Mataram, University of Mataram – The Rector of the University of Mataram (Unram) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK) and the Agency for Environmental Protection and Management (BPPLH) on Monday, July 28, 2025, in Jakarta. The signing took place during the Rector Forum: Collaboration between KLHK and Higher Education Institutions, which aims to strengthen national synergy in research-based and community service based environmental management.

This event marks a shared commitment to developing strategic collaboration in the areas of environmental protection and management, regional capacity building, and accelerating the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Key issues discussed included strengthening the Environmental Protection and Management Plan (RPPLH), Strategic Environmental Assessment (KLHS), Mangrove Ecosystem Protection and Management Plan (RPPEM), Environmental Quality Index (IKLH), as well as other strategic issues such as the water resource crisis, climate change, critical land degradation, and suboptimal waste management all of which are pressing challenges in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Province.

The Rector of the University of Mataram, Prof. Ir. Bambang Hari Kusumo, M.Agr.St., Ph.D., in his presentation, stated that Unram is ready to be an active partner in supporting environmental policies based on data and scientific knowledge.

“Unram is committed to becoming an impactful university. We have more than 26,155 students and 1,339 lecturers/researchers who can be mobilized to strengthen environmental agendas, including through Thematic Community Service Programs, Climate Village Programs, and the drafting of regulations such as regional regulations and environmental protection and management plans,” he explained.

He also added that West Nusa Tenggara faces serious challenges, such as 81% of daily waste remaining unmanaged, 490 thousand hectares of critical land, and a projected worsening water deficit by 2030. Therefore, cross-sector collaboration is needed to address these issues.

“We are ready to support innovations in waste management, renewable energy, spring protection, and community-based land rehabilitation,” added Prof. Bambang.

Meanwhile, the Head of LPPM Unram, Dr. Andi Chairil Ichsan, S.Hut., M.Si, emphasized the importance of the pentahelix approach. “A university must not work alone. We are ready to serve as a bridge between the government, communities, businesses, media, and academics to produce science-based and sustainable solutions.”

Through this collaboration, Unram reaffirms its position as a higher education institution that not only focuses on academic excellence but is also proactive in creating real impact for society and the environment. Unram strengthens its identity as an impactful campus and a key player in the collective effort to achieve sustainable development in Indonesia.