Jakarta, INTI - From water quality monitoring technology to smart gloves for children with hearing impairments, the Faculty of Engineering at Universitas Muhammadiyah (Unismuh) Makassar introduced a range of innovations to the Indonesian diaspora in Japan, demonstrating how academic knowledge can benefit communities beyond national borders.
The innovations were presented through an International Community Service Program held at the Chiba Islamic Cultural Center (CICC), Japan, on October 11, 2026. Under the theme “Sustainable Communities through Knowledge, Innovation, and Collaboration,” the program featured six initiatives combining technology, environmental conservation, digital literacy, and community empowerment.
The initiative involved several partners, including Kanazawa Institute of Technology (KIT), the Special Branch Leadership of Muhammadiyah in Japan (PCIM Japan), the Chiba Branch of Muhammadiyah (PRIM Chiba), and the Indonesian Students Association in Chiba (PPI Chiba).
Unismuh Makassar Rector Dr. Abd Rakhim Nanda attended the event alongside a delegation from the Faculty of Engineering led by Dean Muhammad Syafaat S. Kuba.
Syafaat explained that the international community service program was designed to connect academic knowledge with community needs. The participation of Indonesians living in Japan also created opportunities for knowledge exchange, shared learning, and collaboration.
“Through this initiative, we aim to deliver knowledge and innovations that address community needs. Collaboration with our partners in Japan provides an opportunity to learn from one another and develop sustainable community service programs,” Syafaat said.
From Water Conservation to Digital Security
The six initiatives covered a range of academic disciplines and practical technology applications.
In environmental sustainability, the engineering team introduced community-based water conservation and simple methods for monitoring water quality. Both initiatives aimed to improve public understanding of sustainable water resource management.
Urban planning was another focus, with participants introduced to the concept of a walkable city, which prioritizes pedestrian-friendly urban environments. The topic was explored through comparative studies and community collaboration.
In digital literacy, participants learned about cybersecurity, particularly how to identify and avoid digital scams and phishing attempts that use deceptive identities or communications to obtain personal information.
The team also presented a method for verifying the direction of the Qibla using the sun’s shadow, demonstrating how scientific principles can address practical needs within Muslim communities.
Inclusive technology was another key component of the program. Initiatives included technology-based self-therapy using immersive technology and smart gloves for children with hearing impairments that utilize deep learning.
These innovations highlighted the potential of digital engineering to improve accessibility and support people with disabilities.
Expanding International Collaboration
Beyond the community service activities, the Faculty of Engineering’s visit to Japan included the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with PCIM Japan and PRIM Chiba.
The agreements provide a foundation for future joint initiatives, particularly community service programs and the implementation of the Four Pillars of Higher Education within Muhammadiyah universities.
The collaboration also creates opportunities for the Indonesian diaspora to participate in academic activities and apply innovations that address local community needs.
The international program supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including quality education, clean water, industry and innovation, reduced inequalities, sustainable cities, and partnerships for the goals.
For Unismuh Makassar’s Faculty of Engineering, the initiative in Chiba was more than an opportunity to showcase technological developments. Engagement with the Indonesian diaspora and Japanese partners also marked an initial step toward building long-term cooperation and continuing community service initiatives across borders.
Conclusion
Unismuh Makassar’s international community service program in Japan highlights the role of technological innovation and academic collaboration in addressing community needs. From water conservation and cybersecurity to assistive technology for children with hearing impairments, the initiatives demonstrate how engineering can support sustainable and inclusive development. Through partnerships with Japanese institutions and the Indonesian diaspora, Unismuh aims to expand knowledge exchange and establish long-term international cooperation.
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