Dr. Ngadisih, S.T.P., M.Sc., IPM., ASEAN Eng., and Dr.nat.techn. Rizki Maftukhah, S.T.P., M.Sc., lecturers from the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Faculty of Agricultural Technology (DTPB FTP) UGM, are collaborating with the Geothermal Research Center, Faculty of Engineering UGM. Since 2024, the Geothermal Research Center has partnered with Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) Lahendong, North Sulawesi, to develop the utilization of geothermal silica by-products as agricultural plant growth boosters. This initiative is part of efforts to realize the integration of a sustainable energy-water-food nexus in areas surrounding PGE’s operations.
In 2024, booster trials were conducted on tomato and rice crops. At the beginning of 2025, the nano silica booster was further tested on rice, peanuts, tomatoes, and shallots.
“Katrili Booster is something new for farmers because its working mechanism differs from that of conventional boosters, fertilizers, or pesticides they are familiar with. Therefore, knowledge and skill transfer are essential to ensure its proper and effective use. Just like medicine, if not used correctly, it may not function as intended,” explained Dr. Ngadisih.
On May 26, 2025, Dr. Ngadisih, together with Dr. Sri Rahayoe, S.T.P., M.P., ASEAN Eng. (Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Collaboration, and Alumni of FTP UGM), attended the harvest ceremony of the geothermal nano silica booster trials held in the Tomohon area. The event was also attended by the Regent and Vice Regent of Minahasa, the Operations Director of PGE, the General Manager of PGE, village heads from areas surrounding the PGE Lahendong site, Ir. Pri Utami, M.Sc., Ph.D., IPM. (head of the nano silica booster research team), and Ir. Ali Awaludin, S.T., M.Eng., Ph.D., IPU, ACPE. (Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, and Collaboration of the Faculty of Engineering UGM). This event marked an important milestone in the synergy between academia, industry, and local government to develop environmentally friendly agriculture based on research-driven innovation.
With its strategic position as an academic institution focused on innovation and sustainability, DTPB FTP UGM is committed to continuously developing research-based solutions in the agricultural sector. Farmer mentoring and performance testing of the nano silica booster are part of UGM’s efforts to support a more productive and environmentally friendly agricultural system. Moving forward, this collaboration is expected to further strengthen the integration of scientific knowledge with field practices and promote the implementation of agricultural technologies that improve farmers’ welfare and national food security.
