Why Sukanto Tanoto Contribution Matters for Research and Development

Indonesia faces shortage in research papers and projects compared to other countries, even among fellow Asian countries. So far, Indonesian government only gives 0.05% of the total GDP for scientific research and development, while other Asian countries contribute at least 2%. Sukanto Tanoto, an owner of Royal Golden Eagle Group and Asian Agri, stepped in to fill the financial gap left by the government for scientific communities. He contributed many parts of his company’s CSR program budget toward education and scientific research and development.

Sukanto Tanoto Gives Grants for Researchers

There are many potential studies, phenomena and programs to be researched in scientific environment, but many researchers simply cannot do and finish their projects with more satisfying results because there is not much budget. Therefore, it is important for private companies, especially the ones with big revenues, to act in more philanthropic ways in using their CSR program budget. Sukanto Tanoto is one of the company owners that do just that. He stepped up in the world of Indonesian research and development field through his foundation, Tanoto Foundation.

Tanoto Foundation has special funding program for researchers, which is given to researchers and professors who conduct potential researches that can contribute to economy, social, science, health and many other important aspects, which support national prosperity. Tanoto Foundation Professor Award is given to Indonesian researchers and professors, which is a form of research grant that can worth as much as US$65,000 to US$130,000. 

Only recently, the foundation grants its award to two Indonesian professors who study about ganoderma fungus and sustainable energy source. Sukanto chose the two professors because the two researches were important because they support Indonesia’s agriculture and future energy needs.

Why Indonesia Needs More Researches

Researches, studies and developments are ways to grow various industries and professional fields in Indonesia to go forward. Since there are fast developments in various fields in the world, especially with the advance of communication and information technology, it is important for Asian countries to get more involved in scientific studies, especially with many Asian countries’ status as the new rising stars in the global economy.

Fulfilling his role in the world of Indonesia’s education, Sukanto Tanoto hopes that there are more private company owners who step down to help increasing support for scientific study, research and development fields, giving Indonesia opportunity to be one of reputable Asian countries with good track record in professional research.