First Held in Indonesia, International Symposium on Edible Alliums Hosted by IPB University
IPB University hosted the 9th International Symposium on Edible Alliums, which was held for the first time in Indonesia. This international symposium took place on (9/16-19) and attracted more than 150 participants from 19 countries.
The event was organized in collaboration with the International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS) and the Center for Tropical Horticulture Studies (PKHT) at IPB University.
The symposium was attended by participants from Asia, Europe, Africa, Oceania, and America, demonstrating the importance of allium crops in addressing global challenges, ranging from food security, climate change, pest attacks, to the need for sustainable innovation.
During the opening ceremony at the IPB International Convention Center (IICC) in Bogor (9/16), IPB University Vice Rector for Research, Innovation, and Agromaritime Development, Prof Ernan Rustiadi, expressed his pride in hosting this prestigious scientific forum.
“We are honored to host this international meeting at IPB University. This symposium is not just an ordinary scientific meeting, but part of a long tradition that has been ongoing since 1994 in Mendoza, Argentina, and continues in various countries,” he said.
Prof Ernan emphasized that Bogor is the perfect location for this scientific forum because it is known as the center of agricultural and biological research in Indonesia.
Meanwhile, Chief of PKHT IPB University, Prof Awang Maharijaya, emphasized the importance of shallots and garlic for Indonesia, not only as agricultural commodities, but also as part of the culture, cuisine, and family economy.
“When there are problems with onion production, the government is immediately concerned because of the widespread impact. Therefore, we hope this symposium will provide an opportunity for Indonesian researchers to learn and collaborate with world experts,” he explained.
The symposium, themed “Sustainable Alliums for a Bio-Based Future,” featured 13 invited speakers who delivered plenary lectures and keynote lectures, as well as 35 oral presentations and 18 research posters. Topics covered included genetic breeding, plant health, production systems, post-harvest, socio-economics, and climate-smart agriculture.
Participants were also scheduled to take a field trip to the Vegetable Research Center in Lembang, Bandung, and the PT East West Indonesia Onion House on the third day (9/18).
In addition to being a forum for sharing knowledge, the symposium also served as a moment of tribute to the late Dr Sjaak Van Heusden, an expert in genetics and onion breeding whose contributions laid the foundation for global onion research.
Prof Awang concluded by emphasizing, “This symposium is more than just a scientific gathering. It is a platform for collaboration, networking, and the exchange of innovative ideas for the future of allium research.”
Not only focusing on research aspects, this symposium also opens up discussions related to food policy, supply chains, and the empowerment of small farmers. This forum is expected to be a gateway for young Indonesian researchers to actively contribute on the global stage and expand their network of cross-border research collaborations. (Fj)(IAAS/HRD)
