Maranatha Christian University Builds Moringa Research Centre for Food Security

The development of a moringa research centre is being advanced through collaboration between universities, government, industry, and communities. The effort is expected to produce research-based innovations that do not merely remain in the laboratory but also deliver tangible benefits to society. One source of support comes from Maranatha Christian University (UKM) in Bandung. UKM General Secretary Pan Lindawaty Suherman Sewu, representing the Rectorate, stated that UKM fully supports moringa research and development as part of innovation and community service. “We strongly support this research centre. We will develop this moringa centre to generate innovative research and service by strengthening collaboration between academics, industry, government, and communities,” she said. In addition to reinforcing cross-sector cooperation, the university is also preparing various laboratory facilities to support joint research in developing innovative moringa-based products. Furthermore, human resource capacity building is a focus through knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and the expansion of cooperation networks at both national and international levels. The Moringa Centre management has established communication with several partners from Australia, Singapore, and Germany to open opportunities for funding support as well as the provision of research facilities and equipment. According to Lindawaty, moringa research outcomes need to be directed towards downstream processing to produce products beneficial to society while supporting national resilience. Meanwhile, Theresia Monica Rahardjo, Head of the UKM Moringa Research and Development Centre, explained that Moringa oleifera is known as a miracle tree because it contains nutrients and active compounds that provide various health benefits. One benefit currently under research focus is its ability to help control blood sugar levels. “Research results so far are very promising. However, studies with larger sample sizes are still needed to validate previous findings,” Monica emphasised. The initiator of the One Family One Moringa Tree Movement also explained that several studies indicate moringa has components with biological activity resembling insulin function, thus potentially helping diabetes patients as a companion to medical therapy. The use of moringa leaves serves as a supplement and cannot replace doctor-prescribed medication. Additionally, the high content of vitamins, minerals, protein, and antioxidants in moringa leaves is considered capable of helping meet the nutritional needs of the community, including as a source of nutrition for groups vulnerable to stunting. According to Dr Monica, the moringa plant also has the advantage of growing easily in dry tropical regions, thus potentially supporting the national food security programme. “For healthy individuals, moringa leaves are also good to consume as a supplement to help maintain the immune system, provided they are taken according to the recommended dosage,” she said. Meanwhile, UKM Biotechnology lecturer Adelina Khristiani Rahayu stated that her team’s research utilises cell culture technology, which allows observation of human cells before and after consuming moringa leaves. She noted that young moringa leaves have a higher content of active compounds, thus potentially offering greater benefits compared to older leaves. She also reminded the public not to cook moringa leaves at excessively high temperatures, as this can damage the active substances within them. “Moringa leaves are excellent for meeting human nutritional needs. However, their processing must be carefully considered so that the active compounds are preserved,” Adelina added. Through research collaboration involving various stakeholders, moringa development is expected to yield innovative health products, food items, and supplements based on local resources that are competitive and provide benefits to the wider community.