The Importance of Support for Young Researchers to Produce Sustainable Indonesian Food Innovations

JAKARTA - Food is the main foundation in the sustainability of a country. Therefore, food availability must be met, as well as new innovations for sustainable food.

To produce sustainable food innovations in Indonesia, the role of the younger generation is very needed, especially for those who conduct research.

In order to realize the vision of Indonesia Emas, it is necessary to have a generation of researchers who are not only academically intelligent, but also dare to explore and innovate. Especially in optimizing the potential and local knowledge to produce future food solutions.

With that, Indofood Riset Nugraha (IRN) from PT Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk (Indofood) is present. This is a research assistance program for undergraduate students to explore the potential for developing functional food products based on the local wisdom of the rich and diverse community.

This year, IRN enters its 20th year of journey, which is a manifestation of consistent commitment in supporting the generation of innovative, adaptive, quality young Indonesian researchers to bring about real impact for the community.

"This year, the implementation of the Indofood Research Nugraha Program has entered its 20th year, a tangible manifestation of our commitment to supporting the spirit of young Indonesian researchers," said Head of Corporate Communications PT Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk, Stefanus Indrayana, at the 20 Years of IRN event, in Setiabudi, Jakarta, on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.

"Coinciding with the momentum of National Awakening Day, we hope that IRN can continue to awaken the spirit of young Indonesian researchers to become innovative scientific-entrepreneurs, who are ready to contribute to society, especially in developing the potential of our local food into solutions and business opportunities that have an impact," he added.

The IPB Professor and Head of the IRN Expert Team, Prof. Dr. Ir. Purwiyatno Hariyadi, M.Sc, said that the program was very useful to help young researchers who are the hope of the nation in the future.

"IRN is not only present to support academic research, but also helps build a critical, creative, courageous and innovative mindset, and encourages students to network and always develop their capacity, so that they can bring about real impact for society," said Prof. Purwiyatno.

Meanwhile, during its two decades of implementation, IRN has received 8,300 research proposals and funded more than 1,100 student research from 200 universities and colleges in Indonesia.