Indonesia only talks about corruption, even though the most important elements within development are innovation, science, and technologyMataram, Nusa Tenggara Barat (ANTARA) - The Regional Research and Innovation Agency (Brida) is playing an important role as a provider of research- and innovation-based solutions to develop regions and handle their problems.
Head of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) Laksana Tri Handoko made the remarks during the XX Research and Innovation Science Youth Week Opening (PIRN) here on Monday.
Brida, as an organ of regional governments, is expected to become an agent for bringing regional problems to the central level, he noted.
Through this, solutions for those problems can be sought at the central level.
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In addition, Brida can apply solutions from the center or other regions in their respective regions, if they are found applicable, Handoko said.
BRIN is aiming to form 50 Bridas across Indonesia at the province, district, and city levels. Currently, 72 Brida proposals from districts and cities are being processed.
In order to be established, the Bridas must receive a recommendation from BRIN first, and then gain approval from the Home Affairs Ministry and the Regional House of Representatives (DPRD).
Handoko claimed that there are no significant hurdles in the Brida formation process. There are only administration issues that are taking time to process, such as receiving DPRD approval, he added.
Research and innovation are vital for development, according to him. Hence, it is expected that the existence of Brida in each region can bring research and innovation closer to each region to handle problems in various sectors.
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So far, three provinces have set up Brida offices: West Nusa Tenggara, Bali, and Central Java.
For now, the Bali Brida is focusing on the development of herbal medicines using local natural ingredients.
The Central Java Brida is prioritizing the development of the larger industry, such as the manufacturing industry, while the West Nusa Tenggara Brida is focusing on the development of small and medium industries such as industries dealing with car components.
According to the Governor of West Nusa Tenggara, Zulkieflimansyah, Brida is an important regional organization because it can coordinate across different fields for the utilization of research and innovation to answer regional problems.
"Indonesia only talks about corruption, even though the most important elements within development are innovation, science, and technology," he remarked.
Brida should play an important role in promoting research and innovation results among the people, including encouraging the development of industry in regions through research- and innovation-based solutions, he said.
Brida can also serve as an incubator for ideas that do not have a place in the market, he added.
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Translator: Martha H S, Fadhli Ruhman
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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