From November 14–16, 2024, a delegation from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), led by Associate Professor Dr. Samsur bin Mohamad, Director of the UNIMAS Agro Research Center (UARC), visited the Faculty of Agricultural Technology at the University of Jember (UNEJ), Indonesia. This visit, conducted under the International Matching Grant collaboration, was part of the joint project titled “Technology Advances in Postharvest Management of Food Grains,” co-led by Ts. Dr. Bernard Maringgal from UNIMAS and Assistant Professor Dr. Idah Andriyani from UNEJ. The visit focused on fostering research collaboration, enhancing learning opportunities, and implementing UNEJ’s Independent Learning and Campus initiative.
The visit began with an International Webinar and General Lecture at the Soerachman Building. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Samsur delivered a lecture on Postharvest Handling of Fishery Products, while Dr. Bernard presented on Non-Destructive Quality Testing for Fresh Produce. Moderated by Prof. Dr. Ir. Soni Sisbudi Harsono and opened by the Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Dr. Ir. Bambang Marhaenanto, the session highlighted the shared vision of both institutions in advancing environmentally sound agricultural practices. Students actively engaged in follow-up activities such as quizzes, recaps, and reflections, fostering interactive learning and meaningful discussions.
On the second day, the delegation toured UNEJ’s Faculty of Agricultural Technology, visiting laboratories and engaging with faculty and students. The team observed ongoing research, including a coffee bean sorting system designed by Dr. Idah’s team as part of the MoA project. A strategic meeting with Professor Dr. Yuli Witono, Director of UNEJ’s Research Institute, provided an opportunity to discuss the progress of the MoA and explore potential areas for future collaboration in agricultural technology.
The delegation also participated in an International Workshop aimed at enhancing the research capabilities of UNEJ faculty members in securing international grants. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Samsur introduced UARC’s research initiatives and the Faculty of Resource Science and Technology’s (FRST) expertise, setting the stage for joint grant applications and further collaborative projects.
The final day focused on exploring practical applications of postharvest technology through industrial visits at Nor Coffee Indonesia, the team engaged in discussions on machinery innovation for the coffee industry, observing facilities specializing in coffee roasters and processors. This was followed by a visit to the Puger Fishery Industry, where the delegation gained insights into local postharvest practices such as cold storage and shrimp paste (belacan) production.
The visit yielded several promising outcomes, including potential new research projects with UNEJ and Nor Coffee Indonesia, particularly in coffee-processing machinery, and the possibility of signing a new MoA on postharvest management in fisheries. Additionally, discussions opened opportunities for UARC and FRST to participate in the International Conference on Food, Agriculture, and Natural Resources (FANRES), led by UNEJ’s Prof. Dr. Yuli Witono.
In conclusion, the visit successfully strengthened institutional ties and laid the groundwork for impactful collaborations in research and education. Moving forward, UNIMAS will focus on formalizing proposed projects, drafting new MoAs, and ensuring active participation in FANRES 2025. This visit exemplifies UNIMAS’s commitment to advancing global research partnerships and addressing challenges in agriculture technology through innovation and collaboration.
Written and prepared by: Associate Professor Dr. Samsur bin Mohamad and Ts. Dr. Bernard Maringgal