Jakarta: The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is working with private companies to develop malapari (Pongamia pinnata) plants in Lembata District, East Nusa Tenggara, as an alternative fuel source aimed at strengthening Indonesia’s energy security, reports Antara.
BRIN researcher Budi Leksono from the Applied Botany Research Center said in Jakarta on Monday that malapari is gaining attention as a future source of clean energy.
He said the plant offers more than just fuel potential, as it can also improve local livelihoods while contributing to efforts to cut carbon emissions.
Leksono explained that malapari seeds produce oil that cannot be used for food, making it suitable as a raw material for biodiesel and bioavtur. Because the oil does not affect food supplies, it fits well with global aviation rules that encourage the use of sustainable fuels.
He noted that malapari seeds naturally yield between 20 and 28 per cent oil, but this figure can rise to around 44 per cent through careful plant selection and improved processing methods.
According to Leksono, BRIN’s research focuses on breeding high-quality trees that produce fruit faster, deliver higher yields and contain more oil.
Malapari also has environmental benefits. As a legume plant, it can absorb nitrogen from the air through its roots, reducing the need for nitrogen-based fertilisers.
These traits allow malapari to grow well on poor soil and in dry areas, including regions in eastern Indonesia such as Lembata, he said.
Development of malapari in Lembata is being carried out under a community-based agroforestry system. This approach allows local residents to grow crops such as coffee and cocoa beneath the malapari trees.
Leksono said the project is not limited to energy production but is also designed to support climate change mitigation efforts.
He expressed confidence that large-scale planting of malapari could help Indonesia meet its emission reduction targets while creating opportunities for carbon trading that would bring additional income to local communities.
This year, BRIN’s work will focus on setting up certified seed sources and developing high-quality malapari varieties native to Lembata.
Leksono said closer cooperation among government bodies, regional authorities, researchers, businesses and the media is expected to speed up the development of malapari as a strategic national crop that is sustainable, inclusive and based on local strengths.
