Garuda Scholarship recipient creates peatland fire detection robot

A Garuda Scholarship recipient from South Tangerang, Imran, has successfully created Robot Gambut, a prototype developed to detect fires beneath the soil surface while also carrying out initial suppression.

In a statement in Jakarta on Tuesday, Imran explained that the pipe-shaped robot is equipped with a number of sensors and a long-range communication system (LoRa) capable of transmitting data and activating a pump for initial suppression when it detects indications of fire.

“It started in junior high school, then in senior high school I studied Physics and Mathematics to deepen my knowledge of robotics, and that is how it has developed until now,” he said.

In addition to Robot Gambut, the student from SMA Negeri 2 South Tangerang City has also developed an artificial intelligence-based application to assist in the early detection of oral and tongue cancer.

Imran said he plans to continue developing his research interests through studying Electrical Engineering at KAIST.

Responding to this, the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Brian Yuliarto, assessed that the Robot Gambut prototype is a good first step, to be further developed by taking into account technical needs and its application in the field. One of the matters of concern is the coverage radius of the device.

“This means it is a good start. Later it should be coordinated with the relevant parties so that the needs are understood, because the radius must also be an issue,” he said.

Minister Brian also advised that the opportunity obtained through the Garuda Scholarship be used to broaden knowledge and experience while studying abroad.

“It is also good to learn many things there. While the technology is very advanced, visit laboratories often, learn many things, and also learn from the community and the excellent educational culture. I hope you finish,” said Brian Yuliarto.

It is known that the Garuda Scholarship is a scholarship programme that aims to provide the widest possible access and opportunities for achievement to Indonesia’s sons and daughters, as well as to be part of Indonesia’s science and technology development ecosystem.