RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto underscored the indispensable role of the Indonesian diaspora in elevating national research standards and fostering global partnerships. He made the statement during a dialogue in Australia on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.

Engaging with 84 prominent academics from the Indonesian Academics Research Network Australia (IARNA), the Minister highlighted how these overseas experts serve as strategic catalysts for technology transfer and academic prestige.

This meeting, held as part of a broader mission to enhance Indonesia's international standing, aimed to bridge the gap between world-class institutional research and Indonesia’s 8 percent economic growth target, set partly to escape the middle-income trap.

In an official statement released in Jakarta on Thursday, February 26, 2026, the Minister emphasized that these academics serve as a bridge to international expertise.

"The Indonesian diaspora abroad are strategic agents who can accelerate technology transfer, open access to collaboration with advanced universities and industries, and strengthen Indonesia's academic reputation at the global level," Minister Brian said, as quoted by Antara.

The Minister explained that to help achieve the national economic growth of 8 percent, higher education and research must provide a tangible impact on both industry and society.

Minister Brian underscored that cross-sector collaboration is essential to meet these targets, specifically through the role of the diaspora in accelerating the transformation of science and technology.

"Currently, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology is focused on strengthening research and innovation that is directly connected to industrial needs and national development," he stated.

The minister added that the government continues to prioritize applied research and product development without neglecting fundamental research as the long-term foundation for innovation.

Meanwhile, Indonesian Ambassador to Australia, Siswo Pramono, affirmed that the increase in bilateral trade following the IA-CEPA provides a strategic momentum to expand research collaboration.

"Strengthening the Indonesia Incorporated synergy, including the involvement of the academic diaspora, is key to maximizing bilateral cooperation opportunities," he stated.

The dialogue covered various strategic focuses, ranging from the downstreaming of strategic minerals and rare earths to food security and biodiversity-based cosmetics. Discussions also delved into waste management through technological approaches and strengthening the collaboration between universities and state-owned enterprises (BUMN).

Concrete opportunities for Indonesia-Australia cooperation were also raised, such as increasing rice productivity through mechanization and developing critical minerals like nickel and lithium for electric vehicle supply chains. The session concluded with a focus on health research, biomedicine, maritime collaboration, and the advancement of drone technology. ***