Indonesia's BRIN partners with PT PAL on maritime tech and advances Malapari biofuel project

PT PAL Indonesia and the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) signed a non‑disclosure agreement on 13 July 2026 in Surabaya to co‑develop hydrodynamics technology for maritime platforms, including underwater systems. The collaboration aims to boost performance, efficiency and competitiveness of the national shipbuilding sector and reflects a triple‑helix approach linking industry, research and government.

Separately, BRIN is developing the native malapari (Pongamia pinnata) tree as a feedstock for biodiesel and sustainable aviation fuel. The plant can grow on degraded or marginal lands, fixing nitrogen and improving soil, while its oil is processed into bio‑fuels and its by‑products are explored for animal feed and skincare. BRIN has already produced malapari‑based biodiesel and reports strong interest from overseas companies, including Japanese firms, for commercial scaling.