#Japan #Tokyo #Space Seed #Gadjah Mada #Longan Research

Space Seed Holdings and Gadjah Mada University Collaboration

In August 2025, in a significant step toward agricultural innovation, Space Seed Holdings commenced discussions with Gadjah Mada University (UGM) in Indonesia regarding research in molecular biology specifically focusing on longan. Accompanied by Ananda Setiyo Ivanant, CEO of PT AWINA, the team met with Professor Budi S. Daryono and Professor Eko Agus Suyono from UGM's Faculty of Biology. This meeting marked the beginning of potential collaborative studies that could reshape longan cultivation practices in the region.

Research Focus and Objectives

The discussions centered on utilizing research findings related to longan being conducted at UGM's experimental field, alongside the feasibility of arranging cultivation land by PT AWINA. The goal is to explore joint research capabilities that would leverage UGM's newly established Integrated Genome Factory (IGF) for genome analysis, gene expression profiling, and improving cultivation methods for Indonesia’s locally developed longan variety, New Crystal.

The IGF, equipped with advanced sequencing technologies from Oxford Nanopore Technologies and PacBio, plus a high-performance computing environment, facilitates multi-omics research and is expected to be a key resource for this project. As part of their approach, the goal is to consider how findings from genomic and transcriptomic analyses could optimize cultivation practices for longan. This pilot research is believed to lay down a scientific foundation necessary for elevating the industry standards in the Yogyakarta region.

Vision for Sustainable Agriculture

Space Seed Holdings, led by CEO Kengo Suzuki, is collaborating with the president of APKM (Asosiasi Petani Kelengkeng Mandiri), Ahmad Janan, to develop a sustainable industry model centered around the New Crystal variety. This model aims to address comprehensive agricultural procedures, workforce development, and incorporate tourism, processing, and functional assessments into a unified framework.

Kengo Suzuki shared his insights:

“We envision building a scientific network that enhances ‘taste, profitability, and functionality’ simultaneously by integrating the IGF’s capabilities with UGM's experimental fields and PT AWINA's implementation expertise. We aspire to create a seamless pathway from molecular understanding of New Crystal to improved cultivation methods and functional evaluations, showcasing a practical example of a circular food-agri model between ASEAN and Japan.”

The Role of PT AWINA

PT AWINA is an Indonesian firm committed to solving global challenges related to SDGs through trustworthy initiatives that benefit society. They specialize in renewable energy—such as wind and solar solutions—as well as waste management. Their efforts encompass micro-wind and solar EPC projects, as well as biomass consulting and recycling programs for used cooking oil. Beyond these areas, PT AWINA aids in market research, business feasibility assessments, and fostering partnerships among government, academia, and businesses engaged in green initiatives.
Visit PT AWINA

About Space Seed Holdings

Space Seed Holdings stands as a deep-tech venture builder, driven by the mission to make science fiction a reality. Their initiatives include investment activities and research aimed at fostering business innovations that address societal challenges. With a keen focus on health and sustainability via their Fermentation and Longevity Fund program, they are dedicated to creating technologies required for sustaining human presence in outer space by 2040.
Learn more about Space Seed Holdings

In conclusion, Space Seed Holdings' partnership with Gadjah Mada University aims to harness cutting-edge biological science to transform agricultural practices through strategic cooperation, ensuring better economic and environmental outcomes for Indonesia's longan industry.