Indonesia's BRIN Showcases Nuclear Technology Research Progress, Covering Radiopharmaceuticals and Food Irradiation Applications

The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) of Indonesia recently showcased its nuclear technology research achievements at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta. BRIN Head Arief Satria stated that the relevant technologies fall within the scope of peaceful uses of nuclear energy, with applications extending beyond energy to also cover food and health sectors.

In the health sector, BRIN is developing radiopharmaceuticals for nuclear medicine. These drugs contain radioactive substances and can be used for cancer diagnosis and treatment. Arief stated that radiopharmaceutical research and development is of great significance for cancer detection and therapy.

In the food sector, BRIN applies nuclear technology to food preservation, with a focus on irradiation treatment of export fruits. Arief explained that some importing countries require fruits to undergo irradiation treatment before export to extend shelf life and improve product quality. Currently, BRIN has established relevant facilities in areas such as Pasar Jumat and Serpong.

Arief also stated that BRIN will continue to systematically advance nuclear technology capacity building, covering uranium and thorium mining and refining, fuel fabrication, reactor technology, safety, radiation metrology, and waste management. He said these efforts are aimed at making early preparations for Indonesia's potential future entry into the nuclear power plant construction phase, avoiding a start from scratch or merely serving as a technology purchaser at that time.