Rector of IPB University: Quarantine is the Frontline of the Country’s Biological Defense

The Rector of IPB University, Prof Arif Satria, emphasized that the issue of quarantine is a strategic issue that cannot be taken lightly. According to him, quarantine is the frontline in protecting biodiversity, food sovereignty, and the competitiveness of Indonesian products in the global market.

He conveyed this during the Barantin Inspiring Day event held by IPB University in collaboration with the Indonesian Quarantine Agency (Barantin) at the Faculty of Economics and Management (FEM) Auditorium, Dramaga Campus (9/27). The agenda included a public lecture, a #GoEkspor mini expo, and the signing of a memorandum of understanding between IPB University and Barantin.

“Quarantine issues are directly related to the protection of biological resources from biological threats. Many countries, such as Australia, are very strict in maintaining their biosecurity, even using sniffer dogs to ensure that no risky organisms enter their territory,” said Prof Arif.

He added that early detection is key to national biological protection. “We not only need to detect products that will be exported, but also products entering Indonesia. This will determine our future biological resilience,” he explained.

Prof Arif also encouraged the younger generation at IPB University to get directly involved in the field of quarantine, whether through research, technology, or professional work. “I hope that many students will be interested in exploring this field. Quarantine is not only important for the country, but also strategic for food security and environmental sustainability,” he said.

The Chairman of Barantin, Dr Sahat M Panggabean, emphasized the vital role of quarantine in two major aspects: maintaining the country’s biological defense and ensuring the quality of export products. “More than 400 IPB alumni are now working at Barantin, many of whom hold strategic positions. This is clear evidence of IPB’s contribution to strengthening biological security,” he said.

According to Dr Sahat, biosecurity challenges are becoming increasingly complex as global trade increases. He highlighted the threats of emerging diseases, re-emerging diseases, and the potential for biological warfare that could weaken the nation. “Quarantine is a biological defense that is as important as military defense,” he said.

The event was attended by more than 650 students, lecturers, and agribusiness actors. The #GoEkspor mini expo featured educational booths on animal quarantine, fish quarantine, plant quarantine, and quarantine technology.

Through this cooperation agreement, IPB University and Barantin are committed to strengthening education, research, and technological innovation to face global threats while accelerating agricultural and fishery exports.

“This collaboration is not just a document, but a strategic step to strengthen food sovereignty, biosecurity, and Indonesia’s competitiveness towards Indonesia Emas 2045,” concluded Prof Arif. (Fj) (IAAS/LAN)