Since February 2023, when we signed our inaugural Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with UGM, we have been engaged in ongoing discussions to explore ways to further our cooperation. At that point, we faced significant challenges, as we lacked sponsors, investors, and a viable inoculum. However, everything changed in 2024. With newfound resources and support, we have shifted our focus to planning four distinct test projects across various provinces. Before proceeding, UGM’s esteemed professors and Dean expressed their desire to personally assess the impact of our inoculum on the trees in Ponjong, underscoring the importance of evidence-based results.

 

It is important to highlight that the Malacensis trees, along with a selection of Sinensis trees, were planted in 2019—less than five years ago. In natural conditions, Malacensis trees require a minimum of 20 years to reach maturity, and even then, there is no guarantee that they will produce agar. As explained by our esteemed former Director of Research and Development in Malaysia, Professor Badruddin, "We still do not fully understand why agar forms in nature, or all the specific ways Malacensis endures distress to create agar internally. We know certain methods to induce stress in the trees, and we do understand that stress is essential for agar production, but in nature, it likely involves a complex interplay of factors that ultimately lead to a tree containing agar." His insights continue to illuminate our journey.

 

Reflecting on our recent achievements, it was indeed a remarkable day that set the foundation for several subsequent meetings, paving the way for another four contracts with UGM. We are fortunate to collaborate with prestigious institutions such as UNIKL and USM in Malaysia, as well as UGM and Bangka University in Bangka Belitung. With these strong partnerships, we are confident that 2025 will be a breakthrough year for Prima—a PRIMA YEAR that heralds unprecedented growth and success!