Balikpapan, November 12, 2025 — Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK), through its Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM), successfully held the National Seminar on Community Service (SEPAKAT) 2025. The event brought together collaborations across universities and industries, serving as a platform for sharing innovations from research and community service initiatives that deliver tangible benefits to society.

ITK’s Commitment to Meaningful Innovation

Head of LPPM ITK, Dr. Eng. Yunita Triana, emphasized in her opening remarks that SEPAKAT is not merely an academic activity but a concrete manifestation of ITK’s contribution to society.

“This event demonstrates that research and community service conducted by ITK lecturers and students can make a real positive impact on society. SEPAKAT is expected to become a forum for knowledge transfer and the exchange of new innovations across institutions,” she stated.

The seminar was attended by participants from several universities, including ITS, Universitas Borneo Tarakan, and Universitas Sriwijaya, who also presented their research and community engagement projects.

ITK as an Innovative and Active University

Representing the Rector of ITK, Ir. Khakim Ghozali, M.MT., as the Vice Rector II for Non-Academic Affairs of ITK, expressed his appreciation to all participants and collaborators.

“This event is a real embodiment of ITK’s role as an active and innovative university. Through SEPAKAT, we invite the public to directly witness the research and community service works produced by our academic community,” he said.

He also expressed hope that the event would inspire more creative works, strengthen synergy, and foster a spirit of collaboration between universities and industries.

Government Support for Collaborative Innovation

The East Kalimantan Provincial Government’s address was delivered by drh. Arief Murdiyatno, Expert Staff to the Governor, representing the Governor of East Kalimantan. In his remarks, he underscored the strategic importance of SEPAKAT.

“This event is not just a seminar but a collaborative forum to unite ideas and create real solutions for society. Technological collaboration in research and innovation is the key to sustainable regional development,” said Arief.

The East Kalimantan Government also expressed its full support for strengthening a sustainable research and innovation ecosystem in the region, in line with the development of the new capital city, Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN).

Inspirational Insights from the Speakers

The main session of SEPAKAT featured national-level speakers from various fields:

• Dr. Muhsin Palinrungi, S.S., M.A., Director of Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy of IKN, presented a talk on “Social Innovation and Digital Transformation in Ibu Kota Nusantara.” He highlighted the importance of harmony between culture and technology in realizing a sustainable smart city in Nusantara.
• Setyo Sapto Edi, General Manager of PT Pertamina Hulu Mahakam (PHM), shared insights on sustainable innovation through the Desa Energi Berdikari and Wasteco programs, both of which have received multiple international awards for their contributions to renewable energy management and community empowerment.
• Iskandar Budisaroso Kuntoadji, founder of the Institut Bisnis dan Ekonomi Kerakyatan (IBEKA), delivered a presentation titled “Resilient Empowerment: Social Innovation Based on Energy Balance.” He emphasized the importance of community empowerment rooted in energy self-sufficiency and the balance between technology, nature, and social needs.

The panel discussion was moderated by Dr. Happy Aprillia, S.ST., M.T., M.Eng., Ph.D., who guided an engaging and interactive dialogue between participants and speakers.

Synergy for a Sustainable Future

Through SEPAKAT 2025, ITK reaffirms its role as an innovation hub in East Kalimantan, bridging academia, industry, and society. The event is expected to foster new collaborations in research and community service while inspiring other universities to advance sustainable development driven by research and technology.

About SEPAKAT

The National Seminar on Community Service (SEPAKAT) is an annual event organized by LPPM ITK as a forum for disseminating the outcomes of research and community engagement. Through this activity, ITK remains committed to strengthening the role of higher education institutions in supporting sustainable development, enhancing community capacity, and advancing innovation based on local needs.