Selangor, Malaysia – Dr. Nesti F. Sianipar, S.P., M.Si, Head of Food Biotechnology Research Center, Bina Nusantara University, and Anderes Gui, Ph.D visited the Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia. Prof. Ts. Dr. Hidayah Arifin, Timbalan Dekan (Penyelidikan & Pengajian Siswazah) was welcome to tour the Faculty and laboratory facilities to look for joint research opportunities. The Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia aims to study fields of Animal Cell Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, Environmental Biotechnology, Enzyme, and Food Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering and Molecular Biology, Industrial Biotechnology, Microbial Biotechnology, Microbiology, Nanobiotechnology, Plant Biotechnology, and Structural Biology.

The benchmarking visit was continued with a visit to the biomass technology laboratory of the Environmental Biotechnology Research Group, an organization that conducts research on biomass utilization and value-added green biotech products. During the tour, the team observed innovative processes for converting organic waste into renewable energy sources. Following the visit to the lab, the meeting continued with a presentation and discussion of the Food Biotechnology Research Center’s roadmap.

FBRC’s team offering matching grant research from PIB Binus and UPM to investigate the physicochemical characteristics and molecular structure between Malaysian and Indonesian bananas. This collaboration could lead to significant advancements in biotechnology and biomolecular sciences by combining expertise and resources from both institutions. Joint research efforts may result in innovative solutions to global challenges such as food security, environmental sustainability, and health. Additionally, the partnership could provide opportunities for student and faculty exchanges, enhancing educational experiences and fostering international cooperation. (04/10/24).