UNAIR and UTM Malaysia develop solar panel project

Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), through the Word University Association for Community Development (WUACD), has partnered with Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) to launch a community service initiative. This program, part of the Community Service (KKN) Equivalency Program, took place in Licin District, Banyuwangi Regency, on Tuesday, March 4, 2025.

A key focus of the initiative was training local farmers on the assembly and application of solar panels to power an automated irrigation system. Muhammad Aiman, a UTM student, highlighted that solar energy technology provides farmers with an efficient and sustainable means to maintain soil fertility while reducing costs. To date, this technology has been successfully implemented in Jelun Village and Banjar Village.

“This initiative has received highly positive feedback from the local community. Residents appreciate the technology as it helps reduce dependence on conventional electricity, which is more expensive,” Aiman noted.

In addition to promoting renewable energy, the program also included a creative skills workshop for children in Banjar Village, where they learned how to weave bracelets. Aiman explained that this activity, guided by both UNAIR and UTM students, provided an engaging and enriching experience for the children.

“The children showed great enthusiasm throughout the bracelet-making process and eagerly displayed their handmade creations to the community. Village officials and residents warmly welcomed this initiative, recognizing its direct benefits in fostering agricultural sustainability and enhancing children’s creativity,” he stated.

Aiman emphasized that the community service program has provided him with valuable hands-on experience in educating communities about self-sufficient technological solutions. He also underscored the broader impact of the collaboration between UNAIR and UTM Malaysia, which extends beyond technological advancement to skill development and creative enrichment.

“Programs like this encourage further innovation, equipping communities with practical solutions to improve various aspects of daily life,” he concluded.

UNAIR student team clinches international gold medal for IoT-based work fatigue measurement device

A team of students from Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) has once again earned international recognition. At the International Invention and Innovation Competition (I3C) 2025, the UNAIR team secured a prestigious gold medal. Organized by the Malaysia Innovation Invention Creativity Association (MIICA), this year’s competition carried the theme Empowering Minds, Transforming Futures. The UNAIR team impressed judges with STIREACT, an Internet of Things (IoT)-based device designed to measure work fatigue.

The team consists of Ibrahim Al Khawwas, Nasywa Dhiyaul Haq, and Diva Firnanda Azzahra from the Faculty of Vocational Studies; Imamul Aziz from the Faculty of Pharmacy; and Farhan Aldan Khairian from the Faculty of Science and Technology. Competing against 1,500 teams from various countries, they showcased their innovative project in an online competition held on Sunday (March 10, 2025).

IoT-integrated work fatigue measurement

In this global innovation and invention contest, the UNAIR team developed the Smart Timer Reaction (STIREACT), a standardized device for measuring work fatigue. The invention was inspired by the widespread issue of occupational fatigue, which significantly affects industries by reducing productivity and increasing the risk of workplace accidents.

Many existing work fatigue measurement tools lack IoT integration. “This gap prompted us to develop an IoT-integrated work fatigue measurement device,” Ibrahim Al Khawwas explained.

Their research involved collecting data through the IoT-powered STIREACT device, supplemented by interviews and surveys. The data was then analyzed using internationally recognized work fatigue measurement standards. Results indicated that STIREACT demonstrated a high degree of accuracy in assessing work fatigue levels.

Strategies for international competition

Al Khawwas emphasized that success in international competitions requires ensuring the uniqueness and innovation of an invention through extensive literature reviews and global patent studies. “This step is essential to verify that STIREACT is a novel innovation with distinct advantages over existing technologies,” he noted.

Furthermore, strengthening teamwork and fostering collaboration were crucial in effectively distributing tasks, with support from supervisors. Careful time management and rigorous practice were also key to structuring a comprehensive competition strategy, ensuring thorough preparation in all areas.

Overcoming challenges

Securing an international title came with significant challenges. One major obstacle was refining the device’s design and IoT technology to ensure optimal functionality and accuracy. It was also crucial to validate STIREACT’s effectiveness by comparing it with globally standardized work fatigue measurement tools.

Another challenge, according to Al Khawwas, was balancing competition preparation with academic responsibilities and extracurricular commitments, as the team comprised members from three different faculties. “Funding was also a major concern, as financial support was necessary for the device’s development and research,” he added.

Reflecting on their victory, Al Khawwas described winning an international competition as an incredible experience. He attributed their success to consistency, innovation, and dedication. “We hope this research-driven innovation will benefit many, aligning with our principle of staying humble regardless of our achievements,” he concluded.

UNAIR’s MOGGY team wins silver medal at Thailand Inventors’ Day 2025

In response to the global pursuit of sustainable energy solutions, students from Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) have made a remarkable impression with their groundbreaking innovation. The MOGGY team, creators of the Microalgae Power Plant Biomass & Oxygen Production technology, secured a silver medal at Thailand Inventors’ Day 2025. Additionally, they received two distinguished accolades: a Special Prize from the Korea Invention Promotion Association (KIPA) and a special award for Best Presentation representing Indonesia.

MOGGY is an advanced system that leverages microalgae to sustainably produce electricity and oxygen. Designed to address the growing need for green energy solutions, this technology offers a promising alternative for the renewable energy sector.

“We seek to highlight the immense potential of microalgae in fostering environmental sustainability. This innovation could serve as a crucial step toward a more eco-friendly energy transition,” stated Andini Carolina, head of the UNAIR delegation.

The MOGGY team’s journey to the competition was fraught with challenges. From the preparation phase to the final presentation, they encountered various obstacles, including technical malfunctions during the final system trial and physical exhaustion due to the rigorous competition schedule.

“Each day, we had to walk considerable distances, take the BTS, and continue our journey to BITEC. Despite these difficulties, we remained committed to ensuring our innovation received the recognition it deserved,” Carolina explained.

One of the most unforgettable moments occurred when the team assumed the competition had concluded and was preparing to depart. Unexpectedly, the organizers approached their booth. “We were absolutely stunned when they announced that we had won additional awards from Invention Malaysia and Korea. It was a moment we will always cherish,” she added.

Beyond this achievement, the innovation has opened doors for further research and development. “We aspire for this innovation to evolve and be implemented on a larger scale. With the right advancements, we can develop more efficient and sustainable green energy solutions,” said Carolina.

The success of the MOGGY UNAIR team at Thailand Inventors’ Day 2025 further reaffirms that Indonesian students are capable of competing on a global stage with impactful innovations. “Never hesitate to innovate. The breakthroughs we create today could become the solutions the world needs in the future,” Carolina concluded.

UNAIR Law Faculty alumnus listed in Fortune Indonesia 40 Under 40

Universitas Airlangga’s (UNAIR) Faculty of Law proudly celebrates the recognition of one of its esteemed graduates, Abraham Sridjaja, who has been named in the prestigious Fortune Indonesia 40 Under 40 list. As a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR-RI) Commission 1 representing the Golkar Party faction, this accolade highlights his impactful contributions to politics and public policy.

In an interview on Friday (February 7, 2025), Sridjaja conveyed his deep gratitude and honor upon receiving the distinction. He emphasized that this recognition is not solely a personal achievement but a testament to the dedication, teamwork, and support from his colleagues and various stakeholders.

“This acknowledgment motivates me to continue working toward meaningful contributions to Indonesia, particularly in the realms of public policy and national development,” he stated.

UNAIR influence on career and leadership

Sridjaja credited his academic experience at UNAIR as instrumental in shaping his leadership approach and strategic thinking in politics. He highlighted the university’s dynamic learning environment, critical discourse, and rigorous policy studies as key factors in his broad understanding of social, legal, and political affairs.

“UNAIR provided more than just education—it instilled character and cultivated invaluable networks,” he remarked. He noted that his interactions with professors, peers, and alumni expanded his perspective and reinforced his commitment to serving the nation.

Dare to dream and embrace challenges

As an influential young leader, Sridjaja shared an inspiring message with UNAIR students aspiring to leadership roles. He underscored the importance of daring to dream big and embracing challenges head-on.

“The world today demands young leaders who are innovative, adaptable, and possess unwavering integrity. Develop strong competencies, gain diverse experiences, and commit to lifelong learning. Additionally, uphold moral and ethical values in all endeavors, because true leadership is not merely about wielding power—it is about service and making a meaningful impact,” he advised.

Future goals and aspirations

Looking forward, Sridjaja remains dedicated to championing forward-thinking policies that deliver tangible benefits to society. “I want to ensure that the policies we implement produce real, positive impacts on communities,” he affirmed.

Moreover, he aims to help create an ecosystem that nurtures youth development, both through youth-focused policies and various empowerment and educational initiatives.

“I firmly believe that the most valuable investment for our nation’s future is empowering young people. With the right opportunities and access, they can become the driving force behind transformative change,” Sridjaja concluded.

UNAIR holds its first Airlangga SDGs School

Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), through its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Center, has held its first Airlangga SDGs School. The event was held on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, in the Rote Room, 4th floor of ASEEC Tower at UNAIR’s Dharmawangsa – B Campus. Thirty students from various academic levels were selected to participate after a rigorous selection process. 

Opened the event, the Vice Rector for Internationalization, Digitalization, and Information (IDI), Prof. Muhammad Miftahussurur, dr MKes SpPD-KGEH PhD FINASIM, explained that the Airlangga SDGs School is a course designed to cultivate both experts and activists who are well-versed in SDGs. 

“The SDGs School is a two-day program aimed not only at producing experts but also at nurturing activists capable of driving and influencing SDGs implementation. This effort is intended to impact not just UNAIR but the entire country,” he stated. 

Prof. Miftahussurur also highlighted that the Airlangga SDGs School is part of a larger initiative to embed SDGs awareness within the academic community. He emphasized that UNAIR has long been a leader in SDGs implementation, as evidenced by its world-ranking achievement in SDGs No Poverty. 

“UNAIR has been leading the World University Association for Community Development (WUACD), where it serves as the pioneer and coordinator for global community service initiatives. Additionally, UNAIR consistently reports its SDGs indicators through platforms like UI Green Metric and THE Impact,” he added. 

Bayu Arie Fianto PhD, Chair of UNAIR SDGs Center, also spoke at the event, emphasizing that the Airlangga SDGs School is part of a series of activities leading up to the SDGs Festival, which will culminate in October. 

“This program is a key event leading up to the October SDGs Festival, where we plan to officially recognize the participants who complete the course. We hope this initiative will be fully realized,” Fianto said. 

As the first of its kind-event organized by UNAIR’s SDGs Center, Fianto expressed his hope that the selected students would make the most of this unique opportunity to deepen their knowledge. 

“We encourage the participants to fully engage in this experience, asking questions and discussing with the instructors to gain a comprehensive understanding of SDGs. As members of Generation Z, who are digitally connected and passionate, it’s crucial that this passion is complemented by solid knowledge of SDGs,” emphasized the National President of SDGs Centers across Indonesia. 

UNAIR Faculty of Veterinary Medicine introduces silage feed technology and marketing strategies to dairy farmers

The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FKH) Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) recently conducted a community service event titled “Feed Management Improvement with Green Feed Processing Technology & Marketing Strategies for Dairy Cattle Post-FMD.” Held on Thursday, August 1, 2024, in Carangwulung Village, Wonosalam, Jombang, the program is aimed at local dairy farmers.

The event was officially opened by Prof. Dr. Sri Hidanah, the Head of FKH community service initiative. In her opening remarks, she hoped that the program would help farmers understand both food processing techniques and livestock product marketing strategies.

“Through this event, we hope all participants gain a better understanding of food processing and marketing techniques for livestock products. We will also provide further assistance with marketing,” she said.

Community service highlights

The program featured several sessions, each led by experts: Dr. Mohammad Anam Al Arif, Dr. Ira Sari Yudaniayanti, and Dr. Fatin Fadhilah Hasib. Dr. Emy Koestanti also participated, initiating a discussion on foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and other livestock health issues.

Dr. Mohammad Anam Al Arif began the presentations with an in-depth explanation of silage feed technology. The second session, led by Dr. Ira Sari Yudaniayanti, covered various causes of foot-and-mouth disease in livestock. The third session, presented by Dr. Fatin Fadhilah Hasib, focused on marketing dairy products.

Furthermore, the UNAIR team demonstrated proper silage-making techniques. Dr. Mohammad Anam Al Arif, along with a team of students, led the practical demonstration, which was observed by the attending farmers. Dr. Arif emphasized that proper silage-making practices significantly impact the quality of livestock and their products.

The community warmly welcomed the event, held at the Segunung Traditional Village Hall. Twenty-five residents and farmers attended. Widi Asmoro from the Anjasmoro Village Cooperative Unit (KUD) in Carangwulung represented the community’s and farmers’ responses.

In addition to Widi Asmoro, resident Gatot Sunarto expressed his appreciation for the FKH community service program. He found the event particularly helpful in terms of feed processing and livestock disease prevention. “This event has been very beneficial; my knowledge about cattle feed processing and disease prevention has increased. Many factors affect livestock health,” Sunarto said.

13th ICAS concluded, IIAS to continue collaboration with UNAIR

The 13th International Convention of Asia Scholars (ICAS) officially concluded on Thursday, August 1, 2024. Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), through the Airlangga Institute of Indian Ocean Crossroads (AIIOC), hosted this prestigious event, which commenced on Sunday, July 28, 2024.

13th ICAS was made possible through a robust partnership between UNAIR’s AIIOC and the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS), based in the Netherlands. Although 13th ICAS has been concluded, the collaboration between UNAIR and IIAS is set to continue.

Philippe Peycam, Director of IIAS, mentioned that the next step is to further develop AIIOC into a more significant unit. AIIOC initially started as a collaborative project between UNAIR and IIAS. “We will continue to work together to make AIIOC a successful unit, not just for the industry but also for the Indonesian government,” he stated.

Peycam noted that AIIOC has the potential to offer broader benefits to a wider audience. 13th ICAS has marked a significant milestone in AIIOC’s rapid development. “AIIOC has the potential to benefit not only UNAIR, the city of Surabaya, or East Java but also Indonesia and the entire world,” he said.

Exploring further collaboration

One of the potential areas of continued collaboration between UNAIR and IIAS is the establishment of a fellowship program. This program would provide opportunities for individuals to pursue further studies abroad.

“A fellowship will facilitate Indonesians in various activities, such as pursuing a PhD overseas and returning to their home country after the fellowship,” Peycam remarked on Thursday, August 1, 2024.

The fellowship can ease the exchange of knowledge across various disciplines. Peycam believes that AIIOC can grow into a research center as significant as IIAS, which has already become the largest Asian research center.

“Many people from around the world want to visit IIAS. Similarly, AIIOC has the opportunity to become a large interdisciplinary research center. They have successfully organized 13th ICAS, focusing on learning, discussion, and interdisciplinary research,” he explained.

Aiming reputation improvement

Peycam expressed his admiration for UNAIR’s efforts and dedication to its collaboration. UNAIR’s enthusiasm to enhance its reputation was highly praised by Peycam.

“UNAIR is always obsessed with enhancing its reputation, making various efforts including improving the quality of education. If UNAIR didn’t have this obsession, our collaboration might not have continued,” he said in an exclusive interview with UNAIR NEWS.

AIIOC Potential

Peycam is confident that within the next five to ten years, AIIOC will gain global recognition. An expanding AIIOC will facilitate the exchange of knowledge between countries.

“If people want to learn about Europe, Europeans can come to AIIOC without Indonesians needing to go to Europe. Although this requires a long process, I believe with cooperation, it is not impossible,” he emphasized.

In collaboration with Petronas, FST plants a thousand mangrove trees

The Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) has launched the International Community Service initiative titled “Mangrove for Sustainable Coastal Environment: 1000 Trees.” The event took place on Thursday, June 4, 2024, at the Mangrove Botanical Garden in Gunung Anyar, Surabaya. rnrnThis initiative is a collaborative effort involving various organizations, including Petronas, the UNAIR SDGs Center, and the Indonesia SDGs Center Network (ISCN). The FST team involved 12 inbound students from Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU), FST ambassadors as liaison officers, and representatives from Airlangga Global Engagement (AGE). rnrnThe event was attended by Dr. Fatmawati, Vice Dean III of FST; Eva Dwi Komalasari, S.P., Head of UPTD KRM; Bayu Arie Fianto, Ph.D., President of the Indonesia SDGs Center; and Taufik Harwanto, a representative from Petronas. rnrnThe FST’s Enviro Fest program has been running for two years, beginning in 2023.

This year’s activities continued the tradition of planting 1000 mangrove seedlings. rnrn“Since last year, we’ve used the same location and program, planting mangrove seedlings at the Mangrove Botanical Garden in Gunung Anyar. Last year, we collaborated with international students from Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) and different partners,” explained Dimas, the program’s coordinator. rnrnDr. Fatmawati, Vice Dean III of FST UNAIR, explained that Enviro Fest aims to preserve the resilience of the mangrove ecosystem, ensuring the environment remains protected and sustainable. rnrn“This initiative is an effort to maintain the ecosystem’s resilience, keeping it fresh and safe. We hope that the human resources involved will contribute to the sustainability of this location.

This activity is a form of commitment to maintaining the mangrove environment,” she explained. rnrnIn conclusion, Dr. Fatmawati hopes that planting a thousand trees would bring great benefits and provide valuable experiences for participants. “I hope you all enjoy this experience and gain professional experience, ensuring the tasks are carried out to their fullest potential,” she concluded.

UNAIR FIKKIA, CMU Philippines conduct On the Job Training programme

The Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Natural Sciences (FIKKIA) Banyuwangi has successfully held the “On the Job Training (OJT) at FIKKIA Universitas Airlangga.” This program is the initial result of a collaboration between the College of Veterinary Medicine, Central Mindanao University (CMU) and the Veterinary Medicine Study Program at FIKKIA. Conducted from April 22 to May 10, 2024, the program provided CMU students with the opportunity to engage in various practical activities designed to expand their knowledge and skills in the field of veterinary medicine.

CMU students involved in these activities were Bernard Vincent Diaz Calo, Kyla Gabas, Hannah Portia Luberas, Jeila Golosino, Leralyn Gonzales, and Lourdes Faye Cablay. They are students in the internship phase in Veterinary Medicine in the Philippines. The On the Job Training (OJT) activities included microbiological analysis, molecular diagnostics, animal product processing, veterinary health examinations, and parasitology examinations on wild animals. Furthermore, they studied reproductive diagnostics, artificial insemination, conservation in Baluran National Park, and a computer-based final exam (CBT).

Bernard Vincent Diaz Carlo admitted that he gained a lot of new knowledge and experience at FIKKIA. He also enjoyed the opportunity to visit several tourist attractions in Banyuwangi, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. Meanwhile, Lourdes Faye Cablay reported that on May 17, 2024, they presented a narrative report of activities during the OJT to Jose M Obedencio Jr as Dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, Central Mindanao University. “Dr. Jose was very enthusiastic to hear about our experiences. Thank you to the lecturers and students of FIKKIA. We are very grateful for this experience,” she said.

With the end of the OJT program, FIKKIA UNAIR and CMU have successfully built a strong foundation for collaboration in Veterinary Medicine. This program\’s success not only enriched the students’ knowledge and skills but also strengthened the academic collaboration between the two institutions. Dr Aditya Yudhana hoped that this collaboration could continue and develop. It can, in particular, benefit students and the veterinary world, both in Indonesia and the Philippines.

RMCP visits FKH UNAIR, RSHP to discuss potential further collaboration

The Indonesia Australia Red Meat and Cattle Partnership (RMCP) visited the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FKH) of Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) and the UNAIR Teaching Veterinary Hospital (RSHP) on Thursday, May 30, 2024. Representatives from the Australian Consulate General, Ministry of Industry and Ministry of Economic Affairs were in the meeting.

Dr. Nusdianto Triakoso said that the visit of RMCP to FKH UNAIR aimed to conduct an evaluation. The evaluation was conducted after various collaborative programs. The collaboration between RMCP and Indonesian Veterinary Faculty Association (AFKHI) included a training for professional development of frontline animal health workers and strengthening veterinary student learning materials for prevention, mitigation and management of livestock disease outbreaks in Indonesian livestock sector.

Potential for advanced cooperation

UNAIR Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FKH UNAIR), an active AFKHI member, engaged in discussions with RMCP about potential future collaborations in addition to the evaluation. “We discussed and talked about what support RMCP can provide for further cooperation. Some things that need to be emphasized are training for frontline animal health workers,” said the Deputy Director of Medical Services, Education and Research of FKH UNAIR.

FKH UNAIR has conducted various trainings for frontline animal health workers in regions including Lamongan, Tuban, Bojonegoro, Ngawi, Magetan, Ponorogo, Madiun, and Jombang, as well as the eastern part of East Java, such as Bondowoso, Situbondo, Banyuwangi, Jember, Lumajang, Probolinggo City, and Probolinggo Regency.

Training for animal health workers

FKH UNAIR is not alone in carrying out this noble mission. Several universities such as Brawijaya University and Wijaya Kusuma University Surabaya also participated.

“We train these frontline animal health workers so that they understand the latest diseases originating from animals. Moreover, these diseases have the potential to become plagues. And after a few months of training from October 2023 to April 2024 and 23 batches, at least 690 trained health workers are ready for mitigation, management and plague prevention,” he said.

Looking back at recent events, Indonesia was shocked by several animal diseases, such as FMD, LSD, and ASF plagues. These diseases caused tremendous shocks to the livestock industry in Indonesia. Triakoso hoped that the ongoing cooperation with RMCP could bring good benefits, especially for the livestock industry in Indonesia.

“Hopefully the collaboration will continue effectively. So that we can both benefit others. With this cooperation, hopefully, we can deal with diseases and prevent potential diseases that may occur,” he concluded. (*)