Mataram, University of Mataram – UPA Integrated Laboratory of the University of Mataram (Unram) in collaboration with the South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences (SCSFRI, CAFS) held an international workshop on Tuesday, December 3, 2024 in the Senate Conference Room, Unram Rectorate.

The international workshop entitled “Future-Proofing Aquaculture: Biofloc Systems, Advanced Diets, and Smart Solutions for Shrimp and Seaweed Cultivation”.

The workshop featured experts from SCSFRI, CAFS who shared insights on aquaculture innovation. The main speakers consist of Prof. Zhang Jiasong who presented material on biofloc technology in shrimp farming; Prof. Wang Jun with material related to aquatic animal feed ingredients along with feed processing and formulation; Dr. Yen-Zhen Tan from Xiamen University who presented material on cooperation in the seaweed sector and cultivation technology between China and Southeast Asian countries; and Prof. Dr. Ir. Muhamad Junaidi, M.Si. from Unram explained the practice of integrated mariculture in Ekas Bay, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB).

The signing of a memorandum of understanding between Unram and SCSFRI, CAFS was also included in this workshop. This cooperation marks the beginning of a strategic relationship in the development of research, innovation and community empowerment in the aquaculture sector.

In his speech, the Rector of Unram, Prof. Ir. Bambang Hari Kusumo, M.Agr.St., Ph.D., emphasized the importance of Unram’s contribution to the national blue economy agenda and sustainable aquaculture transformation.

“We want the University of Mataram to be an important part in supporting the Blue Economy Roadmap that has been released by the Indonesian Government. With the potential possessed by NTB, especially in the marine and fisheries sector, we believe this collaboration will contribute greatly, not only to the development of science but also to the improvement of the welfare of coastal communities,” said the Rector.

The Rector also added, “We really appreciate the visit and participation of honorable guests from SCSFRI, CAFS, and other partner institutions. We hope this activity will not only be an academic discussion, but also create real innovations that can be implemented to create a more resilient and sustainable aquaculture.”

In addition, Prof. Chen Jinfa (Secretary of The Leading Party Group, Vice President/Professor of CAFS) also said that this collaboration is a strategic step to face global aquaculture challenges.

“The collaboration between SCSFRI, CAFS, and the University of Mataram opens up great opportunities to share technology and innovation. We believe that by working together, we can find smart solutions that not only increase productivity but also ensure the sustainability of the fisheries sector for future generations,” he said.

The topics discussed were relevant to global challenges such as biofloc systems for shrimp farming, addressing cutting-edge techniques in increasing shrimp production with higher efficiency and minimal environmental impact. Further, advanced feed for aquaculture, which is a renewed approach in the development of optimal nutrition for shrimp and seaweed to increase aquaculture yields. In addition, smart solutions for seaweed farming explored strategies for utilizing smart technologies in the management and optimization of seaweed farming.

Participants were also invited to discuss cross-country collaboration in research and empowerment of coastal communities. It is hoped that this workshop can produce innovations that can be implemented to increase the productivity of the fisheries sector in NTB as well as to support sustainable development targets.