UNAIR and UTM Malaysia develop solar panel project

Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), through the Word University Association for Community Development (WUACD), has partnered with Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) to launch a community service initiative. This program, part of the Community Service (KKN) Equivalency Program, took place in Licin District, Banyuwangi Regency, on Tuesday, March 4, 2025.

A key focus of the initiative was training local farmers on the assembly and application of solar panels to power an automated irrigation system. Muhammad Aiman, a UTM student, highlighted that solar energy technology provides farmers with an efficient and sustainable means to maintain soil fertility while reducing costs. To date, this technology has been successfully implemented in Jelun Village and Banjar Village.

“This initiative has received highly positive feedback from the local community. Residents appreciate the technology as it helps reduce dependence on conventional electricity, which is more expensive,” Aiman noted.

In addition to promoting renewable energy, the program also included a creative skills workshop for children in Banjar Village, where they learned how to weave bracelets. Aiman explained that this activity, guided by both UNAIR and UTM students, provided an engaging and enriching experience for the children.

“The children showed great enthusiasm throughout the bracelet-making process and eagerly displayed their handmade creations to the community. Village officials and residents warmly welcomed this initiative, recognizing its direct benefits in fostering agricultural sustainability and enhancing children’s creativity,” he stated.

Aiman emphasized that the community service program has provided him with valuable hands-on experience in educating communities about self-sufficient technological solutions. He also underscored the broader impact of the collaboration between UNAIR and UTM Malaysia, which extends beyond technological advancement to skill development and creative enrichment.

“Programs like this encourage further innovation, equipping communities with practical solutions to improve various aspects of daily life,” he concluded.

UNAIR student team clinches international gold medal for IoT-based work fatigue measurement device

A team of students from Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) has once again earned international recognition. At the International Invention and Innovation Competition (I3C) 2025, the UNAIR team secured a prestigious gold medal. Organized by the Malaysia Innovation Invention Creativity Association (MIICA), this year’s competition carried the theme Empowering Minds, Transforming Futures. The UNAIR team impressed judges with STIREACT, an Internet of Things (IoT)-based device designed to measure work fatigue.

The team consists of Ibrahim Al Khawwas, Nasywa Dhiyaul Haq, and Diva Firnanda Azzahra from the Faculty of Vocational Studies; Imamul Aziz from the Faculty of Pharmacy; and Farhan Aldan Khairian from the Faculty of Science and Technology. Competing against 1,500 teams from various countries, they showcased their innovative project in an online competition held on Sunday (March 10, 2025).

IoT-integrated work fatigue measurement

In this global innovation and invention contest, the UNAIR team developed the Smart Timer Reaction (STIREACT), a standardized device for measuring work fatigue. The invention was inspired by the widespread issue of occupational fatigue, which significantly affects industries by reducing productivity and increasing the risk of workplace accidents.

Many existing work fatigue measurement tools lack IoT integration. “This gap prompted us to develop an IoT-integrated work fatigue measurement device,” Ibrahim Al Khawwas explained.

Their research involved collecting data through the IoT-powered STIREACT device, supplemented by interviews and surveys. The data was then analyzed using internationally recognized work fatigue measurement standards. Results indicated that STIREACT demonstrated a high degree of accuracy in assessing work fatigue levels.

Strategies for international competition

Al Khawwas emphasized that success in international competitions requires ensuring the uniqueness and innovation of an invention through extensive literature reviews and global patent studies. “This step is essential to verify that STIREACT is a novel innovation with distinct advantages over existing technologies,” he noted.

Furthermore, strengthening teamwork and fostering collaboration were crucial in effectively distributing tasks, with support from supervisors. Careful time management and rigorous practice were also key to structuring a comprehensive competition strategy, ensuring thorough preparation in all areas.

Overcoming challenges

Securing an international title came with significant challenges. One major obstacle was refining the device’s design and IoT technology to ensure optimal functionality and accuracy. It was also crucial to validate STIREACT’s effectiveness by comparing it with globally standardized work fatigue measurement tools.

Another challenge, according to Al Khawwas, was balancing competition preparation with academic responsibilities and extracurricular commitments, as the team comprised members from three different faculties. “Funding was also a major concern, as financial support was necessary for the device’s development and research,” he added.

Reflecting on their victory, Al Khawwas described winning an international competition as an incredible experience. He attributed their success to consistency, innovation, and dedication. “We hope this research-driven innovation will benefit many, aligning with our principle of staying humble regardless of our achievements,” he concluded.

Lecturer and Students of Environmental Engineering President Univ Become Presenter at International Conference

Ir. Temmy Wikaningrum, M.Sc., Head of the Environmental Engineering Study Program at President University (PresUniv) and three Environmental Engineering Study Program students, were presenters at the 4th International Conference on Sustainable Infrastructure and Built Environment (SIBE) 2022. The three students were, namely Putri Laila Anggraina, Sekar Arum, and Nurpita Sinurat. This conference was organized by the Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) and lasted for two days, Tuesday and Wednesday (8-9 March 2022). The seminars at this conference were divided into 10 sub-themes with 144 presenters from various institutions in Indonesia and abroad, covering civil engineering, ocean engineering, and environmental engineering.

Three studies were presented by PresUniv at this international conference were, namely The Study of Water Lettuce (Pistia Stratiotes L.) Application in Reducing COD Levels of Tofu Wastewater Using Batch System Phytoremediation; Study of Lerak (Sapindus Rarak) Biochar Application for Andosol Agricultural Soil Remediation; and “The Eco Enzyme Application For Reducing Nitrite in Wastewater as The Sustainability Alternative Solution in Garbage and Wastewater Problems. Temmy said that these three studies were conducted in order to find solutions to wastewater problems using natural materials. “This is done not to cause other harmful impacts and remain sustainable,” she said.

These three studies were collaborative research projects between the lecturers and students. Temmy hopes these collaborations will improve the quality and quantity of research at PresUniv. This follow the study program’s research strategic plan and helps improve the students’ research abilities as well as facilitates the dissemination of the papers in international scientific forums. Meanwhile, Nurpita said that this is one of her dreams to collaborate with lecturers in conducting research and participating in international conferences. “This conference gave me a new experiences and I lea ed a lot and I gained valuable new knowledge,” she said.

UNAIR’s MOGGY team wins silver medal at Thailand Inventors’ Day 2025

In response to the global pursuit of sustainable energy solutions, students from Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) have made a remarkable impression with their groundbreaking innovation. The MOGGY team, creators of the Microalgae Power Plant Biomass & Oxygen Production technology, secured a silver medal at Thailand Inventors’ Day 2025. Additionally, they received two distinguished accolades: a Special Prize from the Korea Invention Promotion Association (KIPA) and a special award for Best Presentation representing Indonesia.

MOGGY is an advanced system that leverages microalgae to sustainably produce electricity and oxygen. Designed to address the growing need for green energy solutions, this technology offers a promising alternative for the renewable energy sector.

“We seek to highlight the immense potential of microalgae in fostering environmental sustainability. This innovation could serve as a crucial step toward a more eco-friendly energy transition,” stated Andini Carolina, head of the UNAIR delegation.

The MOGGY team’s journey to the competition was fraught with challenges. From the preparation phase to the final presentation, they encountered various obstacles, including technical malfunctions during the final system trial and physical exhaustion due to the rigorous competition schedule.

“Each day, we had to walk considerable distances, take the BTS, and continue our journey to BITEC. Despite these difficulties, we remained committed to ensuring our innovation received the recognition it deserved,” Carolina explained.

One of the most unforgettable moments occurred when the team assumed the competition had concluded and was preparing to depart. Unexpectedly, the organizers approached their booth. “We were absolutely stunned when they announced that we had won additional awards from Invention Malaysia and Korea. It was a moment we will always cherish,” she added.

Beyond this achievement, the innovation has opened doors for further research and development. “We aspire for this innovation to evolve and be implemented on a larger scale. With the right advancements, we can develop more efficient and sustainable green energy solutions,” said Carolina.

The success of the MOGGY UNAIR team at Thailand Inventors’ Day 2025 further reaffirms that Indonesian students are capable of competing on a global stage with impactful innovations. “Never hesitate to innovate. The breakthroughs we create today could become the solutions the world needs in the future,” Carolina concluded.

UNAIR Law Faculty alumnus listed in Fortune Indonesia 40 Under 40

Universitas Airlangga’s (UNAIR) Faculty of Law proudly celebrates the recognition of one of its esteemed graduates, Abraham Sridjaja, who has been named in the prestigious Fortune Indonesia 40 Under 40 list. As a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR-RI) Commission 1 representing the Golkar Party faction, this accolade highlights his impactful contributions to politics and public policy.

In an interview on Friday (February 7, 2025), Sridjaja conveyed his deep gratitude and honor upon receiving the distinction. He emphasized that this recognition is not solely a personal achievement but a testament to the dedication, teamwork, and support from his colleagues and various stakeholders.

“This acknowledgment motivates me to continue working toward meaningful contributions to Indonesia, particularly in the realms of public policy and national development,” he stated.

UNAIR influence on career and leadership

Sridjaja credited his academic experience at UNAIR as instrumental in shaping his leadership approach and strategic thinking in politics. He highlighted the university’s dynamic learning environment, critical discourse, and rigorous policy studies as key factors in his broad understanding of social, legal, and political affairs.

“UNAIR provided more than just education—it instilled character and cultivated invaluable networks,” he remarked. He noted that his interactions with professors, peers, and alumni expanded his perspective and reinforced his commitment to serving the nation.

Dare to dream and embrace challenges

As an influential young leader, Sridjaja shared an inspiring message with UNAIR students aspiring to leadership roles. He underscored the importance of daring to dream big and embracing challenges head-on.

“The world today demands young leaders who are innovative, adaptable, and possess unwavering integrity. Develop strong competencies, gain diverse experiences, and commit to lifelong learning. Additionally, uphold moral and ethical values in all endeavors, because true leadership is not merely about wielding power—it is about service and making a meaningful impact,” he advised.

Future goals and aspirations

Looking forward, Sridjaja remains dedicated to championing forward-thinking policies that deliver tangible benefits to society. “I want to ensure that the policies we implement produce real, positive impacts on communities,” he affirmed.

Moreover, he aims to help create an ecosystem that nurtures youth development, both through youth-focused policies and various empowerment and educational initiatives.

“I firmly believe that the most valuable investment for our nation’s future is empowering young people. With the right opportunities and access, they can become the driving force behind transformative change,” Sridjaja concluded.

Visit to the Office of Cooperatives and UMKM in Batubara Regency by IAP USU Students: Encouraging Local Business Growth

In an effort to understand the dynamics of developing micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM), students from the Public Administration Program at Universitas Sumatera Utara visited the Office of Cooperatives and UMKM in Batubara Regency. This visit provided important insights into the office’s role in supporting over 8,000 UMKM spread across 12 districts in the region.

The Office of Cooperatives and UMKM in Batubara Regency is committed to providing guidance and outreach to small business owners. One of their primary focuses is to assist in promoting and marketing UMKM products. Through various programs, the office aims to help UMKM in Batubara “level up” and compete in an increasingly competitive market.

During the visit, we learned that the office also conducts training on digital finance. Additionally, they assist entrepreneurs with the necessary permits, such as the Business Identification Number (NIB), halal certification, BPOM, and food safety outreach.

The governance activities carried out by the Office of Cooperatives and UMKM are routine, recognizing the importance for business owners to compete in marketing their products. However, the office faces challenges, including budget constraints and a lack of personnel to review all UMKM in Batubara.

The office also provides annual training and physical assistance. “We strive to support UMKM to grow and compete at both local and national levels,” said one of the office officials.

Potential UMKM products in Batubara Regency include songket, sambal kepah, sagon kampung, keripik gosong, and woven goods. The Office of Cooperatives and UMKM works to introduce these products through events held periodically, allowing the wider community to recognize and purchase local products.

Centers for UMKM development in Batubara Regency are not centralized in one location, but are spread across each district. For example, in the District of Lima Puluh Pesisir, there is UMKM Dangai Limonam, while in Sei Balai District, UMKM focuses on snack products.

However, challenges remain for UMKM entrepreneurs, particularly regarding operational costs and product packaging. The Office of Cooperatives and UMKM assists in packaging design, but entrepreneurs must bear the material costs themselves. This often becomes a barrier for those wishing to enhance their product’s appeal.

Regarding capital assistance, the Office of Cooperatives and UMKM provides support annually in the form of training, promotion, and equipment. This year, they are also expected to provide capital assistance. Furthermore, the office collaborates with Bank Indonesia and local companies to strengthen support for UMKM entrepreneurs.

With the introduction of new regulations such as Law No. 7 of 2021, which governs capital and UMKM criteria, the Office of Cooperatives and UMKM offers outreach to entrepreneurs to help them adapt to regulatory changes and the dynamic market conditions.

This visit demonstrates that the Office of Cooperatives and UMKM in Batubara Regency is committed to continuously supporting the development of UMKM in the region. Although challenges persist, their efforts in providing training, assistance, and product promotion are expected to encourage the growth of local businesses and enhance the competitiveness of UMKM products in Batubara at both national and international levels.

UNAIR Faculty of Veterinary Medicine introduces silage feed technology and marketing strategies to dairy farmers

The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FKH) Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) recently conducted a community service event titled “Feed Management Improvement with Green Feed Processing Technology & Marketing Strategies for Dairy Cattle Post-FMD.” Held on Thursday, August 1, 2024, in Carangwulung Village, Wonosalam, Jombang, the program is aimed at local dairy farmers.

The event was officially opened by Prof. Dr. Sri Hidanah, the Head of FKH community service initiative. In her opening remarks, she hoped that the program would help farmers understand both food processing techniques and livestock product marketing strategies.

“Through this event, we hope all participants gain a better understanding of food processing and marketing techniques for livestock products. We will also provide further assistance with marketing,” she said.

Community service highlights

The program featured several sessions, each led by experts: Dr. Mohammad Anam Al Arif, Dr. Ira Sari Yudaniayanti, and Dr. Fatin Fadhilah Hasib. Dr. Emy Koestanti also participated, initiating a discussion on foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and other livestock health issues.

Dr. Mohammad Anam Al Arif began the presentations with an in-depth explanation of silage feed technology. The second session, led by Dr. Ira Sari Yudaniayanti, covered various causes of foot-and-mouth disease in livestock. The third session, presented by Dr. Fatin Fadhilah Hasib, focused on marketing dairy products.

Furthermore, the UNAIR team demonstrated proper silage-making techniques. Dr. Mohammad Anam Al Arif, along with a team of students, led the practical demonstration, which was observed by the attending farmers. Dr. Arif emphasized that proper silage-making practices significantly impact the quality of livestock and their products.

The community warmly welcomed the event, held at the Segunung Traditional Village Hall. Twenty-five residents and farmers attended. Widi Asmoro from the Anjasmoro Village Cooperative Unit (KUD) in Carangwulung represented the community’s and farmers’ responses.

In addition to Widi Asmoro, resident Gatot Sunarto expressed his appreciation for the FKH community service program. He found the event particularly helpful in terms of feed processing and livestock disease prevention. “This event has been very beneficial; my knowledge about cattle feed processing and disease prevention has increased. Many factors affect livestock health,” Sunarto said.

13th ICAS concluded, IIAS to continue collaboration with UNAIR

The 13th International Convention of Asia Scholars (ICAS) officially concluded on Thursday, August 1, 2024. Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), through the Airlangga Institute of Indian Ocean Crossroads (AIIOC), hosted this prestigious event, which commenced on Sunday, July 28, 2024.

13th ICAS was made possible through a robust partnership between UNAIR’s AIIOC and the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS), based in the Netherlands. Although 13th ICAS has been concluded, the collaboration between UNAIR and IIAS is set to continue.

Philippe Peycam, Director of IIAS, mentioned that the next step is to further develop AIIOC into a more significant unit. AIIOC initially started as a collaborative project between UNAIR and IIAS. “We will continue to work together to make AIIOC a successful unit, not just for the industry but also for the Indonesian government,” he stated.

Peycam noted that AIIOC has the potential to offer broader benefits to a wider audience. 13th ICAS has marked a significant milestone in AIIOC’s rapid development. “AIIOC has the potential to benefit not only UNAIR, the city of Surabaya, or East Java but also Indonesia and the entire world,” he said.

Exploring further collaboration

One of the potential areas of continued collaboration between UNAIR and IIAS is the establishment of a fellowship program. This program would provide opportunities for individuals to pursue further studies abroad.

“A fellowship will facilitate Indonesians in various activities, such as pursuing a PhD overseas and returning to their home country after the fellowship,” Peycam remarked on Thursday, August 1, 2024.

The fellowship can ease the exchange of knowledge across various disciplines. Peycam believes that AIIOC can grow into a research center as significant as IIAS, which has already become the largest Asian research center.

“Many people from around the world want to visit IIAS. Similarly, AIIOC has the opportunity to become a large interdisciplinary research center. They have successfully organized 13th ICAS, focusing on learning, discussion, and interdisciplinary research,” he explained.

Aiming reputation improvement

Peycam expressed his admiration for UNAIR’s efforts and dedication to its collaboration. UNAIR’s enthusiasm to enhance its reputation was highly praised by Peycam.

“UNAIR is always obsessed with enhancing its reputation, making various efforts including improving the quality of education. If UNAIR didn’t have this obsession, our collaboration might not have continued,” he said in an exclusive interview with UNAIR NEWS.

AIIOC Potential

Peycam is confident that within the next five to ten years, AIIOC will gain global recognition. An expanding AIIOC will facilitate the exchange of knowledge between countries.

“If people want to learn about Europe, Europeans can come to AIIOC without Indonesians needing to go to Europe. Although this requires a long process, I believe with cooperation, it is not impossible,” he emphasized.

Universitas Sumatera Utara, Humbang Hasundutan Regency: Advancing disaster mitigation through collaborative initiatives

Humbang Hasundutan (Humbahas) Regency is one of the disaster-prone areas in North Sumatera. The area is prone to landslides, which are exacerbated by deforestation and prolonged rainfall. The Humbahas region has a high rainfall intensity with a poor surface drainage system. This triggers hydrometeorological disasters in the form of floods and landslides. From these disasters, the society felt great losses such as infrastructure damage in residential areas, damage to plantations, rice fields, and crop failure. As an anticipatory step and implementation of the Tri Dharma of Higher Education, Lembaga Pengabdian Pada Masyarakat Universitas Sumatera Utara (LPPM USU) organizes disaster mitigation and adaptation activities through the Society Service Program (PKM) thematic disaster mitigation and adaptation.

The program, launched on July 4th, 2024, at the Bukit Barisan Hall in Humbahas Regency, represents a crucial collaboration between Lembaga Pengabdian Pada Masyarakat (LPPM) USU and the Humbahas regional government. This initiative aims to equip the region with the tools and knowledge to effectively minimize the impact of disasters. Tua Marsatti Marbun as a representative of the Humbahas Regency government stated about this launch signifies a commitment to provide stakeholders involved in the disaster mitigation program with the necessary resources and infrastructur.

The program operates under two distinct schemes: the PKM Assisted Village Program and the PKM Regular Mono Year. The PKM Assisted Village Program takes a long-term approach, providing multi-year support to designated villages. Conversely, the PKM Regular Mono Year program focuses on short-term interventions. Dr. Oding Effendy, the implementing coordinator of the disaster mitigation thematic activities, elaborated that both programs will run for seven months each year, spanning a total of nine locations and encompassing a range of activities.

The program tackles disaster preparedness on multiple fronts. One key activity involves the formation of Disaster Resilient Villages (DESTANA) which empowers communities to manage potential threats, environmental conservation (tree planting), economic development (sustainable tourism), and public health improvement. Furthermore, a unique initiative involves designing disaster mitigation gymnastics for elementary school students, aiming to instill a culture of preparedness from a young age.

The program launch fostered a vibrant discussion with Ir. Yusak Maryunianta, M.P. (Chief Executive of PKM Assisted Village), Dra. Fatma Wardy Lubis, M.A. (Chief Executive of PKM Regular Mono Year), Benthon Juber Lumban Gaol, ST., M.Si. (Head of BPBD North Sumatera), and Manutur Parulian Naibaho, S.Sos., S.H., M.Si. (Head of Prevention and Preparedness). One crucial concern raised was the need to address the underlying economic factors that contribute to environmental destruction. Recognizing this, USU emphasizes a holistic approach, extending its support beyond disaster mitigation and adaptation to encompass local economic development initiatives. By empowering communities economically, the program aims to reduce the pressure on natural resources driven by poverty. Through this activity, it is hoped that the entire implementation team and also the stakeholders involved will be able to realize each planned program so that it is right on target according to the needs of the society in Humbang Hasundutan Regency.

FISIP USU, TULAR NALAR MAFINDO organise an Academy Digital Lansia (ADL) class to digitally empower the elderly

To assist the elderly to be empowered by the internet, Tular Nalar 3.0 Mafindo with support from Google.org in collaboration with FISIP USU held an ACADEMI DIGITAL LANSIA (ADL) held at the Catholic Church ST. Fransiskus Asisi, Pasar 6 Padang Bulan, Medan City. This Akademi Digital Lansia (ADL) is a digital literacy training activity aimed at the elderly so that they are empowered to use digital media (internet).

The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reports that the life expectancy (UHH) of the Indonesian population will reach 73.93 years in 2023. Based on the 2023 Elderly Population Statistics published by the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), as many as 49.56% of the elderly already use gadgets. However, only a fifth have access to and use the internet. Elderly people, including vulnerable groups, need to be well-informed so that they are not easily fooled by digital fraud and the spread of fake news which is currently on the rise, especially ahead of a large-scale disaster, namely the regional head elections to be held in November 2024.

This activity was opened by RP.David D. Barus OFMConv. as Pastor of the Catholic Church of ST. Fransiskus Asisi Padang Bulan. In his remarks, Pastor David expressed his support for implementing the Academi Digital Lansia which is also considered important now. He expressed his full support for implementing this Academi Digital Lansia which is also expected to be carried out repeatedly and reach more elderly people from a wider range of areas, especially in the ST. Fransiskus Asisi Padang Bulan.

Also giving a speech, Yovita Sabarina Sitepu S.Sos., M.Si., as PIC Tular Nalar FISIP USU explained the Academi Digital Lansia that will be implemented along with a brief explanation of the assistance that will be carried out online after this Academi Digital Lansia activity is carried out. “The elderly are one of the groups that are vulnerable to becoming victims of digital crime today, therefore this activity aims to help improve the digital literacy skills of the Indonesian people, especially among the elderly,” he explained.

On a separate occasion, Mafindo Tular Nalar 3.0 Program Manager, Santi Indra Astuti, gave a speech and explained that Tular Nalar, which has been present since 2020, aims to instill the habit of critical thinking among the public while facing the upcoming information flow. “Currently we are dealing with the swift flow of thoughts and the flow of information that is challenging during the election period, so that is our current challenge,” she said in the welcome video.

The Academi Digital Lansia is carried out using the microteaching method, where one facilitator assists 10 participants, namely the elderly. The elderly are invited to recognize the challenges of the elderly in the digital world with BERBUDI (Bersama Bugar Digital). They are also introduced to fraud prevention measures with the concept of WAKUNCAR [Waspadai (Beware), Kunjungi (Visit), Cari (Search)], where in this segment the elderly are invited to analyze news with the ABCD game or Amati, Baca, Cari, Diskusikan (Observe, Read, Check the Facts, and Discuss). In this segment, the elderly are given the opportunity to discuss and analyze the news previously provided by the facilitator.

In addition to playing to discuss and analyze the news, the elderly are also introduced to the chaos that is usually found in content circulating on social media, namely Kacau IDE (Kacau Isi, Kacau Diri, and Kacau Emosi). At the end of the segment, the elderly and all facilitators held a cellphone exercise guided by the companion. The series of events went smoothly and enthusiastically.

Yovita said that, based on their observations during the activity, participants enthusiastically shared stories about fraud that happened to their acquaintances and misinformation that they received during the last presidential election season. Even during the “senam ponsel”, the elderly were so enthusiastic that the exercise was repeated twice. “Next week, during the mentoring activity, hopefully the participants will be able to apply the Wakuncar technique when receiving suspicious information either from WhatsApp, Facebook, or SMS,” she explained.