Elaeidobius sp., a small yet crucial insect, plays a central role in boosting oil palm yields and supporting sustainable palm oil production in Indonesia. However, its population is increasingly at risk from habitat changes and intensive cultivation practices.

To address these threats, the Faculty of Agriculture at Universitas Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran” Yogyakarta (UPNVY) has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with PT Windu Nabatindo Lestari, a leading palm oil plantation company. The partnership, formalised on 1 July 2025 at the UPNVY campus, will drive research on conservation strategies for Elaeidobius sp., blending ecological science with sustainable plantation technology.

Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture emphasised the importance of strong academic–industry collaboration to meet sustainability challenges. Company representatives expressed optimism that the project would deliver tangible benefits for eco-friendly and efficient plantation management.

The research team, led by Dr. Mofit Eko Poerwanto, will build on a nationally competitive grant previously awarded to the department. The MoA signing was attended by faculty leaders, researchers, and company delegates, marking the beginning of broader collaborative initiatives in the future