Professor Budi Setiadi Daryono, a researcher and Dean of the UGM Faculty of Biology, was honored with the 2024 Academic Leader Award in the Science category.
The award, presented by the Directorate General of Higher Education, Research, and Technology, recognizes outstanding contributions by academics and researchers. The ceremony took place on Friday (Dec. 13) at Graha Diktisaintek, Jakarta.
Professor Daryono was awarded for his research, “Genetic Characterization and Bioprospecting Potential of ‘Gama Melon Parfum’ as a Cosmetic Ingredient.” He expressed his gratitude and highlighted the importance of utilizing Indonesia’s natural resources for societal benefits.
“I am grateful and delighted by this recognition, which motivates me and my colleagues—faculty, staff, and students—to continue contributing to the nation,” he said during an interview at UGM on Wednesday (Dec. 18).
Through modern biotechnological approaches, Professor Daryono developed a unique Gama Melon Parfum cultivar by crossbreeding two parental strains, NO3 and MR5. The resulting melon is small, with a bitter taste but a distinct, strong aroma. This aroma is extracted and processed into cosmetic products, including perfumes.
“The Gama Melon Parfum has unique genetic characteristics. It contains cucurbitacins and other secondary metabolites that are highly valuable for the cosmetics industry,” explained Professor Daryono.
Indonesia’s cosmetics market is dominated by imported products, often leading to higher prices. Professor Daryono’s innovation leverages local resources, promoting affordability and sustainability and reducing dependency on imports.
Each Gama Melon Parfum plant can produce 4–10 fruits weighing between 50 and 400 grams, with a harvest period of just 55–58 days. This innovation enhances the local cosmetics industry and supports eco-friendly production.
Two products derived from Gama Melon Parfum—shampoos and soaps—have been commercialized.
The shampoo is marketed under the brand NAHLA. It was developed in collaboration with PT Gizi Indonesia and PT Nudira Sumber Daya Indonesia through the Productive Innovative Research Program (RISPRO)-LPDP. Production is carried out in hydroponic greenhouses in Pangalengan, West Java.
The research team is also investigating the anticancer and antidiabetic potential of Gama Melon Parfum’s bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, terpenoids, and saponins.
“This unique cultivar must continue to be developed,” said Professor Daryono.
The cultivation of innovative plant varieties like Gama Melon Parfum is expected to boost the welfare of local farmers while fostering national self-reliance in the cosmetics and geomedical industries.
Professor Daryono hopes his achievement inspires fellow academics and students to explore Indonesia’s biodiversity further.
“As academics, our duty is to uncover the potential of Indonesia’s natural diversity. Let this award be a turning point for us to continue creating for the nation,” he concluded.
Author: Tasya
Editor: Gusti Grehenson