Mataram, University of Mataram – University of Mataram (Unram) and National University of Singapore (NUS) further strengthen academic collaboration in the field of marine ecology and conservation. In a recent meeting held in the Rector’s Living Room on March 18, 2024, Unram Rector Prof. Ir. Bambang Hari Kusumo, M.Agr.St., Ph.D., warmly welcomed Associate Professor Daniel PS Goh from NUS.

This collaboration between Unram and NUS has resulted in several excellent academic programs, such as Global Experience Courses (GEx) and Research Experience (REx) in 2024 and 2025. These programs bringing together students from both universities to share knowledge, conduct field research, and strengthen cultural exchange.

Global Experience in Coastal Ecosystem Studies

In July 2024, 14 NUS and 9 Unram students participated in GEx, which focused on exploring the ecology and biodiversity of mangrove ecosystems. Then in REx December 2024 – January 2025, 10 NUS students and 7 Unram students explored the relationship between mangrove ecosystems and coral reefs. Overall, the program is accompanied by 4 professors from NUS and 18 lecturers from Unram, ensuring a comprehensive and quality learning experience.

Interdisciplinary Learning and Sustainable Conservation

The program combines fieldwork, laboratory sessions, expert lectures and data analysis to provide in-depth insight into the structure, function and management of coastal ecosystems. In addition, the program also emphasizes the importance of conservation, sustainable management, and innovative approaches in maintaining marine ecosystems.

In an exclusive interview with the Unram Public Relations Team, Associate Professor Daniel PS Goh expressed his appreciation for Unram.

“We came to thank Unram for helping our students with experiential learning in Lombok. The natural environment here is very rich compared to Singapore’s more urbanized environment. We are happy that our students can learn first-hand about marine ecosystems, agriculture and conservation in Lombok, this is a very valuable experience for them.” explained Prof. Daniel.

Future Collaboration Plans

The GEx 2025 program, scheduled for May 2025 and planned to involve 25 students, will continue to expand the scope of exploration of coastal ecosystems, marine ecology, Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), and protection of endangered marine species.

Prof. Daniel explained that there are several locations in Southeast Asia, including Lombok, Chiang Mai, Manila, and Bali, and emphasized that Lombok remains the main destination due to the high student interest in conservation studies in Lombok.

“We hope this collaboration will continue to grow. One of the initiatives we want to develop together is the Impact Experience Program, a community-based project to improve the welfare of coastal communities while preserving the environment that we have run in northern part of Bali, such as coral reef rehabilitation and empowering coastal communities in making mangrove-based products such as mangrove jam and mangrove coffee. We hope to implement similar programs in Lombok.”

The cooperation between Unram and NUS is clear evidence of how international collaboration can enrich education while supporting environmental conservation efforts. With the spirit of sustainability and innovation, these two institutions continue to be committed to producing generations who care about coastal ecosystems and the global environment.