RRI.CO.ID, Tangerang - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is strengthening Indonesia - Japan science diplomacy by presenting the 2025 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry, Professor Susumu Kitagawa, in an international public lecture. It was held at the Science and Technology Area, South Tangerang, on Wednesday, 4 February 2026.

The event reflects BRIN’s commitment to expanding global scientific cooperation and enhancing Indonesia’s research ecosystem through engagement with world-renowned scientists. Professor Kitagawa, a leading researcher from Kyoto University, is widely known for his groundbreaking work on Metal Organic Frameworks (MOF).

BRIN Head, Arif Satria, said that the presence of Prof. Kitagawa demonstrated the importance of consistency and long-term commitment in conducting scientific research. He noted that the Nobel Prize-winning research developed by Prof.

Kitagawa was the result of decades of persistent work.  Arif Satria said that Prof. Kitagawa’s research journey began more than 50 years ago. He emphasized that achieving a major scientific breakthrough such as a Nobel Prize requires a strong research ecosystem that continuously supports fundamental research.

“This research started over five decades ago. To achieve a Nobel Prize, it took persistence, consistency, and a strong research environment,” Arif  during the public lecture stated.

Furthermore, Arif explained that international research collaboration serves as a key instrument for strengthening national research capacity and promoting the exchange of scientific expertise. He added that such cooperation can accelerate the development of globally competitive research and innovation systems in Indonesia.

He also stressed that Prof. Kitagawa’s discovery highlights the strategic importance of basic research. Although its impact may not be immediate, fundamental research plays a crucial role in supporting long-term innovation, including in areas such as energy efficiency and national resilience.

Carrying the theme “The Usefulness of Useless Fundamental Curiosity Enduring Impact,” the public lecture also marked a strategic momentum to strengthen scientific cooperation between Indonesia and Japan. The visit was used to initiate the formation of the MOF Indonesia Association as a collaborative platform involving the government, universities, industry, and the private sector.