Jakarta, INTI - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), in partnership with the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), is strengthening Indonesia-Korea research and innovation cooperation through the development of Smart Greenhouse designed to address agricultural challenges in tropical regions.
This collaboration was discussed during the BRIN-KIST ODA International Seminar titled "International Joint Cooperation and Future Partnership: Strengthening Indonesia-Korea Collaboration in Smart Greenhouse Technology, Research, and Innovation," held at the B.J. Habibie Science and Technology Area in Serpong on Thursday, August 13.
Nugroho Adi Sasongko, Head of BRIN’s Research Center for Sustainable Industrial and Manufacturing System (PRSIMB), stated that the collaboration will focus on the construction of Smart Greenhouse facilities. The program also aims to strengthen human resource capacity, foster knowledge transfer, and develop technologies tailored to Indonesia's specific characteristics and needs.
According to Nugroho, the inauguration of the BRIN-KIST Smart Greenhouse in Cibinong serves as concrete evidence of the partnership between the two nations. Aside from developing the facility, BRIN and KIST plan to build knowledge, data, experience, and research networks that support technological development.
Combining Both Nations’ Expertise
He said that Smart Greenhouse development requires combining Korea's expertise in Controlled Environment Agriculture with Indonesia's knowledge and experience regarding tropical climate conditions. This synergy is expected to yield technology that is not only advanced but also suited to the environmental conditions and needs of Indonesia's agricultural sector.
Cuk Supriyadi Ali Nandar, Head of BRIN’s Research Organization of Energy and Manufacturing (OREM), explained that the Smart Greenhouse in Cibinong is equipped with various modern technologies, such as environmental sensors, the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), automated fertigation, environmental control systems, and data-driven crop management.
According to Cuk, integrating these technologies can address future agricultural challenges and enhance productivity. “This technology has proven vital in addressing future agricultural challenges, particularly regarding productivity, resource efficiency, quality, and sustainability,” said Cuk.
However, Cuk emphasized that the challenge of this collaboration goes beyond merely transferring technology from Korea to Indonesia. The technology requires adaptation and localization to operate optimally in tropical climate conditions while meeting national needs.
Joint R&D Between Indonesia and Korea
The Smart Greenhouse facility is expected to serve as a collaborative hub for Indonesian and Korean researchers to conduct joint research, develop technology, enhance human resource capacity, and unlock opportunities for new projects that benefit Indonesia’s agricultural sector.
Kim Joosun, Director General of KIST Gangneung, stated that the Korean Smart Greenhouse has evolved into a living laboratory supporting joint research between Indonesia and Korea. The facility enables researchers from both nations to collect data, conduct direct crop evaluations, and develop smart farming technologies tailored to Indonesia’s tropical environment.
Kim noted that BRIN possesses strengths in tropical agricultural research, an extensive research network, and a deep understanding of Indonesia’s agricultural needs and priorities. Meanwhile, KIST brings expertise in smart farming system development, high-efficiency cultivation, and applied research.
“By combining these strengths, we have a significant opportunity to generate solutions that are not only technologically advanced but also relevant to local needs and scalable for broader application,” said Kim.
Conclusion
BRIN and the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) are strengthening their research and innovation collaboration through the development of a Smart Greenhouse designed to address agricultural challenges in Indonesia's tropical region. This partnership encompasses not only facility construction but also human resource capacity building, knowledge transfer, and the development of technology tailored to Indonesia's specific needs.
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