State-owned coal mining company PT Bukit Asam (PTBA) is collaborating with the Gadjah Mada University (UGM) for research and development of low-calorie coal into humic acid.

Arsal Ismail, President Director of PT Bukit Asam, said that the development of innovations related to coal downstreaming is needed to face future challenges.

"Research and development of coal into humic acid is one of our efforts to present derivative products from coal in line with government policies that encourage downstreaming to increase added value domestically," Arsal said on Tuesday, December 17, 2024.

The launch of the humic acid prototype was carried out in the Peranap mining business permit (IUP) area, Indragiri Hulu, Riau, on Thursday, December 17, 2024. The prototype will then be developed towards a pilot project.

Humic acid is an organic substance that is mixed into fertilizer and can help fertilize and improve soil quality by improving structure, maintaining moisture, and helping plants absorb nutrients better.

The development of coal into humic acid will help meet the need for fertilizer products, in order to support national food security to provide non-stop energy for the nation's young generation.

Arsal said that this humic acid prototype is the beginning of a long journey towards developing high-value products.

"We are optimistic that this innovation will provide great benefits not only from an economic perspective, but also to improve people's welfare and support sustainable development," he said.

Ferian Anggara, Coordinator of the UGM Research Team, said that initial research results showed that low-calorie coal from the Peranap IUP could produce quality humic acid.

"Hopefully the collaboration between PTBA and UGM can produce innovations that expand the use of coal, and improve community welfare," he said.