Universitas Sriwijaya (UNSRI) has introduced a new innovation in community development and natural resource management through the launch of the Living Labs Agrosilvofishery program in Perigi Village, Pangkalan Lampam Subdistrict, Ogan Komering Ilir (OKI) Regency. The program is led by Dr. Dessy Adriani, S.P., M.Si., and supported by a team of UNSRI lecturers and academics, including Prof. Rujito Agus Suwignyo, Dr. Erizal Sodikin, Dr. Serly Novita Sari, S.P., M.Si., Siti Ramadani Andelia, S.P., M.Si., Muhammad Andri Zuliansyah, S.P., M.Si., Dr. Fitra Gustira, S.P., M.Si., and Muhardianto Cahya, S.P., M.Si.

This initiative is carried out in collaboration with an international partner from Yonsei University, namely Prof. Sangbum Shin, a faculty member in the Department of Political Science and the Department of International Relations at Yonsei University Mirae, who also serves as the Director of the Institute for Poverty Alleviation & International Development (IPAID). Students from both UNSRI and Yonsei University are actively involved in the development of the program.

Funded by the Education Fund Management Institution (LPDP) and Directorate of Institutional Affairs, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia and managed through the EQUITY Program. This initiative applies the Living Lab model as an experimental space that fosters active collaboration among local communities, academics, students, and industry stakeholders. The concept emphasizes a collaborative learning approach to empower communities while ensuring the sustainable management of peatland ecosystems.

Within the framework of this international collaboration, Prof. Shin brings extensive global experience and insights into community development through living labs. On February 3, 2026, Prof. Sangbum Shin, together with a delegation from UNSRI, including several students, conducted a field visit to Perigi Village to observe the Agrosilvofishery activities implemented by UNSRI. During the visit, Prof. Shin observed the progress of the program, which integrates agriculture, fisheries, and forestry in peatland management. He expressed optimism that the initiative would continue and generate positive impacts on community development and the sustainability of peatlands in South Sumatra.

Prof. Shin stated, “The people of Perigi are not merely beneficiaries, but also leaders in innovation and decision-making. This international collaboration will strengthen their capacity to manage peatlands and natural resources sustainably.” The program represents a significant exchange of knowledge, where academics, students, and farmers collaborate to develop practical and sustainable solutions for rural communities.

The Living Labs Agrosilvofishery program in Perigi Village focuses on community development through the integration of agriculture, fisheries, and forestry to achieve sustainable peatland management. International collaboration with IPAID enhances knowledge exchange on sustainable peatland management, supported by strong commitment from local government authorities and agricultural extension officers, who play a crucial role in ensuring the program’s sustainability.

Support from various stakeholders, including local government and agricultural extension services, is essential to the success of the program. Nazaruddin, S.P., M.Si., Coordinator of Agricultural Extension Officers at BPP Pangkalan Lampam, stated, “This program aligns with the government’s food security policy. We fully support UNSRI’s efforts to strengthen food security through agrosilvofishery.”

Through strong collaboration among UNSRI, Yonsei University, IPAID, and other partners, the program is expected not only to bring positive change to Perigi Village but also to serve as a model that can be replicated in other regions of Indonesia and globally. As Prof. Sangbum Shin noted, “This is a concrete example of how international collaboration and knowledge exchange can generate sustainable solutions to peatland management challenges.”

The Living Labs Agrosilvofishery program in Perigi Village reflects UNSRI’s commitment, together with its international partners, to creating positive and sustainable social change. With full support from all stakeholders, the program has strong potential to deliver broader impacts on community development and natural resource management in Indonesia.