IPB University and UMT Foster Synergy in Research and Action for East Asia’s Blue Economy
The blue economy is increasingly becoming a vital component of development in Southeast Asian and East Asian countries. This trend is encouraging universities to help steer the development of the blue economy sector through research, innovation, and the strengthening of knowledge networks.
In response to these developments, IPB University and Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) are strengthening their collaboration through an in depth workshop on the blue economy. This event serves as a forum to discuss ways to enhance both research and blue economy development initiatives in the region.
IPB University was represented by Prof Luky Adrianto, along with Prof Yonvitner and a team from the International Research Institute for Maritime, Marine, and Fisheries Sciences (LRI i-MAR) and the Center for Coastal and Marine Resources Studies (PKSPL) at IPB University.
Representing UMT were the Director of the Institute of Oceanography (INOS), Prof Zainuddin bin Bachok; Prof Wan Izatul Asma Wan Talaat; UMT Vice Chancellor Prof Mohd Fadzil Modh Akhir; and UMT’s business development representative, Dr Abdul Razak. Also in attendance was the Vice Chancellor of Sultan Zainal Abidin University (UniSZA), Prof Nuraini Muchtar.
One of the key topics discussed during the workshop was the need for agreed upon blue economy performance indicators. Prof Luky Adrianto presented the Blue Economy-Indonesia Index (IBEI) model as an example derived from the Blue Economy Development Index (BEDI).
“Each country’s progress toward blue economy success can be measured through indicators. Although every country has different key blue economy sectors, these indicators can be developed and modified according to each country’s specific needs,” said Prof Luky.
In addition to discussing blue economy indicators, the event was also used to strengthen cooperation among learning centers in East Asia. Prof Yonvitner, who is also President of the PEMSEA Network Learning Center (PNLC), explained that PNLC membership provides a platform to coordinate the various types of knowledge available and needed to accelerate coastal development in East Asia.
“This network also facilitates knowledge transfer, the sharing of innovations, and technology exchange among marine and fisheries universities in East Asia. On this occasion, IPB University’s PKSPL, as the de facto host of the PNLC, officially welcomed INOS as a new member of the PNLC. INOS can now contribute to guiding blue economy development in Malaysia,” he stated.
The series of activities also included a tour of a biodiversity conservation center specifically for sea turtles on Redang Island, a marine research gallery, the INOS education and training center, and other ecotourism sites. INOS is also strengthening blue economy literacy among middle school students and educators in Terengganu.
To expand synergies, PKSPL-LRI i-MAR at IPB University is also strengthening its collaboration with Xiamen University Malaysia and Monash University-Malaysia, which have networks in China and Australia.
As a follow up, PKSPL-LRI i-MAR IPB University will prepare tactical and operational measures to support the blue economy promoted by the government. (*/Rz) (IAAS/FHD)
