Login
Register

Tag: Indonesia

FK UNAIR assists measles outbreak response

Posted on by Universitas Airlangga News

The Faculty of Medicine Universitas Airlangga (FK UNAIR) is actively supporting the implementation of the Measles Outbreak Response Immunization (ORI) program in Sumenep Regency, East Java. The program runs from Monday, August 25, 2025, through Saturday, September 6, 2025, following the declaration of a measles outbreak that has already claimed multiple lives in the region.

The measles outbreak response is being carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Health (Kemenkes), the East Java Provincial Health Office, the Sumenep Regency Health Office, FK UNAIR, and the Faculty of Public Health. On Wednesday (August 27, 2025), FK UNAIR Vice Dean III Dr. Sulistiawati, dr., M.Kes., stated that the urgent demand for physicians in the ORI program prompted UNAIR’s involvement.

“Vaccination teams on-site are fully staffed, but additional physician support remains necessary, especially for advocacy and supervision. That is why FK UNAIR deployed a team, particularly from the Department of Pediatrics,” she explained.

The FK UNAIR team was dispatched in three waves. The first group, led by dr. Dwi Yanti Puspitasari, DTMH, MCTM, Sp.A(K), along with dr. Alpha Fardah Athiyyah, Sp.A(K), and other pediatric residents, immediately coordinated with the Ministry of Health and local officials to identify areas with the lowest immunization coverage.

“Our support is focused on communities where ORI coverage is still below 10 percent. One example is TK Qurrota Ayun, where 200 children were targeted for vaccination,” explained dr. Athiyyah.

Alongside immunizations, the team also conducted educational sessions for parents and healthcare workers, while overseeing screening and post-vaccination monitoring.

In addition to assisting with vaccinations, the FK UNAIR team ensured that healthcare workers were prepared to manage potential Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI). Public outreach efforts emphasized the importance of measles vaccines and the proper medical response to possible side effects.

“The critical message is that measles is highly contagious and can be fatal if not prevented through immunization. Vaccination not only protects children individually but also safeguards the community,” stressed dr. Puspitasari.

Preliminary reports show that the number of measles patients at Sumenep General Hospital has decreased from 22 to 6. However, fatalities caused by pneumonia-related complications remain a serious concern. “Most patients arrive late and already in severe condition, making treatment extremely difficult,” said dr. Puspitasari.

She also emphasized that ORI is provided to all children within the eligible age group, regardless of their prior vaccination history. “The goal of ORI is to protect every child. The decision is based on the child’s health at the time of vaccination. If the child is sick or has a fever, the vaccine is postponed. If healthy, the vaccine is administered,” she explained.

By carrying out ORI simultaneously, health officials hope to expand vaccine coverage and curb measles transmission. Through collaboration between national and regional authorities and academic institutions, UNAIR continues to strengthen its role in advancing public health while contributing to measles outbreak response efforts in Indonesia.

Coalition for Justice

Posted on by Tabitha Riyani Simbolon

The Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FISIP USU), hosted a meeting of the Civil Society Coalition in Medan, bringing together 18 organizations committed to advancing restorative justice in narcotics-related cases. The forum underlined that collaboration among universities, professional associations, and grassroots organizations can create more humane and effective alternatives to punitive approaches.

The event was organized in partnership with the Indonesian Addiction Counselors Association (IKAI) North Sumatra, Yayasan Karisma, Yayasan Galatea, and the Social Welfare Study Program of FISIP USU, with support from the Elton John AIDS Foundation. A wide range of organizations including LBH Medan, PUSAKA Indonesia, Yayasan Medan Plus, and Yayasan Rumah Harapan Sehat took part, reflecting the coalition’s inclusive and diverse character.

Structured around plenary presentations and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), the forum encouraged participants to exchange insights and develop practical strategies. From these discussions, three main priorities were identified: strengthening the coalition’s institutional capacity, improving documentation of restorative justice practices carried out by the police, and building sustainable advocacy frameworks that ensure long-term collaboration.

One FGD sparked particular interest by proposing the establishment of a Medan City branch of the National Narcotics Agency (BNN). Developed in cooperation with the Medan Regional Research Agency (BRIDA) and FISIP USU, the idea was viewed as an important opportunity to enhance local capacity in addressing narcotics issues through prevention, law enforcement, and rehabilitation programs.

Participants also emphasized that restorative justice should be seen not only as a legal mechanism but also as a pathway to broader social justice. They highlighted that this approach is more effective in repairing relationships between offenders, victims, and communities, while also reducing the recurrence of minor narcotics offenses. Such perspectives demonstrate a growing awareness that justice systems must be adapted to social contexts rather than relying solely on punitive measures.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to build stronger, more systematic, and sustainable cooperation between civil society organizations and law enforcement agencies. Participants expressed optimism that the outcomes of this forum will help shape a justice system that is legally sound, socially responsive, and rooted in values of fairness, inclusivity, and humanity.

By positioning restorative justice within both legal and social frameworks, the coalition seeks to advance reforms that not only address narcotics cases more effectively but also strengthen community resilience and compassion in the long run.

Summer Program FPEB UPI & Universiti Malaya

Posted on by UNIVERSITAS PENDIDIKAN INDONESIA

The Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Business Education (FPEB) at the Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI), Prof. Dr. Ratih Hurriyati, M.P., CSBA, officially opened the series of activities for The 6th FPEB Summer Program 2025, an annual international academic program that brings together students and academics from FPEB UPI and Universiti Malaya, Malaysia.

The 6th FPEB Summer Program 2025 not only provides academic experience, but also opens up opportunities for cultural interaction and soft skills development among participants. Through this activity, it is hoped that a broader understanding will be built regarding the importance of cross-border collaboration in developing joint solutions to future global challenges.

The objective of the 6th FPEB Summer Program 2025 is to build a cross-border collaboration space in the fields of education and business, as well as to become a forum for the exchange of knowledge, culture, and global perspectives for participants.

The first day of the 6th FPEB Summer Program began with an opening ceremony, followed by a tour of the UPI campus using the UPI Shuttle as part of an introduction to the academic environment and local culture. This was followed by two main sessions held in the FPEB Smartclass room. The first session focused on Design Thinking for Global Problem Solving, discussing how creative and innovative thinking approaches can be used to address various cross-border challenges

The event continued with a presentation on the topic of We Can Solve By Using The Same Kind Design Thinking and Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Business Innovation, which discussed the role of artificial intelligence in supporting sustainable innovation in the business world. Participants were active in discussions and Q&A sessions, showing enthusiasm in understanding the role of technology in shaping the future of global industry.

The second day of the 6th FPEB Summer Program began with an introduction to the various facilities at the Faculty of Economics and Business Education to the participants. They had the opportunity to visit several laboratories, including the Microteaching Laboratory for teaching practice, the Forensic Laboratory for accounting examination, and the Business Education Study Program laboratory for digital printing practice. Additionally, participants also visited the Space Ex Lab and the Sharia Investment Gallery to see firsthand the various activities of FPEB students outside of lectures.

In the next session, participants were divided into groups to work on business prototype projects using the design thinking method and integrating AI technology into their business ideas. On the third day, each group presented their business ideas and showcased the prototypes they had designed. Held in the FPEB Auditorium, Building A, participants received input and feedback from a number of experts, including FPEB UPI lecturers and academics from the University of Malaya.

The event continued with a Cultural Showcase featuring the arts and culture of each country participating in the Summer Program. Participants from UPI presented a variety of arts, such as poetry readings, West Javanese folk songs, traditional dances, and kaulinan barudak. Meanwhile, participants from the University of Malaya performed Malaysian folk songs and the Boria dance, a popular Malay theater performance on Penang Island that combines elements of dance, music, drama, and comedy.

ITS Robotics Team Claims 16 Global Titles

Posted on by ITS Global Engagement

The Robotics Team from Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) has once again shown its strength on the global stage, securing 16 awards at the Federation of International Robot Association (FIRA) Roboworld Cup 2025, held in Daegu, South Korea. FIRA is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the global robotics industry and serving as a platform for researchers to exchange ideas and innovations. This year, ITS participated in three competition categories: autonomous car robots, adult-size humanoid robots, and kid-size humanoid robots. 

According to the ITS Robotics Team Coordinator, Mr. Muhtadin, the university was represented by two sub-teams, Iris and Ichiro. In the autonomous car category, Team Iris achieved outstanding results by winning 1st place in both the Physics Pro and Race challenges, while also securing 2nd place in the Urban challenge. 

Meanwhile, Team Ichiro dominated the adult-size humanoid category, sweeping 1st place in five events: the United Challenge, All-round, Manipulation, Hybrid, and Mobility. Ichiro also deployed two teams in the kid-size humanoid category, which consistently reached the podium across all events. The first team captured second place in the All-round, Manipulation, Hybrid, and Mobility challenges. Meanwhile, the second team also secured strong results by achieving third place in the same four events: All-round, Manipulation, Hybrid, and Mobility. 

Before competing in the main event at EXCO, Daegu, from August 11 to 15, 2025, the ITS Robotics Team had conducted extensive research and innovation since February 2025. Their preparations included submitting scientific papers detailing robot specifications and material usage, as well as continuous evaluations during trial phases. 

The team’s accomplishments at the FIRA Roboworld Cup also reflect ITS’ strong commitment to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by fostering cutting-edge research and developing technologies that can strengthen future industries. At the same time, the competition experience itself embodies Goal 4 (Quality Education), as it provides students with hands-on learning, international exposure, and the opportunity to transform classroom knowledge into real-world innovation. Through these efforts, ITS not only promotes academic excellence but also prepares the next generation of engineers to create meaningful solutions for society. 

 

ITS & UNAIR Lead ASEAN BCG Network Meeting 2025

Posted on by ITS Global Engagement

Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) continues to assert its leadership in sustainable research and innovation by hosting the prestigious ASEAN Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) Economy Network Meeting & Conference 2025 on 14 June 2025, in collaboration with Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR). This forum positions ITS and UNAIR at the center of ASEAN’s efforts to integrate bio, circular, and green economy principles into regional research strategies.

The event brought together delegates from 8 (eight) ASEAN member states along with Japan as a dialogue partner. The representatives, drawn from universities and research institutions, were introduced to several of ITS’ flagship initiatives in sustainable technology and innovation. 

One of the highlights was a visit to the Renewable Energy Integration Demonstrator of Indonesia (REIDI), a pioneering ITS and Nanyang Technological University (NUS) project integrating solar panels, biomass, and rooftop agriculture to generate 300 kWh of independent, renewable electricity. “REIDI reflects ITS’ readiness to contribute to ASEAN’s energy transition through a self-sustained, research-based innovation platform,” explained Dr. Dedet Candra Riawan, REIDI’s Operational Coordinator. 

Further showcasing its research strength, ITS presented its collaboration with Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore on Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae research. Conducted at ITS’ Environmental Engineering Laboratory, the project supports circular waste management by converting organic waste into high-value biomass for fertilizers, animal feed, and bioplastics. Prof. I Dewa Ayu Agung Warmadewanthi, Head of the ITS Sustainable Infrastructure and Environment Research Center, emphasized the potential of this research to address regional waste challenges through scalable, nature-based solutions. 

The event also highlighted ITS’ academic innovation through its Biotechnology Study Program, which now offers a curriculum focused on green biotechnology. According to Dr. Triono Bagus Saputro, Head of the Program, students will be trained in cutting-edge research such as plant metabolite extraction, nanoparticle production, and microalgae-based protein development. 

Prof. Ketut Eddy Purnama, Chairperson of the BCG Forum and Head of ITS Center for AI and Digital Technology, closed the forum with a clear vision: “We envision ITS as a collaborative hub for ASEAN in shaping a resilient future. Ecologically, economically, and socially.” 

Through this event, ITS reinforces its position as a regional leader in sustainability-focused higher education and research, building networks that transcend borders to realize a greener, more innovative ASEAN.

USU and UINSU Preserve Mangroves

Posted on by Jemima Frieda Lumbantobing

Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) through the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences carried out a community engagement program in collaboration with Universitas Islam Negeri Sumatera Utara (UINSU). The initiative focused on mangrove rehabilitation in the coastal area of Denai Kuala, Deli Serdang, North Sumatra. The activity contributes to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 13 on climate action and Goal 14 on life below water.

The program was coordinated by the Social Welfare Study Program of FISIP USU together with the Islamic Community Development Study Program of UINSU. Faculty members and students from both universities joined local community group pk. KEPLING to conduct socialization, environmental education, and the planting of 100 mangrove seedlings on Pulau Oong.

The activity began with an introduction from the leader of pk. KEPLING, who explained the ecological functions of mangroves in preventing coastal abrasion and supporting marine biodiversity. After the session, participants planted mangrove seedlings in designated areas. Despite heavy rain during the journey to the site, the activity continued with strong participation and commitment.

For students, the program provided a direct learning experience by combining academic knowledge with practical action. The collaboration between USU and UINSU encouraged them to engage with real issues of community empowerment and environmental preservation. It also nurtured awareness and responsibility toward sustainable development among young scholars.

The mangrove seedlings planted are expected to grow within three to five years and strengthen the coastal ecosystem of Denai Kuala. Beyond the ecological impact, the program highlighted the importance of university partnerships in addressing social and environmental challenges.

This initiative reflects FISIP USU’s continuous commitment to impactful community engagement. By working with partner institutions and local communities, the faculty demonstrated its role in advancing knowledge that benefits society and the environment while motivating students to contribute actively to sustainable futures.

ITS’ Sapuangin Rules Shell Eco-Marathon 2025

Posted on by ITS Global Engagement

The Sapuangin Team from Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) has claimed first place in the prestigious Autonomous Programming Competition (APC), a key event in the Shell Eco-Marathon 2025 series. This marks the team’s second major victory this year, following their win at the Shell Eco-Marathon on-track competition held at Lusail International Circuit, Qatar, from February 8–12, 2025. Together, these achievements reaffirm their growing expertise in autonomous systems and energy-efficient mobility on the international stage. 

Held virtually from April to May 2025, the APC challenged university teams worldwide to develop intelligent driving algorithms capable of navigating virtual environments with maximum efficiency. Using ROS and CARLA simulators and a virtual Tesla Model 3, each team was given ten minutes to complete a simulated driving route while minimizing energy consumption. 

“Our biggest challenge was adjusting to a tighter, more complex simulation map,” explained Nurul Ilmi Rojabia Hermuttaqien, APC team leader. “We had to fine-tune our algorithm multiple times to ensure the vehicle could drive efficiently, avoid collisions, and stay within energy targets.” 

The Sapuangin team focused on building an autonomous driving system that prioritized route efficiency, collision avoidance, and real-time optimization. The result was a system that outperformed teams from across the Asia Pacific and beyond. 

This win adds to a series of recent achievements by Sapuangin at the Shell Eco-Marathon Asia Pacific and the Middle East 2025, where they also won 1st place in the Urban Concept Commercial Engine category, 1st place in Vehicle Design, 2nd place in Data and Telemetry, and 3rd place in the Regional Championship. 

Team member Bagus Subekti emphasized the importance of resilience throughout the competition. “Despite limited resources and a packed timeline, we stayed committed. This win reflects not just our technical skill, but our determination to keep pushing forward.” 

Beyond competition results, this success also reflects ITS’s broader commitment to enhancing the students’ learning experience. By ensuring close academic supervision and involving highly qualified research staff, ITS fosters an environment where students from all backgrounds can thrive on high-impact projects, such as Sapuangin. 

Backed by ITS through strong research support and development facilities, the team plans to continue refining its autonomous technology and hopes to inspire other students to compete globally in the field of smart mobility. 

“This isn’t just about winning a competition,” said Nurul. “It’s about proving that Indonesian students can lead in future mobility innovation.” 

UNAIR sustainable initiatives in Gili Iyang

Posted on by Universitas Airlangga News

The Sustainable Energy and Green Technology Applications (SEGTA) program has once again embarked on a community engagement mission. Hosted by the Faculty of Advanced Technology and Multidiscipline (FTMM), this international initiative reflects a strong commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). On Sunday, August 10, 2025, SEGTA conducted activities in Kalianget and Gili Iyang, Sumenep, Madura, drawing participation from 91 individuals, including international students and faculty. This year’s efforts centered on six targeted projects in the Sumenep region.

The projects included: Solar-Powered Hydroponics: A Solution for Enhancing Food Security and Reducing Reliance on Fossil Fuels; Coconut Tree Planting to Preserve Oxygen Quality in Gili Iyang, Education Outreach; Empowering Students through Electric Mobility and Renewable Energy Education, Real-Time Air Quality Monitoring: Toward a Green and Sustainable Gili Iyang Island, Drone Applications; Green Technology, and Policy for Supporting Sustainable Tourism; and Maintaining Solar Shelters to Ensure Renewable Energy Quality in Gili Iyang.

According to Prof. Dr. Retna Apsari, M.Si., FTMM’s Vice Dean for Research, Innovation, Community Engagement, and Partnerships, the Kalianget program concentrated on the solar-powered hydroponics project. Hosted at a melon greenhouse operated by Bumdes Setia Makmur in West Kalianget Village, the event featured sessions by Rizki Putra Prastio, S.Si., M.T., a lecturer in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Engineering, and Dr. Tri Siwi Agustina, S.E., M.Si., from UNAIR’s Faculty of Economics and Business.

While differing from conventional hydroponic systems, Prastio explained that the greenhouse could greatly benefit from Internet of Things (IoT) integration. Drawing from a project in Ngerong, Pasuruan, he noted that IoT combined with solar power can significantly boost crop yields for vegetables such as bok choy and lettuce. Effective implementation, however, would require aerial mapping through drone-based photography.

Meanwhile, Tahta Amrillah, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., a Nanotechnology Engineering lecturer at FTMM and coordinator of the Coconut Tree Planting initiative, oversaw the planting of 20 coconut saplings at Green Island Gili Iyang—a newly developed green tourism site. Coconut trees serve dual purposes: providing ecological benefits such as windbreaks and coastal protection, and offering substantial economic value through their diverse byproducts. The planting was carried out symbolically and involved international student representatives.

Another SEGTA innovation this year was the promotion of biofertilizers—organic fertilizers derived from naturally occurring microorganisms through the fermentation of organic waste. These biofertilizers improve plant growth and enhance soil fertility without harmful chemicals. The SEGTA team also trained local residents in biofertilizer production and application, empowering them to use the method in their own farms.

The initiative aligns with SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land), furthering Gili Iyang’s vision as a model for green tourism.

As part of the Real-Time Air Quality Monitoring program, Dr. Agus Mukhlisin, S.T., M.T., deployed technology to track oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in real time. “Accurate, real-time oxygen monitoring is essential for understanding environmental health. With this data, communities can better appreciate the need to maintain Gili Iyang’s high oxygen levels,” Dr. Mukhlisin said.

The monitoring device was installed at the Bancamara Health Center on Gili Iyang. It provides direct readings of oxygen concentration (%vol) and carbon dioxide levels (ppm). As of Sunday, August 10, 2025, the system recorded oxygen levels at 20.89%. This effort reflects FTMM’s commitment to SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

UNAIR alumnus named ambassador

Posted on by Universitas Airlangga News

An alumnus of Universitas Airlangga has earned recognition on the international stage. K. Candra Negara, an alumnus of the International Relations program at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) UNAIR, has been appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Indonesia to Mozambique, concurrently accredited to Malawi. He was officially sworn in by President Prabowo Subianto on Monday (March 24, 2025) at the State Palace in Jakarta.

Ambassador Negara reflected that his years at UNAIR, especially in the FISIP academic environment, expanded his worldview and shaped his cultural awareness. Participating in wide-ranging discussions, studying global cultures through courses on society, culture, and politics, and being part of an open intellectual community gave him the perspective now essential in diplomacy.  “UNAIR taught me how to empathize and engage with diverse cultures. In the international arena, the ability to understand differences is not just an advantage—it is indispensable,” he said.

Although becoming an ambassador was never his explicit goal, Ambassador Negara pursued each stage of his diplomatic career with dedication and a commitment to continuous development. He credits UNAIR with instilling a growth mindset and strategic thinking—qualities that have proven vital in every overseas assignment.

Assigned to Mozambique and Malawi, Ambassador Negara quickly encountered challenges unique to the region. “The lack of information exchange and the limited understanding between Indonesian and Southern African communities presented particular hurdles. But we have started to address these through a series of strategic measures,” he explained.

One of his top priorities is maximizing the Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) between Indonesia and Mozambique. This agreement is particularly significant as Mozambique remains the only African country with such a trade accord with Indonesia. Ambassador Negara sees Mozambique as a gateway for Indonesian products to reach landlocked nations in Southern Africa, including Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Malawi.

In addition to trade, he is also advocating for a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) designed to provide legal protections for Indonesian investments in the region.“We want Indonesian investments not only to expand but also to be legally safeguarded. With this agreement, our investors will have both certainty and the confidence to venture further into Africa,” he emphasized.

WUACD Summit boosts ASEAN collaboration

Posted on by Universitas Airlangga News

Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) proudly hosted the 2025 WUACD Summit, held in conjunction with the ASEAN Microbial Biotechnology Conference (AMBC 2025) and the ASEAN Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) Network Conference. The summit, running from Friday to Sunday (June 13–15, 2025), was held at the ASEEC Tower, Dharmawangsa-B Campus, UNAIR, Surabaya. The international summit welcomed representatives from over 12 countries and featured a comprehensive lineup of conferences, workshops, MoU signings, and field visits to community outreach sites.

 

This year’s conference aimed to strengthen regional collaboration across ASEAN nations in microbiology, biotechnology, and community development—fields increasingly vital in the face of global issues such as climate change, food insecurity, and biodiversity loss. The event brought together academics, researchers, private sector representatives, and international development organizations.

 

Building networks, creating solutions

In her opening remarks, Prof. Dr. Ni Nyoman Tri Puspaningsih, M.Si, UNAIR Vice Rector for Research, Innovation, and Community Development, described the conference as a key opportunity to align interdisciplinary research efforts across borders. “Today, we are not just hosting a conference—we are uniting global networks to strengthen international and cross-disciplinary partnerships. We hope this leads to new collaborations with real impact on communities,” Prof. Puspaningsih stated.

 

Echoing her remarks, AMBC 2025 Chair Prof. Dr. Ni’matuzahroh emphasized the forum’s role as a hub for knowledge exchange and regional innovation. “This forum is essential for fostering dialogue, innovation, and partnerships among microbiology and biotechnology experts across ASEAN, in support of sustainable development,” she noted.

 

Microbial science and innovation for ASEAN’s future

Prof. Dr. Ni’matuzahroh also highlighted the importance of leveraging the momentum of the conference to tackle future regional challenges through strengthened interdisciplinary cooperation. “This event serves as a platform to expand professional networks, deepen scientific perspectives, and drive innovative research collaborations that address upcoming crises,” she said.