15 August 2025
Anonymous Writer
Universitas Sumatera Utara (Indonesia), IPB University (Indonesia), and Universiti Putra Malaysia (Malaysia) successfully organized the 2025 Summer Course from July 28 to August 8, 2025, with the theme “Towards Resilience and Sustainable Tropical Livestock Systems with Precision Technologies and Global Connectivity.” The program was attended by participants from various countries through a series of Online Lectures with 18 international experts from 11 countries, an Essay Competition, and a Field Excursion. The event also received full support from Aliyah Rizq Farm Holdings PTE. LTD., which signed an MoU with USU.
The Online Lectures held on July 28–August 1, 2025, amounted to 90 learning hours (equivalent to 2 credits), featuring experts from countries such as the United States, Australia, Turkey, Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, China, Nigeria, and Indonesia. Speakers shared insights on precision livestock farming technologies, sustainable production systems, and global innovations for food security.
The event continued with the Essay Competition on August 2–3, 2025, in Bogor, where students presented their ideas before an international panel, strengthening cross-country collaboration. The highlight was the Field Excursion on August 4–8, 2025, held in Medan and Berastagi, attended by students from Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, and several other countries. The series began with a Welcoming Ceremony at the Soeratman Hall, Faculty of Agriculture, USU, followed by visits to Simalem Resort, a multicultural Cultural Night, and industrial visits to Efy Honey Farm to study beekeeping practices and apiculture-based products supporting local food security. Students also participated in field trips and community service at BRMP Ruminansia Sei Putih, gaining direct experience in livestock research and management as well as community service in the livestock sector.
At the Welcoming Ceremony, Dr. Ma’ruf (Head of the Undergraduate Program in Animal Science at USU) expressed his appreciation: “In 2022 we held our first summer course in Sumatra with a field trip to Samosir Island. This year, we are proud to bring participants to Simalem Resort and Lake Toba. Thank you very much to Aliyah Rizq Farm Holdings for the tremendous support.”
This event also marked the signing of an MoU between USU and Aliyah Rizq Farm Holdings. Aliyah Rizq Farm CEO, Dato Seri Ashraf Bakar, emphasized: “We believe in investing in young minds and global collaboration. This partnership will bring a positive impact on agriculture and food security.”
One of the most memorable moments was the Cultural Night held at Simalem Resort, Berastagi. Students from various countries showcased cultural performances, including traditional dances, music, and theatrical plays. This warm and lively atmosphere strengthened the bonds among participants and became the heart of the 2025 Summer Course. In her remarks, the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, USU, said: “Lake Toba is not only a natural wonder but also a symbol of resilience and cultural diversity. Tonight, we share our traditions as one big family. I hope this program will continue in the future, bringing us to witness cultural treasures in Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and beyond.”
The event concluded with a Closing Ceremony in Medan. Prof. Asep Gunawan (IPB University) emphasized: “We have gained not only knowledge but also strong bonds of friendship. This is one of the keys to the success of Summer Course 2025.” Similarly, Prof. Anjas Asmara Samsudin (Universiti Putra Malaysia) expressed his hope: “We sincerely thank the organizers for the warm welcome. We hope to host all of you in Malaysia next year.”
With the spirit of cross-country collaboration, the 2025 Summer Course is expected to be a concrete step in strengthening international networks, cultural exchange, and joint innovations to achieve resilient and sustainable tropical livestock systems.
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