UIN Mataram Academic Earns Recognition in Darwin Symposium

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - At the 2026 International Symposium on Fish Nutrition and Feeding (ISFNF) in Darwin, Australia, an Indonesian lecturer caught the attention of the hundreds of researchers in attendance due to the research he presented and his courage in bringing local culture to the global academic stage.

Muhsinul Ihsan, a lecturer at the State Islamic University (UIN) in Mataram, won the Johan Schrama Prize for Best Oral Presentation at the 2026 ISFNF in Darwin.

The award goes to the participant with the best scientific presentation. This is a significant achievement because of the competition at this forum, which brings together researchers in the field of fish nutrition and feed from various countries.

Muhsinul presented his research on using magnetic fields to increase feeding activity and prevent incomplete molting in marine lobsters. This approach offers a new alternative for more sustainable lobster cultivation.

The competition at the forum was highly selective. Of the 220 abstracts submitted, only 63 studies were selected for oral presentation. The oral presentation category is one of the most prestigious because it features only the highest-quality research.

However, there was something else that made Muhsinul's presentation stand out. During his presentation, he wore traditional Lombok clothing. This choice was not merely symbolic; it was also a manifestation of his commitment to presenting Indonesian culture in an international academic setting.

Muhsinul argues that academic achievement does not require someone to abandon their cultural roots. In fact, the two can coexist and reinforce each other. "Academic achievement and cultural identity must go hand in hand. We can compete globally without abandoning our Indonesian identity," he said.

This presentation, which combined innovative research and cultural representation, captured the attention of conference participants. His presence demonstrates that Indonesia's contribution to global forums extends beyond science and technology to cultural heritage.

Muhsinul's achievements have also been recognized by the Ministry of Religious Affairs. As an awardee of the Indonesia Bangkit Scholarship (BIB), he is seen as proof that investing in education can produce competitive human resources on an international level.

Head of the Center for Financing of Religious Education and Religious Education at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Ruchman Basori, called this achievement a source of pride for Indonesia.

"This achievement shows that BIB awardee can compete and raise Indonesia's profile on the international stage," he said.

The success in Darwin marks more than just the academic achievement of an Indonesian researcher. It also exemplifies the ability of science and culture to coexist.

By conducting innovative research while maintaining a strong cultural identity, Muhsinul shows that Indonesian academics can play a significant role on the global stage by showcasing Indonesia to the world. (Misni Parjiati/EN)