Discussion on Public Participation In Use of GEPS Concluded in Indonesia

A discussion on public participation in the use of genetically engineered products (GEPs) was conducted on May 25, 2010 in Jakarta, Indonesia. The event was organized by the Indonesian Biosafety Clearing House, Indonesian Biotechnology Information Centre (IndoBIC), and CropLife Indonesia. It aimed to make the public and stakeholders aware about public participation in the utilization of GEPs; assess the submission process of usage application and utilization of GEPs; and improve public understanding of GEPs through Indonesia Biosafety Clearing House (BCH).

Dr. Karden Mulya of Indonesian Center for Agricultural Biotechnology and Genetic Resources Research and Development (ICABIOGRAD) discussed the procedures for application and implementation of biosafety assessment of GEPs, noting that according to GR number 21 year 2005, the Biosafety Technical Team of Genetically Engineered Product (TTKH) will assist KKH (Biosafety Commission of Genetically Engineered Product) in conducting evaluation and technical assessment of biosafety and GEPs. "In relation to GEPs, we should consider the assessment principles i.e. cultural and religion (genes controlling trait do not originate from an organism that is prohibited by religion or a particular culture), aesthetic and ethics (the modified trait does not change the aesthetic value of a particular crop or livestock)," he added.

In addition, Dr. Susi Nurmayanti of Indonesia's Ministry of Environment explained that the applicant shall conduct environmental safety test at the laboratory, limited test facility and or limited test field for the GEPs. Application for the conduct of these activities are also submitted for approval by the KKH.

For details on the forum, visit http://www.indonesiabch.org/index_en.php, or email admin@indonesiabch.org. For information on biotechnology in Indonesia contact Dewi Suryani at catleyavanda@gmail.com.