Bogor, 13 May 2025 - SEAMEO BIOTROP welcomed the official visit of H.E. Daniel Blockert, the Swedish Ambassador to Indonesia, Timor Leste, ASEAN, and Papua New Guinea on 13 May 2025. The program was also attended by the Mayor of Bogor, Mr Dedie A. Rachim, as well as the Vice Rector for Global Connectivity, Cooperation, and Alumni of IPB University, Prof. Iskandar Zulkarnaen.

Ambassador Blockert expressed his interest in the essential oil research program developed by SEAMEO BIOTROP "We are very interested in the essential oil industry, as well as other potentials such as biotechnology and hydroponic agriculture."  He also said "We have also directly seen mushroom-based food products and other innovations that have great potential for further collaboration”. He mentioned that several universities in Sweden are ready to establish partnerships with educational and research institutions in Bogor. 

The Mayor of Bogor, Dedie A. Rachim, emphasized that this visit reflects a mutual interest in advancing scientific cooperation, sustainable development, and innovation in the utilization of biological resources. "The city of Bogor, historically known as a botanical center since the Dutch colonial era with the Bogor Botanical Gardens established in 1817, continues to strive to strengthen its role as a center of knowledge, science, and environmental management," he stated.

He added that SEAMEO BIOTROP has produced various plant-based innovations from all over Indonesia, and hopes that collaboration with Sweden can bridge research results to the industrial sector, for the sake of local economic growth. "We believe that partnerships like this can produce impactful innovations that benefit both of our countries," he concluded. 

Deputy Director for Administration of SEAMEO BIOTROP, Dr. Elis Rosdiawati, views this visit as a form of appreciation for SEAMEO BIOTROP's role as a regional center in biodiversity conservation and tropical ecosystem restoration. "We have various facilities to support the Teaching Factory, in the distillation of essential oils, as well as the capacity to guide technology transfer from upstream to downstream — from cultivation to end products like soap and perfume," she explained. 

Dr. Elis added that the initial form of cooperation being prepared includes expert exchanges and collaboration in regional forums. "We are optimistic that the collaboration with Sweden, through the support of the Embassy and the Bogor City Government, will expand the impact of our research not only at the national level but also in Southeast Asia," she concluded.

This initiative as a concrete step in strengthening the role of educational and research institutions as drivers of sustainable development and a knowledge-based economy. This collaboration also serves as a tangible manifestation of the synergy between education, research, industry, and international diplomacy. (hcn, wk)