A research team from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has introduced Gamahumat, an innovative soil conditioner designed for agricultural land experiencing declining soil fertility. Developed from low-calorie coal processed into active humic compounds, Gamahumat aims to restore soil functions, enabling it to optimally support plant growth. This research reflects UGM’s commitment to delivering science-based solutions for agricultural challenges.
The development of Gamahumat is led by Professor Ferian Anggara from the UGM Faculty of Engineering (FT UGM), together with a multidisciplinary research team. The humic compounds produced function to improve the physical and chemical properties of soil, making it more stable and productive.
In an interview last October, Professor Anggara explained that this approach views soil as a living system that must be restored before cultivation begins.
“We developed Gamahumat as a soil conditioner that works by restoring the soil system itself,” he stated.
Field trials of Gamahumat have been conducted on various types of marginal land. Sandy soils, acidic land, and post-mining areas were among the testing sites. The results demonstrated improvements in soil structure that positively affected plant growth.
“Land that was previously difficult to cultivate has begun to show better responses,” the professor said.
Professor Anggara further explained that Gamahumat use improves fertilizer efficiency. With more stable soil conditions, plants can absorb nutrients more effectively. This helps farmers reduce long-term dependence on chemical inputs.
“When the soil improves, plants can function more effectively,” he noted.
In the context of food security, Gamahumat is considered highly relevant for agricultural development in extreme land. Many regions in Indonesia face soil quality limitations that have long hindered productivity. He believes that humate-based soil conditioners offer opportunities to utilize such land sustainably.
“Extreme land should be restored so it can once again function for food production,” he said.
Gamahumat has also been developed through collaboration with industry partners to enable wider-scale application. This collaboration accelerates the downstreaming of research from the laboratory to real-world implementation. One key area of application is land reclamation and rehabilitation programs.
“Industry collaboration makes campus innovations more accessible to users,” he explained.
The scientific approach behind Gamahumat integrates materials research, engineering, and soil science. This synergy ensures that the resulting product aligns with land characteristics and crop requirements. UGM positions this innovation within its broader sustainable agriculture agenda.
“An interdisciplinary approach is essential to ensure accurate and effective application,” Professor Anggara emphasized.
Looking ahead, UGM continues to promote the development of Gamahumat to support national agriculture. This innovation exemplifies how university research can address real societal challenges. Through soil restoration, agricultural productivity is expected to grow more steadily.
“The ultimate goal is restored soil and resilient agriculture,” Professor Anggara concluded.
Author: Triya Andriyani
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Photographer: Donnie Trisfian