Biotech Updates

Workshop on Potato Breeding Concluded in Makassar, Indonesia

October 7, 2011

The fifth of a series of workshop on potato breeding was concluded in Makassar, Indonesia on 22 September 2011. Around 45 farmers and agricultural workers in South Sulawesi were briefed on biotechnology breeding of potato.  Dr. M. Herman, Dr. Edy Listanto, and Dr. Tri Joko Santoso of Indonesian Center for Agricultural Biotechnology and Genetic Resources Research and Development (ICABIOGRAD) gave presentations on biotechnology products, applications, and regulations in Indonesia for potato trait improvement. 

Mr. Kusmana of the Indonesian Vegetables Research Institute (IVRI) shared information on potato variety improvement through conventional breeding.  The heads of agricultural bureaus of South Sulawesi, Ir. Luthfi, MP expressed his support and enthusiasm for the introduction of biotech potatoes because of its potential to increase crop yield as they are resistant to the devastating late blight disease. The participants showed their interest and active participation during the discussion and expressed their willingness to support the development and adaption of biotech products especially biotech potatoes.

The seminar was co-organized by ICABIOGRAD, IndoBIC, and IVRI. For details on the workshop and on biotechnology in Indonesia, contact Dewi Suryani of Indonesian Biotechnology Information Center at catleyavanda@gmail.com.