Indonesian Student Develops Robot to Detect Underground Peat Fires

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian high school student Imran has developed a prototype robot designed to detect underground peatland fires and conduct early firefighting efforts. The innovation was presented to Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto in Jakarta on Monday, August 10, 2026.

Imran, a student of State Senior High School 2 in South Tangerang, is one of the recipients of the Garuda Scholarship and plans to continue his studies in Electrical Engineering at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST). His research journey began while he was still in junior high school and continued to develop through his studies in physics and mathematics.

The prototype, known as the Peatland Robot, is designed in a pipe-like form and equipped with sensors and a Long Range or LoRa communication system. When the system detects indications of fire, it can transmit data and activate a pump to conduct initial firefighting efforts.

Imran said he began developing the idea after learning that peatland fires can occur beneath the surface, making them difficult to detect at an early stage. “It started in junior high school, and then in high school I studied physics and mathematics to deepen my knowledge of robotics, and that is how it has developed until now,” Imran said.

In addition to the Peatland Robot, Imran has also developed an artificial intelligence-based application aimed at supporting the early detection of oral and tongue cancer. He plans to continue developing his research interests through his Electrical Engineering studies at KAIST.

Minister Brian said the Peatland Robot was a promising initial prototype that could be further developed based on technical requirements and field applications. “This is a good start, and it can later be coordinated with the relevant parties to understand the actual requirements, because the coverage radius also needs to be considered,” he said.

Brian also encouraged Imran to make the most of the Garuda Scholarship by gaining knowledge and experience while studying abroad. “It is also good to learn many things there. While the technology is very advanced, make frequent visits to the laboratories, learn as much as possible, and also learn from the people and the outstanding educational culture. I hope you complete your studies successfully,” the Minister said.

The Garuda Scholarship is designed to expand access and opportunities for Indonesian students with strong academic and research potential while supporting the country’s science and technology ecosystem. Through its Diktisaintek Berdampak policy, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology is continuing to strengthen talent development and the higher education, science, and technology ecosystem to better address societal needs and support national development.