Yogyakarta, October 27th 2025 – A spirit of collaboration and scientific optimism filled the auditorium of the Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) Graduate School on Saturday, October 25th 2025. Dozens of academics, researchers, and students from various regions gathered for a major event: the 11th National Biotechnology Seminar (SNB XI), held in conjunction with the 2nd Indonesian Metabolomics Symposium. Carrying the hopeful theme, “Integrative Biotechnology and Metabolomics: Innovations for a more Sustainable World,” the event served as a platform to weave together ideas and innovations for a better planet. The event was officially opened by the Dean of the UGM Graduate School, who in her opening remarks emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary synergy in addressing global challenges. The atmosphere of togetherness was further warmed by a captivating traditional dance performance and a ceremonial MoU signing between UGM and Biotis, marking a tangible commitment to strengthening the bridge between academia and industry.
The scientific forum featured four keynote speakers, each with deep expertise in their respective fields. The morning session, moderated by Dr. Tri Rini Nuringtyas, S.Si., M.Sc., presented Prof. Dr. Mohamad Rafi from IPB University and Prof. Dr. Abdul Rohman from UGM. Both speakers thoroughly discussed various breakthroughs relevant to agriculture, industry, and health. The participants’ enthusiasm was evident in the interactive Q&A session, reflecting a thirst for knowledge and innovative solutions. In the afternoon session, it was Muhammad Saifur Rohman, S.P., M.Si., M.Eng, Ph.D. from UGM and Prof. James P. J. Chong from the University of York who took the stage. Guided by Yumechris Amekan, S.Si., M.Biotech, Ph.D., this session broadened the discussion to the realms of environmental biotechnology and metabolomics. The presence of an international speaker affirmed that the spirit to build a sustainable world is a universal call that transcends national borders.
More than just a stage for experts, SNB XI was also an event to appreciate researchers with panel sessions and the announcement of the Best Presenter at the end of the day. This demonstrated a commitment to foster a supportive and regenerative research ecosystem. Overall, this event was a forum for exchanging scientific ideas andt also a celebration of hope. This meeting of experts has reignited the awareness that with heart, consciousness, and collaboration, science can be crafted into tangible solutions to create a more sustainable world for future generations.
Author: Berlian Belasuni