Makassar (ANTARA) - Hasanuddin University (UNHAS), in collaboration with the Akademi Ilmu Pengetahuan Indonesia or Indonesian Academy of Sciences (AIPI), held Wallacea Science Symposium at UNHAS Hotel and Convention on August 13-15, 2023. The symposium was conducted to commemorate the 200 years of Wallace in Indonesia as well as his contribution to biodiversity. This three-days event was attended by scientists, historians, artists, researchers, students, and the public.

On the first day, 13 August, the participants visited the historical site where Alfred Russel Wallace used to live in Maros, South Sulawesi. The second day was the symposium, and the third was the plenary session. The exciting thing about this event was the exhibition. The photos of biodiversity and the history of Wallacea were displayed. Riza Marlon, a prominent photographer from National Geographic Indonesia, attended the symposium and talked about his experience photographing nature and wildlife.

On this occasion, Prof. Daniel, The Head of Akademi Ilmu Pengetahuan Indonesia (AIPI) or Indonesian Academy of Sciences, started the conversation by congratulating Prof. Jamaluddin Jompa and UNHAS for the very memorable opening of the event. "With the support of the local government and the private sector, UNHAS was able to organize this event, something much better than before," said Prof. Daniel. Furthermore, Prof. Daniel also expressed his appreciation to the Dana Ilmu Pengetahuan Indonesia or Indonesian Science Fund (DIPI), the Akademi Ilmuwan Muda Indonesia or the Indonesian Academy of Young Scientists (ALMI) for attending the event.

He also believes that the collaboration between DIPI, ALMI, and AIPI can help young talents throughout the archipelago. "If we find unique and interesting young talents, then it's time for us to support their abilities fully," added the President of AIPI. Prof. Daniel said that Wallace's inspirational story, whose name still exists today, proves how important science is for everyone. The Mayor of Makassar hosted the dinner party to welcome all the distinguished guests to Makassar and also to show his support for science development.