UNDIP, Semarang (October 9, 2025) – Warmth and fellowship filled the closing night of The 13th International Fisheries Symposium (IFS) 2025, hosted by the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science of Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP) in collaboration with the ASEAN Fisheries Education Network (ASEAN-FEN) and the Indonesian Association of Oceanologists (ISOI). The Gala Dinner, held at the Muladi Dome, Multi-Purpose Hall, UNDIP Tembalang Campus, on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, marked the culmination of the two-day international symposium on fisheries and marine science themed “ASEAN Fisheries and Marine Resources for Global Sustainability.”
The IFS 2025 Gala Dinner showcased a fusion of science and culture. Delegates from Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Taiwan enjoyed an evening featuring musical performances, traditional dances, and the exchange of souvenirs as symbols of friendship among ASEAN nations.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Agus Trianto, S.T., M.Sc., Ph.D., Dean of FPIK UNDIP, expressed deep gratitude and pride for the participants’ enthusiasm and collaborative spirit. “It is truly extraordinary to host such a special symposium together with ASEAN-FEN and ISOI. Nearly 700 participants from 15 countries—including from Asia, America, and France—joined this event. Thank you for your participation and dedication. May the wonderful memories in Semarang remain in your hearts and minds as inspiration when you return to your countries,” said Prof. Agus, greeted by loud applause.
He further noted that events like this strengthen UNDIP’s position on the international stage as a university that excels not only academically but also in fostering intercultural friendship through science and culture.
Echoing this sentiment, Prof. Dr. Hadiyanto, S.T., M.Sc., Director of Reputation, Partnership, and Global Connectivity, representing the Rector of UNDIP, conveyed his appreciation to all delegates who participated in the symposium.
“Tonight, we are not merely closing a scientific forum, but celebrating the spirit of collaboration, innovation, and friendship that has flourished over the past two days. This symposium brought together over 500 participants from 13 countries and stands as one of UNDIP’s most memorable events,” he said.
Prof. Hadiyanto emphasized that the global participation in IFS 2025 serves as tangible evidence of UNDIP’s standing as a World-Class University. “Through joint research and discussions, we have deepened our understanding of marine resource sustainability. UNDIP is now recognized as a hub of innovation, collaboration, and sustainable solutions—not only for Indonesia but for the world. May the academic partnerships forged in this forum endure and bring real impact toward a sustainable blue future,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, Dr. Nani Hendiarti, M.Sc., Chair of ISOI and Deputy for Food Affordability and Security Coordination at the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime and Investment Affairs (Kemenko Marves), emphasized the crucial role of synergy between the marine and fisheries sectors in maintaining ocean sustainability.
“The ocean is our shared heritage. This forum is more than just a scientific meeting—it’s a reaffirmation of our collective mission to protect and manage the seas wisely. We carry both moral and scientific responsibilities to safeguard biodiversity, promote sustainable practices, and strengthen transnational collaboration,” said Dr. Nani.
She also commended UNDIP for successfully bringing together scientists, policymakers, and industry practitioners from various countries.
“Together, we can make our oceans healthier. Our shared spirit is one—to protect the sea as a legacy for future generations,” she concluded.
The festive evening also witnessed the presentation of the Indroyono Soesilo Award 2025, a prestigious recognition for Indonesian marine researchers. This year’s award was granted to Prof. Dr. Muhammad Reza Cordova, M.Si., and Prof. Dr. Sc. Anindya Wirasatriya, S.T., M.Si., M.Sc., Professors of FPIK UNDIP, for their outstanding contributions to marine policy research and aquatic resource protection.
Additional awards were presented to Yamada Kanta and Iris Ann Borlongan (Best Oral Presenter in Fisheries), Siti Amina and Ma’ruf Kasim (Best Oral Presenter in Aquaculture), and Shibata Natsumi and Tsucida Manami (Best Poster Presentation).
The award night also featured cross-cultural performances, including an angklung performance by Universitas Gadjah Mada, a folk dance by the University of the Philippines Visayas, and a Filipino traditional dance by Mindanao State University. This artistic collaboration symbolized international friendship rooted in shared human and scientific values.
The event concluded with the official announcement of the next host of The 14th International Fisheries Symposium (IFS) 2026, which will be the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV). The announcement was made by Dr. Tan Min Pau, Secretary of ASEAN-FEN, who symbolically handed over the IFS plaque to the UPV representative, greeted with warm applause from all delegates.
This event embodied the spirit of “Noble and Valuable UNDIP” promoting cross-border research collaboration in support of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
IFS 2025, organized in collaboration with ASEAN-FEN, reaffirmed UNDIP’s role as a strategic regional partner in strengthening scientific diplomacy in the marine field. The symposium’s research, policy, and innovation agenda align with UNDIP’s vision of Impactful Science and Technology (Diktisaintek Berdampak)—promoting applied science for the benefit of coastal communities and the global academic community.
This spirit reflects UNDIP’s philosophy as a university that excels not only in knowledge but also in dignity and meaningful contributions to life. “UNDIP for a Sustainable Blue Future.” (Public Communication/UNDIP/DHW)
