Driving Sustainable Aquaculture and Society Development: Regal Springs Indonesia Expands Collaborative Efforts with Leading Indonesian Universities
In a strategic initiative to advance sustainable aquaculture, Regal Springs Indonesia has fortified its commitment by forging significant partnerships with premier Indonesian universities. In June 2024, Regal Springs Indonesia signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Faculty of Agriculture at The University of North Sumatra (Universitas Sumatera Utara or “USU”) and a Master Cooperation Agreement with the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences at IPB University (Institut Pertanian Bogor).
These agreements with USU and IPB University encompass a broad range of initiatives, including human resource development through educational and internship programs, research projects on Regal Springs’ unique Social License to Operate (SLO), collaborative efforts in sustainable Aquaculture practices, economic development of the Tilapia by-products sector, and studies on the impacts of climate-related events on aquaculture.
As a leading speaker at the IPB University event, Laurent Develle, Global Head of Corporate Affairs for Regal Springs Group, emphasized the importance of these partnerships. “Solidifying collaborations with leading Indonesian universities aligns with Regal Springs’ core principles of promoting sustainable aquaculture through technological innovation, economic viability, environmental integrity, and a strong social license to operate,” Develle stated. He added, “Humanizing aquaculture by prioritizing social and human concerns has been a cornerstone of our company’s philosophy for over 30 years.”
These collaborations establish a robust framework for cooperation, leveraging academic expertise to drive innovation and sustainability in the Tilapia aquaculture industry. The initiatives aim to elevate industry standards, address environmental challenges, and support community welfare.
Elena Piana, Regal Springs’ Group Sustainability Manager, highlighted the broader implications of these partnerships. “As a global member of the Blue Food Partnership, our collaborations with USU and IPB University represent crucial steps in supporting Indonesia’s emergence as a leader in the Blue Food Movement,” Piana said.
Looking ahead, Regal Springs Group plans to expand similar partnerships with leading universities and aquaculture research centers in other countries, including Honduras and Mexico. These efforts are aimed at fostering constructive and impactful dialogue between the private sector and academia, ensuring sustainable aquaculture practices for future generations.
