Press Release

Bandung, 24 November 2024 — The Korea-Indonesia Marine Technology Cooperation Research Center (MTCRC) strengthens its collaboration with Universitas Padjadjaran (UNPAD) in the development of marine science. This collaboration was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at the UNPAD campus, Dipati Ukur, Bandung, coinciding with the first wave graduation ceremony of the 2024/2025 academic year. 

The MoU was signed by UNPAD Rector, Prof. Arief Sjamsulaksan Kartasasmita, along with MTCRC Director, Dr. PARK Hansan, and Ivonne M. Radjawane, Ph.D., and was attended by Prof. Dr. R. Widya Setiabudi Sumadinata, Vice-Rector for Resources and Governance, Prof. Dr. Sc.agr. Yudi Nurul Ihsan, Dean of the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, and several faculty representatives.

In his speech, Prof. Arief welcomed this collaboration as an opportunity to enhance research capabilities. "This MoU will strengthen our initiatives in developing marine science, particularly in the areas of remote sensing, marine ecosystem management, and blue carbon mapping. The collaboration with MTCRC also serves as a concrete step to enrich the knowledge of our students and researchers, while opening the door to broader collaborations," said Prof. Arief.

Dr. PARK Hansan, Director of Korea MTCRC, stated that UNPAD, as a leading university in West Java, plays a significant role in exploring marine opportunities, where this sector is crucial for ensuring food security and driving economic development. The Indonesian government, through the establishment of the Coordinating Ministry for Food Affairs, has reaffirmed its commitment to integrating marine resources into the national food supply strategy. “The partnership with MTCRC, through collaborative research and capacity building, aims to maximize the potential of marine assets to support sustainable marine management and food stability in Indonesia,” said Dr. Park.

This collaboration covers marine science, aquaculture, oceanography, conservation, disaster management, estuarine ecosystems, and GIS technology, to contribute to the advancement of marine science and technology. MTCRC Indonesian Director, Ivonne M. Radjawane, Ph.D., expressed sincere gratitude to UNPAD for their enthusiasm and dedication to the partnership. "UNPAD's vision and expertise will strengthen our collaboration, making this partnership more impactful and sustainable in advancing marine science and technology," said Ivonne. Safri Burhanuddin, Chairman of the MTCRC Advisory Board, added that by combining resources and expertise, this collaboration is expected to have a positive impact on Indonesia, Korea, and the world.