Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences Universitas Airlangga (FPK UNAIR) established an international research collaboration with the School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia (SBS USM) to strengthen fisheries and aquatic biology studies between Indonesia and Malaysia. This collaborative initiative reflects the commitment of both institutions to advancing scientific research, expanding academic partnerships, and supporting sustainable fisheries management at the regional level. The offline research activities were conducted in Malaysia from 17–23 May 2026, while the overall research program will continue for one year with sampling activities taking place in both Malaysian and Indonesian waters.
The collaborative research involves lecturers and students from both institutions, namely students from SBS USM and FPK UNAIR. Through this international partnership, participants are expected to gain broader academic exposure, improve research competencies, and strengthen cross-cultural scientific collaboration in fisheries and marine biology. The research specifically focuses on the morphology, reproductive phenology, and histology of fish belonging to the Sciaenidae family. These studies aim to provide a deeper understanding of fish biological characteristics, including body structure development, reproductive patterns, and tissue conditions of gonads and other organs through histological approaches.
The implementation of the research activities directly in Malaysia became an important opportunity for researchers to conduct field observations, sample collection, and scientific discussions intensively. During the one-week offline program, researchers from both institutions exchanged scientific perspectives and research methodologies to support the achievement of comprehensive research outcomes. Furthermore, the continuation of the project over the next year demonstrates the long-term commitment of FPK UNAIR and SBS USM in producing collaborative scientific contributions with international impact.
In addition to strengthening international academic networks, the collaboration is also expected to generate joint scientific publications, encourage knowledge exchange, and contribute significantly to sustainable fisheries resource management in the Southeast Asian region. Through this partnership, FPK UNAIR and SBS USM reaffirm their shared commitment to supporting the advancement of science, particularly in fisheries, marine studies, and the conservation of aquatic biological resources. The collaboration also reflects the growing importance of international cooperation in addressing global fisheries and marine sustainability challenges through research-based scientific innovation.
Writer : Lailatul Lutfiyah
Editor : TPA
