Mataram, University of Mataram – University of Mataram (Unram) held a discussion on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, in the Rector’s Conference Room to follow up on a cooperation offer with the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). The main focus of the discussion was the development of the seaweed industry in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB).

Rector of Unram, Prof. Ir. Bambang Hari Kusumo, M.Agr.St., Ph.D. in his speech highlighted the potential of seaweed cultivation on the coasts of Sumbawa and Lombok. “The beaches in Sumbawa and Lombok are very suitable for seaweed cultivation, and based on the information we got, West Nusa Tenggara is among the top 5 largest seaweed producers in Indonesia. However, the farmers who used to work in this field are starting to shift to other sectors. Therefore, we believe it is necessary to have a further review of this issue so that the seaweed can be maximized,” he said.

Prof. Bambang also explained that seaweed processing products have high economic value, such as make-up products as well as fertilizers.

Prof. Amarulla Octavian as Deputy Head of BRIN also explained the cooperation model that will be carried out. “In the future, we will conduct research programs, in which we will invite lecturers and researchers at the University of Mataram and fund their research,” explained Prof. Amarulla.

Prof. Amarulla also invited the lecturers , deans, and researchers of Unram to contribute their great ideas that can be developed nationally, with guaranteed support and facilities from BRIN.