Jakarta, November 5, 2024 – The Europe Today: The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) of Indonesia is enhancing its research and innovation collaboration with the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) in critical areas such as health, energy, and climate change. This strategic partnership was discussed during the 7th China-Indonesia Joint Committee on Science, Technology & Innovation Cooperation held in Beijing.
Professor Agus Haryono, Deputy for Research and Innovation Facilities at BRIN, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, particularly regarding the joint research program scheme. “China is a strategic partner for Indonesia. We have many funding programs that are beneficial for BRIN, universities, and research institutions in Indonesia,” Haryono stated in a release from his office on November 4.
During the meeting, MOST indicated its readiness to support joint research projects in several sub-fields, including renewable energy, biofuels, electric vehicles, and biotechnology. MOST proposed six collaborative projects to be completed within two years, with financial support from the Chinese government and contributions from Indonesia based on available budgets.
Haryono also mentioned that MOST plans to initiate a short-term research program for Indonesian scientists to conduct research in China, particularly focusing on energy and construction sectors. Yang Xuemei, Deputy Director General of the China Science and Technology Exchange Center, extended an invitation to young Indonesian scientists to spend a year in China to deepen their scientific research.
Additionally, BRIN and MOST support the establishment of a joint research center, which will involve Tsinghua University and the Health Policy Department of the Indonesian Ministry of Health. Haryono noted that this joint research center is expected to serve as a collaborative hub, connecting relevant institutions from both countries in the fields of health and public policy.
China also emphasized the importance of the China-ASEAN Technology Transfer Center (CATTC) in facilitating technology transfer to Indonesia. Haryono confirmed that BRIN would continue to support local start-ups and promote technology development through various platforms and scientific journals aimed at fostering social and technological progress.
The meeting, held on November 1, 2024, concluded with the signing of the Implementing Arrangement Concerning the 1st Joint Research Program agreement between MOST and BRIN, following up on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed the previous year.
