Surabaya — A proud academic achievement has once again been accomplished by a lecturer from the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Universitas Airlangga (FPK UNAIR). Dr. Veryl Hasan, S.Pi., M.P. successfully secured international research funding from the United Kingdom-based conservation organization Synchronicity Earth for the third time. This accomplishment reflects his strong academic track record and consistent contribution to aquatic resource conservation research, particularly in peat swamp ecosystems. The funding will support a research project focused on peat swamp fish conservation in Bintan, emphasizing biodiversity preservation alongside community empowerment initiatives.
The research grant was obtained through the extensive academic and professional networks that Dr. Veryl Hasan has built over the years. Information regarding the funding opportunity was shared through colleagues working in similar research fields, highlighting the importance of collaboration and communication in the academic world. The project is not conducted individually, but rather through a collaborative framework involving strategic partners from both domestic and international institutions.
Several institutions participating in the research collaboration include the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom, the National University of Singapore, the Natural History Museum of Singapore, Universitas Bangka Belitung, and Universitas Maritim Raja Ali Haji. In addition, the project also involves various non-governmental organizations and local to international companies. This multidisciplinary and multinational collaboration demonstrates the strengthening of global partnerships in scientific research and environmental conservation efforts.
The research focuses on fish species inhabiting peat swamp ecosystems, which are known for their unique biodiversity and ecological significance while also being highly vulnerable to environmental pressures. Peat swamp ecosystems play an essential role in maintaining ecological balance, functioning as carbon storage areas and habitats for endemic species. Therefore, the project is not only aimed at producing scientific publications but also at generating practical impacts for local communities through solution-oriented approaches.
Expected outcomes of the research include increased public awareness regarding the importance of conservation and the development of sustainable, science-based resource management strategies. By integrating ecological research with community engagement, the project seeks to create a balanced approach between environmental protection and socio-economic development in local coastal and wetland communities.
This initiative aligns strongly with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14 (Life Below Water) through aquatic ecosystem conservation, SDG 15 (Life on Land) through peatland biodiversity protection, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through strengthened global collaboration in research and innovation. In addition, the project contributes to SDG 4 (Quality Education) by involving international academic collaboration and opening opportunities for students to participate in globally connected research activities.
In an interview, Dr. Veryl Hasan also shared an inspiring message for students and young researchers. He emphasized the importance of maintaining consistency in pursuing a specific field of expertise. According to him, focusing deeply on a specialized research area helps build credibility and trust among academics, communities, and international funding organizations. “Consistency in a specific field is essential. By focusing on a specialized area, we can build our credibility and gain trust from various stakeholders to create meaningful impacts for society,” he explained.
This achievement serves as tangible evidence of FPK UNAIR’s contribution to producing impactful research that not only excels academically but also delivers direct benefits to society and the environment. The success is expected to inspire the academic community to continue innovating, expand collaborative networks, and contribute actively to addressing global challenges through sustainable scientific approaches.
Writer: FBM
Editor: TPA
