Under the theme “Food and Energy Self-Sufficiency through Sustainable Optimization of Oil Palm Productivity on Suboptimal Lands,” the seminar brought together 144 paper presenters. SEAFDEC/IFRDMD contributed research findings on fisheries resources and their management, including the social dimensions of sustainability.
The five papers presented by SEAFDEC/IFRDMD included three on SPEECTRA research, one on gender, and one on inland fisheries management. The papers were prepared with contributions from students undertaking field placements at RIIFE and SEAFDEC/IFRDMD, including students from the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Riau, and an International Relations student from Universitas Sriwijaya.
For these students, the seminar was more than an opportunity to share research findings. Their involvement in preparing scientific papers and delivering presentations allowed them to gain practical experience in research, scientific writing, and communicating their work to an academic audience. The sessions also provided opportunities to exchange ideas, receive feedback, and explore potential interdisciplinary research collaboration.
The Best Paper award went to “Growth Patterns and Adaptation Levels of Selected Dominant Fish Species in the Aquatic Environment of the SPEECTRA Artificial Refuge Area in Patra Tani, South Sumatra.” Authored by Intan Nur’aini, Haviza Syahrosni, Subagdja, Dina Muthmainnah, and Aroef Hukmanan Rais, the paper is scheduled for publication in Jurnal Lahan Suboptimal.
Two additional awards recognized outstanding presentations. Dinda Anjelita Permata Sari and Dina Muthmainnah each received a Best Presenter award in their respective parallel sessions, acknowledging the quality of their research and their ability to communicate scientific findings effectively.
Beyond the awards, the seminar provided an important platform for SEAFDEC/IFRDMD to share its research with a wider scientific community and strengthen partnerships with universities. The participation of students also demonstrated how research collaboration can create valuable opportunities for emerging researchers to develop their skills and contribute to scientific discussions.
The knowledge exchanged and connections established during the seminar are expected to support future research collaboration and further strengthen efforts to sustainably manage inland fisheries resources.