Prof. Dr. Eng. Yunus Daud, Dipl. Geotherm. Tech., M.Sc., Professor of Geothermal Science at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Indonesia (FMIPA UI), received Lifetime Achievement Award at the Indonesia International Geothermal Convention and Exhibition (IIGCE) 2025. The award was presented in recognition of his contributions for more than three decades to the development of geothermal energy in Indonesia and worldwide.

The award was presented directly by the Chairman of the IIGCE 2025 Committee, Ismoyo Argo, at the event held at the Jakarta International Convention Center on Wednesday (September 17, 2025). Ismoyo described Prof. Yunus as “a great inspiration for the development of renewable energy in Indonesia.”

“This award is not the end of the journey, but a new motivation to continue nurturing the younger generation and advancing geothermal research in Indonesia. We are deeply grateful for this honor, and God willing, it will serve as an encouragement to keep contributing to UI and the nation,” said Prof. Yunus in an interview with FMIPA UI Public Relations.

Three Decades of Dedication to Geothermal

Prof. Yunus is widely recognized as a key figure in geothermal energy research and development in Indonesia. He has been involved in more than 50 geothermal exploration projects, with discovered energy capacity reaching around 3,000 megawatts (MW). Beyond academia, his contributions also extend to strategic roles in the energy industry and policy sectors.

Throughout his long journey, Prof. Yunus has not only focused on the quantity of projects but also on the quality of the scientific approaches employed. He is known for his persistence in promoting the use of data-driven methods and the latest technologies in exploration to improve efficiency and accuracy in the field.

“Together with the team, we also succeeded in introducing and developing several technological approaches advanced reservoir imaging in Indonesia, including joint interpretation of geoscience data, which helps improve exploration accuracy and reduce drilling risks,” added Prof. Yunus, highlighting the importance of innovation in addressing the complex challenges of geothermal exploration.

Building the Academic and Research Foundation for Geothermal

One of Prof. Yunus’s significant achievements is the establishment of the UI Geothermal Research Center, which has now become one of the leading centers in Southeast Asia. Through this center, FMIPA UI plays an active role in producing experts, developing exploration technologies, and strengthening research networks at both national and international levels.

In the past 10 years, Prof. Yunus has witnessed significant growth in geothermal research at Universitas Indonesia. What began as a small group with limited facilities has now developed into a more established research center, with extensive international collaboration networks and better access to data and technology. This transformation has accelerated research progress and strengthened UI’s position as a driving force in the development of national geothermal energy.

“For me, this development shows that with long-term commitment and support from various parties, the university can become an important driver for the advancement of geothermal science and technology in Indonesia,” he said.

Not Just a Scientist, but an Architect of Indonesia’s Energy Future

The Dean of FMIPA UI, Prof. Dede Djuhana, Ph.D., also expressed his appreciation for the remarkable achievements of Prof. Yunus. He emphasized that this success is not only a source of pride for FMIPA UI but also an important milestone highlighting the role of the academic community in shaping the future of Indonesia’s energy.

“Prof. Yunus is not only an inspiring scientist for FMIPA UI but also a key figure in strengthening human resource capacity and geothermal research in Indonesia. He can be regarded as an architect of Indonesia’s energy future for his contributions in designing the foundation of the national energy transition based on research and innovation,” said Prof. Dede.

Furthermore, Prof. Dede stated that the award received by Prof. Yunus reflects FMIPA UI’s tangible contribution in supporting the national strategic agenda.

“We are proud of this award, which also reflects FMIPA UI’s concrete contribution in promoting national energy independence,” he said.

Collaboration and Innovation Amid Challenges

Throughout his journey, Prof. Yunus has faced various challenges—from limited infrastructure and funding to the scarcity of exploration data. However, these challenges have instead encouraged the emergence of cross-sector collaborations.

“Research will have no impact without industry support, and industry will not advance without cutting-edge research. Collaboration between academics, the government, and businesses is the key,” he emphasized.

Indonesia, the World’s Geothermal Giant

Indonesia is currently ranked second in the world in installed geothermal capacity, with a resource potential of around 23 GW—approximately 40 percent of the total global potential. However, Prof. Yunus emphasizes that non-technical challenges such as regulations, permits, and financing remain significant obstacles.

“Indonesia is a rising giant. We must not be content with merely having the largest reserves, but must become a leader in the sustainable utilization of geothermal energy,” he said.

150 Publications, 8 Patents, and International Contributions

Throughout his career, Prof. Yunus has authored over 150 scientific publications and holds eight patents in geothermal exploration technology. He is also active in various international forums such as the World Geothermal Congress, the Indonesia–Netherlands GEOCAP project, and regional cooperation within the IMT-GT (Indonesia–Malaysia–Thailand Growth Triangle).

Geothermal as a Mission for Civilization: A Message to the Younger Generation

Concluding the interview session, Prof. Yunus expressed his great hope that Indonesia’s younger generation will see geothermal energy as part of the effort to build civilization.

“Do not view geothermal merely as a technical field, but as a mission for civilization. Build Indonesia’s energy future to be clean, sustainable, and sovereign. You can become global pioneers,” he concluded.

About IIGCE

The Indonesia International Geothermal Convention and Exhibition (IIGCE) is the largest annual conference and exhibition in the geothermal energy sector in Indonesia, organized by the Indonesia Geothermal Association (INAGA). The event brings together various stakeholders—government, industry players, academics, and global partners—to promote the development of clean and sustainable energy.