Unveiling Malang: The First Encounters on Tempeh Tales and Industrial Insights at PT Amerta Indah Otsuka
Malang, Indonesia – An International Summer Course Program 2025, was hosted by the esteemed Universitas Brawijaya in Malang, offering a unique convergence of academic pursuit and cultural immersion. From June 23rd to 26th, 2025, a cohort embarked on such a journey, attending an on-site program in Malang, a vibrant city nestled in East Java, Indonesia. This collaboration provided a robust platform for exploring critical advancements at the intersection of technology and agriculture. The course was specifically designed around highly pertinent topics, delving into emerging food technologies, innovative biosystem engineering, the application of AI for precision agriculture, and the crucial role of IoT and connectivity within agricultural systems.
The program commenced with an opening ceremony that united participants and fostered cross-cultural exchange. An exhibition showcased various agricultural innovations, offering immediate insights into practical applications within the field. The first day provided a hands-on immersion into local food systems with a visit to Pabrik Oleh-oleh Bu Noer Aneka Rasa, an SME specialising in tempeh production. Participants learned about tempeh’s cultural significance and nutritional value, observed the production process, and even engaged in fermenting tempeh themselves, highlighting the blend of theoretical knowledge with culturally relevant practices.
Day two offered an immersive industrial visit to PT Amerta Indah Otsuka, a prominent Japanese-origin manufacturing facility. Participants received an introductory lecture before embarking on a factory tour, observing large-scale food and beverage production. Strict protocols were in place, emphasising confidentiality and cleanliness. This visit provided invaluable insights into the operational scale, technological integration, and stringent quality control within a major international food processing enterprise.
Cultural Escapade, Dairy Delights, Global Perspectives and Grand Finale
Day three combined cultural exploration with insights into local food production. The morning featured a refreshing cultural trip to Batu Adventure, allowing participants to relax by the river and foster camaraderie.
The afternoon shifted focus to a fascinating dairy and cheese production facility in the Malang Regency, recognised as Malang’s only mozzarella cheese producer. Participants learned about dairy processing, observed milk quality control, and visited the cow pens. A unique aspect was the significant contribution from local villagers who supply milk directly to the factory, highlighting a sustainable, community-driven approach to local food production.
The final day culminated in group presentations, where participants synthesised their observations from the site visits, offering global perspectives on the agricultural technologies and cultural nuances encountered. These presentations were followed by engaging Q&A sessions, fostering deeper discussion and critical reflection. The program concluded with a memorable closing ceremony and the ARTEFACT competition, a vibrant showcase of talent and creativity, providing a festive end to an enriching international experience.
The International Summer Course Program at Universitas Brawijaya in Malang was more than just an academic endeavour; it was a profound journey of growth and global connection. From the vibrant streets of Malang to the cutting-edge agricultural facilities, every moment offered new insights. The program successfully blended theoretical knowledge of emerging food technologies and precision agriculture with practical experiences, such as tempeh production and large-scale dairy processing, providing a tangible understanding of sustainable practices.