IPB University Strengthens Global Footprint in Cambodia: From Research Collaboration to International KKNT
IPB University expanded its international network in Cambodia through a series of strategic visits from April 28 to May 3, 2026. The focus was not only on academic cooperation but also on collaborative research, strengthening bilateral relations, and preparing for the International Thematic Real Work Lecture (KKNT) program.
The Vice Rector for Research, Innovation and Agromaritime Development, Prof Ernan Rustiadi, emphasized that this move is part of the effort to build a regional collaboration ecosystem.
“The main focus of this visit is the development of the agricultural sector between Indonesia and Cambodia. We are striving to build academic and research bridges that will have a direct impact on the development of both countries,” he stated.
At the government level, the IPB University delegation held courtesy meetings with several high-ranking Cambodian officials, including Dr Say Samal (Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction/MLMUPC), Neak Oknha Datuk Dr Othsman Hassan (Senior Minister in Charge of Special Mission/Islamic Affairs), and Chan Sovuth (Secretary of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries/MAFF).
These meetings discussed cooperation in the fields of agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and land management. Support also came from the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia (KBRI) in Phnom Penh, which viewed this collaboration as strategic for strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in technology transfer and the improvement of human resource quality.
On an academic level, IPB University strengthened its cooperation with the Royal University of Agriculture (RUA). Together with the Rector of RUA, Prof NGO Bunthan, an agreement was reached to initiate student and staff exchange programs.
“This collaboration is a concrete step in building an international academic ecosystem in Southeast Asia. We want to ensure a sustainable circulation of knowledge through the exchange of talent,” said Prof Ernan.
Additionally, research cooperation was developed with the Land Management and Land Administration Faculty RUA. The focus is on agrarian and spatial planning issues, which are shared challenges for both Indonesia and Cambodia amidst the pace of industrialization. The Dean of the faculty, Dr HOR Sanara, welcomed this collaboration and hoped that IPB University’s expertise could provide new perspectives for land policy in Cambodia.
Beyond discussion rooms, IPB University is also preparing for practical implementation through the International KKNT program. In the provinces of Kampong Cham and Siem Reap, the IPB University delegation directly surveyed locations and held discussions with local partners such as the Kampong Cham National Institute of Agriculture (KNIA) and Hong Eco Farm.
“The adequate laboratory facilities at KNIA will be an important asset for our students’ research collaboration in the future. We want KKNT students to not only learn about social and culture issues but also to provide science based technical solutions in the field,” said Bonjok Istiaji, one of the IPB University delegates.
This synergy is expected to strengthen food security, increase agricultural productivity, and open opportunities for sustainable collaboration within the ASEAN region. (*/Rz) (IAAS/HNF)
