Prodi Logistik Agro-Maritim and BRAIN IPB University Host Seminar on Agroindustry and Advanced Digital Technology Implementation

The Agro-Maritime Logistics Study Program (LOG) of the Graduate School (SPs) and the Blockchain, Robotics, and Artificial Intelligence Network (BRAIN) of IPB University held the BRAIN Seminar Series #9 themed “Agroindustry and Advanced Digital Technology Implementation” at Balairung Abdul Muis Nasution, Dramaga (19/11).

This seminar, part of the 50th Anniversary of SPs IPB University, aimed to share knowledge on the fundamental concepts of agroindustry and the application of advanced digital technology. Additionally, it sought to raise awareness about how the implementation of advanced digital technology can enhance the competitiveness of the agroindustry sector.

The event was attended by Prof Illah Sailah (Academic Senate of IPB University), Prof Yusli Wardiatno (Vice Dean of SPs for Academic, Student Affairs, and Alumni), and featured speakers such as Prof Titi Candra Sunarti (Vice Dean of SPs for Resources, Cooperation, and Development).

Also present were Dr Audy Joinaldy (Acting Governor of West Sumatra) and Prof Yandra Arkeman (Chief of the LOG Program), who acted as a discussant, with Verry Surya Hendrawan, ST, MM (a SPs student), serving as the moderator.

In his remarks, Prof Illah Sailah stated that in the era of the industrial revolution 4.0, agroindustry and the agro-maritime logistics system face numerous challenges as well as significant opportunities.

“As a sector that forms the backbone of the global economy, including in Indonesia, we are required to continuously adapt and leverage technological advancements, including advanced digital technology,” he said.

He elaborated, “Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain are three pillars of advanced technology that can drive the transformation of agroindustry and agro-maritime logistics systems toward being more efficient, sustainable, and inclusive.”

“Currently, IPB University is actively advancing these cutting-edge digital technologies,” he added.

Prof Titi Candra Sunarti explained that digital transformation in agriculture and agroindustry supports companies in becoming more efficient and resilient. It also improves product quality, reduces energy consumption, and facilitates optimal processes.

“Furthermore, digital transformation contributes to cost reduction and production optimization, driven by the emergence of mobile application development,” she stated.

Meanwhile, Dr Audy Joinaldy highlighted that one of the programs of the West Sumatra Provincial Government is enhancing the skills and expertise of MSME actors in utilizing information and communication technology to develop their businesses digitally.

“We are also developing the tourism industry by creating one world-class tourist destination, 19 leading tourist attractions, and three international-standard art and cultural performance centers,” he added. (HBL/Rz) (IAAS/RUM)