Depok, April 7, 2026 — The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at Universitas Indonesia (FMIPA UI) is strengthening its position as a center of excellence in scientific research through an international collaboration with Bridgestone Corporation, Public University Corporation Yokohama City University, and Public University Corporation Maebashi Institute of Technology in a project on the genetic analysis of rubber plants (Hevea brasiliensis). The signing of the cooperation agreement took place on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at the FMIPA UI Administration Center in Depok.
This collaboration marks the beginning of a research project titled “Research on Elite Tree of Para Rubber Tree Hevea brasiliensis,” which focuses on implementing a marker-assisted selection approach to identify specific sequences of superior rubber trees with high and stable productivity. This initiative is important not only for the national plantation sector, but also for addressing global challenges related to the sustainability of industrial raw materials.
As one of the world’s largest producers of natural rubber, Indonesia plays a strategic role in maintaining the stability of the global supply chain. FMIPA UI serves as an academic partner that provides science-based solutions, while also strengthening Indonesia’s contribution to world-class research.
In this project, the Biology 602 Laboratory of FMIPA UI, led by Dr. Retno Lestari, M.Si., is responsible for extracting high-quality genetic material (RNA and DNA) from elite rubber trees, demonstrating its capabilities in the fields of molecular biology and genomics. The high-precision genetic data generated will be used to understand the biological functions that influence plant productivity, while also opening opportunities for biotechnological innovation in the sustainable agriculture sector.
This collaboration serves as an ideal model of partnership between academia and global industry, strengthening research capacity, expanding FMIPA UI’s international network, and enhancing the global competitiveness of Indonesia’s human resources.
Prof. Dr. Tito Latif Indra, M.Si., Dean of FMIPA UI, stated, “This collaboration marks an important milestone in strengthening the contribution of FMIPA UI academics to impactful global research. Through research in the field of sustainable natural resources, we aim to reinforce the global natural rubber production ecosystem and deliver significant innovations that support sustainable rubber plantations in Indonesia.”
Yukihisa Shimada, Director of the Kihara Institute for Biological Research, Public University Corporation Yokohama City University, added, “We will support collaboration with Indonesian government institutions and the development of research infrastructure, promote high-precision genomic analysis, and advance the selection of superior lines for the sustainable utilization of resources.”
Kensuke Nakamura, President of the Public University Corporation Maebashi Institute of Technology, stated, “Maebashi Institute of Technology will lead bioinformatics analysis and advance research that
is regionally rooted while fostering international collaboration to generate knowledge that supports a sustainable society.”
Masashi Otsuki, Executive Director of the Institute of Advanced Technology, Bridgestone Corporation, emphasized, “We are committed to promoting the sustainable use of natural rubber in line with the Bridgestone E8 Commitment, creating value for stakeholders in the global rubber industry, and preserving the environment for future generations.”
This project also provides opportunities for FMIPA UI students and researchers to be directly involved in cutting-edge research, technology transfer, and international publications, reinforcing the faculty’s role as an incubator of scientific talent ready to face future challenges.
The signing ceremony was attended by faculty leaders, researchers, and company representatives, underscoring a shared commitment to advancing impactful international research collaboration. Through this initiative, FMIPA UI further reinforces its role as an innovative and collaborative academic institution that makes a tangible contribution to science-based sustainable development.
