RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Vice Minister of Forestry, Rohmat Marzuki, emphasized that science-based research and innovation must be the main foundation in formulating precise and adaptive forestry policies in Indonesia.

According to Rohmat, Indonesia is one of the countries with the greatest biodiversity in the world. The wealth of flora in Indonesia is not only a natural heritage but also has strategic value for science, ecological resilience, food, health, culture, and the welfare of society.

"Every discovery of a new flora species reminds us that there is still much of Indonesia's biodiversity that has not been fully recognized." We bear a great responsibility to ensure that these species do not disappear before we understand their roles in the ecosystem," Rohmat stated in Jakarta, Monday, May 25, 2026.

He explained that the Ministry of Forestry continues to promote the utilization of biodiversity thru bioprospecting programs, which involve increasing the added value of flora based on scientific knowledge for various sectors, ranging from pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, to bioenergy.

Several research collaborations are currently being developed in national park areas, including the utilization of plants for cosmetic materials, the development of agricultural microbes, and research on mushrooms for cancer treatment.

In addition, the cooperation is also aimed at exploring the traditional knowledge of indigenous communities living around forest areas as part of sustainable forest management.

"Collaboration between modern science and local knowledge needs to be developed as part of sustainable forest management," he said.

Rohmat also invited all parties to strengthen three main agendas in biodiversity conservation, namely building a valid flora database, strengthening the synergy between researchers and policymakers, and expanding public education so that the community becomes more concerned about the preservation of Indonesia's nature.

"Let's make the discovery of new species not just a scientific achievement, but a call to work more diligently to preserve Indonesia's forests, protect biodiversity, and ensure that science becomes the main basis for decision-making," he conveyed.