Banda Aceh, 28/07/2023: The Research Center for Marine Sciences and Fisheries at Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK) has achieved a significant milestone by securing funding from the prestigious Matching Fund – Kedaireka 2023 batch 3. This highly competitive scheme is generously sponsored by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia.

The research project, spearheaded by the esteemed Haekal A. Haridhi, Ph.D., and his dedicated team, revolves around the exploration of the Marine Products Research Cluster, with valuable contributions from Dr. Vicky Prajaputra within the same team. In recent years, there has been a growing global trend towards sustainable practices and circular economies, particularly in the marine products industry. In response to this demand, the team’s focus on utilizing the excess and waste produced by the tuna industry aligns perfectly with these contemporary trends.

Through an inspiring collaboration with PT. Yakin Pasifik Tuna, the research team has successfully innovated marine collagen, a breakthrough solution in high demand by the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries in Indonesia. With the rising concern over climate change and environmental impact, the demand for sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients has never been higher. This innovative marine collagen not only addresses this demand but also serves as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional sources of collagen, which are often derived from animal by-products.

By reducing the country’s reliance on raw materials imported from foreign nations, this project contributes to Indonesia’s journey towards self-sufficiency and greater economic resilience. The enhanced value of the tuna industry’s waste through the production of marine collagen not only benefits the cosmetic and pharmaceutical sectors but also promotes a circular economy by minimizing waste and maximizing resource efficiency.

The application of the collagen produced in this project extends beyond its role as an essential ingredient in anti-aging cosmetics. Research suggests that marine collagen possesses unique properties, making it a valuable component in wound healing, tissue regeneration, and other medical applications. This diversification of collagen usage further broadens its impact on Indonesia’s healthcare and biotechnology industries, propelling the nation towards the forefront of cutting-edge research and development.

Complementing the research endeavors, the project extends its impact by offering coveted internship opportunities through the esteemed Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka Program (MBKM Program) to select students. This initiative aims to empower and nurture young talents, fostering a culture of learning and innovation within the academic community. By investing in the next generation of researchers and professionals, the project contributes to the sustainability and continuity of advancements in marine sciences and related fields.

With this remarkable feat, the Research Center for Marine Sciences and Fisheries at Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK) paves the way for transformative advancements in the marine products industry, enriching Indonesia’s standing in the global research landscape and positioning the nation as a leader in sustainable marine innovations.