SEAToday.com, Jakarta - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has officially opened the Begonia Greenhouse at the Bogor Botanical Gardens, West Java, as part of efforts to strengthen education, conservation, and biodiversity research in Indonesia.

BRIN Head Laksana Tri Handoko emphasized that the initiative is not solely focused on commercial benefits but on long-term sustainability.

"If the goal were purely business, the profit margin would not be significant. But when we talk about sustainability, this is a long-term investment with a broad impact," Handoko stated, as quoted on Antara, in Jakarta on Monday.

The inauguration is the result of collaboration between BRIN and PT Mitra Natura Raya (MNR), reflecting a synergy between the research sector and private industry to develop inclusive and inspiring conservation facilities for the public.

Handoko highlighted that the Begonia Greenhouse is more than just a new landmark within the Bogor Botanical Gardens—it serves as a model for managing botanical collections across Indonesia.

"We hope this greenhouse becomes an enduring educational legacy, inspiring researchers and local governments to engage in more ambitious and innovative partnerships," he said as quoted on Antara.

He also underscored the need for improved botanical garden management and increased professionalism in conservation efforts.

"In the past, there were many governance challenges. However, through partnerships like this, we are creating a healthier and more efficient ecosystem," he added as quoted on Antara.

Handoko stressed that partnerships play a crucial role in supporting conservation and education initiatives without placing an excessive financial burden on the state.

Echoing this sentiment, PT Mitra Natura Raya Commissioner Ery Erlangga expressed appreciation for BRIN’s trust in fostering a conservation-based educational ecosystem.

He noted that the Begonia Greenhouse is designed to present educational content in ways that resonate with younger generations.

"We want to convey the importance of science and biodiversity in a way that is engaging and relevant to today's audience," Erlangga stated as quoted on Antara.

The greenhouse not only showcases the beauty of Begonia plants but also highlights their ecological significance and role within ecosystems. BRIN researchers have contributed scientific data and research-based insights to support the initiative.

This collaboration is seen as an effective model for government and non-government sectors to jointly manage biodiversity conservation. Moving forward, the greenhouse is expected to serve as a foundation for the development of other thematic collections, such as bamboo gardens and specialized plant exhibits featuring Indonesia’s native flora, many of which remain underexplored.

Writer: Andi Raisa Malaha Thambas