InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA — Amid growing environmental challenges, three students from the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) have demonstrated that innovation can emerge from the most basic of problems: waste.
The Althara Team—Agnes Ruth Savira, Maritza Kayla Zasky Malikha, and Naveed Muhammad Falah Brahmantika—successfully transformed palm oil mill effluent (POME) into an environmentally friendly and highly applicable liquid biofertilizer. Their scientific work earned them a spot at the 2025 Festival Engineering Api Biru (FEAB) in Jakarta.
Carrying the theme “Accelerating Indonesia’s Impact,” the team focused on POME, one of the biggest sustainability challenges in the palm oil sector. Through microbiological fermentation, they processed POME into a biofertilizer that not only boosts crop productivity but also provides natural pest resistance.
One notable test was conducted on the premium Momotaro tomato variety, known for requiring high nutrition. “We wanted to prove that waste does not mark the end of the production chain. With the right technology, waste can become an opportunity—benefiting both palm oil and horticultural farmers,” said Agnes, inspired by a field visit to Mujagi Farm in Cianjur (26 November 2025).
The fermentation-based fertilizer is considered capable of reducing chemical fertilizer and pesticide dependence, offering a more environmentally friendly alternative. Economically, it opens room for cost efficiency and increases the competitiveness of Indonesian horticulture, potentially expanding premium export opportunities.
Their journey, however, was not without challenges. The preparation of their scientific manuscript coincided with final exam week. Intense communication, strategic task division, and strong teamwork helped them complete their work on time.
The project integrates multiple disciplines—biotechnology, microbiology, chemistry, agriculture, and environmental science—aligning closely with the principles of the circular economy. The innovation connects the palm oil sector with horticulture in a practical, sustainable manner.
Participating in FEAB 2025 is only the beginning. The team aims to bring their innovation to real-world application and commercialization. “The biggest lesson is to never stop when facing challenges. Challenges are where opportunities begin,” Agnes said.
The FEAB final was held on 7 July 2025, with the award ceremony on 17 July. Through their achievement, the Althara Team proves that the future of Indonesian agriculture can be built by turning waste into value. (T2)
