Mataram, University of Mataram — The University of Mataram (Unram) continues to demonstrate concrete steps in the development of the International Tropical Seaweed Research Center (ITSRC) and the Marine Medicine Specialist Clinic. This commitment was formalized through the signing of a Regional Grant Agreement for land allocation with the East Lombok Regency Government, held at the Regent’s Office on April 30, 2026. The agreement reflects a strategic synergy to strengthen leading research and provide specialized healthcare services for island communities.

Unram Rector, Prof. Dr. Sukardi, M.Pd., expressed his appreciation for the support of the East Lombok Regency Government. He emphasized that the construction of the seaweed laboratory will be the initial priority of ITSRC, with sustained coordination involving the central government and the Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Prof. Stella Christie, Ph.D.

“Alhamdulillah, the land grant from East Lombok Regency has been received. Construction has already begun in line with our commitment, with the seaweed laboratory as the initial priority. Coordination will continue with the central government and Deputy Minister Prof. Stella Christie,” stated Prof. Sukardi.

On this occasion, Prof. Sukardi also highlighted the imbalance in the number of medical professionals. He stressed that potential collaboration with the regional government should not only focus on facility development, but also open opportunities for cooperation in meeting the need for doctors and providing educational support for underprivileged students.

The potential collaboration is not limited to the Faculty of Medicine, but may be expanded to other study programs according to the needs of East Lombok Regency. Scholarship schemes are being considered, ranging from fully funded scholarships, partial scholarships, to special zoning for remote areas. A key requirement is that scholarship recipients must return to serve in East Lombok after completing their studies. The selection system will be adjusted to comply with existing regulations, while technical implementation will be further discussed should the collaboration be fully realized.

East Lombok Regent, Drs. H. Haerul Warisin, M.Si., stated that the land grant represents a tangible form of synergy between the regional government and the university. He reaffirmed full support for the development of facilities that will provide direct benefits to the community, particularly in coastal and island areas.

Earlier, the groundbreaking ceremony for ITSRC was held on February 12, 2026, in Ekas Buana, Jerowaru District, officiated by Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia, Prof. Stella Christie, Ph.D., Unram Rector for the 2022–2026 period, Prof. Ir. Bambang Hari Kusumo, M.Agr.St., Ph.D., and the Regent of East Lombok.

The development of ITSRC is targeted to become an international‑standard seaweed research hub through collaboration with global researchers, equipped with laboratories and other supporting research facilities. Meanwhile, the construction of the Marine Medicine Specialist Clinic will strengthen healthcare services in island regions while supporting specialist medical education, ensuring that coastal communities gain closer and higher‑quality access to medical services.

The signing of the land grant agreement is not merely a symbol of cooperation, but a tangible milestone of synergy between Unram and the East Lombok Regency Government. The establishment of the International Tropical Seaweed Research Center (ITSRC) and the Marine Medicine Specialist Clinic will serve as a vital foundation for advancing international‑level research and enhancing healthcare services in island regions. With full support from the central government, local authorities, and the academic community, this commitment is expected to deliver sustainable contributions to society.