networks among participants.

The training covered the theoretical and practical Morphometric-Geometry and Comparison Techniques including wing geometry, Landmark-based, Ooutline-based, semi landmark, and the advantages and limitations of these techniques. Participants were introduced to software tools such as tpsUtil, tpsDig2, and MorphoJ and engaged in hands-on practice, including wing preparation and photo digitization of mosquito wings from the genera Anopheles, Aedes, and Culex. This training supports the SDGs’ goals especially SDGs No.3 on good health and well-being, SDGs No.4 on quality education, and SDGs No.17 on partnership for the goals.

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.

On Friday, August 16, 2024, the BEM Biology Cabinet Padma Birawa organized the BEM Skill Sharing Moment (MOBIL) #1. The event took place at 4:00 PM in Room 1, Building B, Faculty of Biology, guided by Aditya Latiful Azis and Rima Arvisya Natania Putri. A total of 40 young BEM Biology staff members attended the event. The theme for MOBIL #1 was “Synergy in Action: Achieving More Together,” covering two main topics. The event began with a prayer and opening remarks from Field Coordinator, Achmad Nadhmi Arfa, followed by seminars.

The first seminar session featured speaker Lara Ayu Oktaviani, who presented on effective communication, time management, work professionalism, and conflict management. The session was engaging, incorporating Mentimeter to enhance participant involvement and employing the “written memory” technique to aid participants in concentrating on the material. The next session was led by Aghniya Faza Kencana and Firchamy Vuqi Aulia, who discussed the importance of SWOT analysis and its role in organizations.

The event concluded with the presentation of souvenirs to the speakers and a group photo session. It is hoped that this event could provide the young members of BEM Biology with new insights and skills.

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.

Wednesday, 28 August 2024 The Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, held a Graduation Ceremony for the Undergraduate Program 2023/2024 period IV at the Tropical Biology Auditorium, Faculty of Biology. This ceremony was attended by 146 graduates, a new record for the highest number of graduates in the history of the Faculty of Biology graduation ceremony. The ceremony was opened at 01.15 p.m. by the Dean of the Faculty of Biology Prof. Dr. Budi Setyadi Daryono, M.Agr.Sc. and continued singing Indonesia Raya, Hymne Gadjah Mada, and Mars Faculty of Biology.

Then, there is a report of graduates by the Head of Undergraduate Study Program by Mr. Sukirno, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D. In his report he said that there were 146 graduates in this period with the academic title Sarjana sains or Bachelor of Science with Honours. Then, the highest GPA was obtained by Nindi Putri Dwi Wardani, S.Si. with a value 3,94. The shortest length of study was obtained by Fadhillah Fikriyanti Putri, S.Si. with 3 years 4 months 5 days.

Next, there is a reading of the graduates graduation results. Furthermore, there was a speech by representatives of the graduates Nindi Putri Dwi Wardani, S.Si.. In her speech, she congratulated her fellow graduates and encouraged them not to be afraid to dream big. Following her speech, there was a speech from the parent representative, the father of the graduate Nindi Putri Dwi Wardani, S.Si.. He expressed his gratitude to the faculty members and the entire academic community for their support throughout the learning process.