Two students from the Biology Study Program, Faculty of Science and Mathematics (FSM), Universitas Diponegoro, Rhania Rifda Alyananda and Vionina Rezvira Althaf, participated in the 9th International Conference of Food and Nutrition (ICFN 2026), held on May 29–30, 2026, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The international conference, conducted in a hybrid format, brought together researchers, academics, students, and professionals from various countries. The event served as a platform for exchanging knowledge, presenting research findings, and expanding opportunities for collaboration in the fields of food, nutrition, the environment, and global health.
During the conference, Rhania Rifda Alyananda presented her research entitled “Size-Dependent and Organ-Specific Microplastic Accumulation in Caught Fish Market at the Fish Auction Site in Jepara, Central Java, Indonesia.” The study examined the quantity, size, and distribution of microplastics in the organs of captured fish sold at a fish auction site in Jepara, Central Java.
The findings highlighted the potential impacts of plastic waste pollution on aquatic organisms and food safety. The study also demonstrated the importance of strengthening regulations and improving plastic-use management in Indonesia to reduce the risk of microplastics entering the food chain.
Meanwhile, Vionina Rezvira Althaf presented her research entitled “Spatial and Species-Specific Variation in Microplastic Accumulation in Bivalves from Karimun Coastal Waters, Indonesia.” The study discussed variations in microplastic accumulation among several bivalve species based on species type and sampling locations in the coastal waters of Karimun.
Vionina’s study is expected to provide scientific information regarding the level of microplastic pollution in the Karimun coastal area. This information may serve as a basis for developing more effective and sustainable mitigation measures and coastal environmental management strategies.
ICFN 2026 carried the theme “Innovative Food Systems and Sustainable Nutrition for Global Health.” The theme emphasized the importance of integrating science, technology, policy, and community involvement in addressing global challenges related to food production and distribution, nutritional fulfilment, and the protection of human health.
The conference was organised in collaboration with the Center of Marine Ecology and Biomonitoring for Sustainable Aquaculture (Ce-MEBSA) at Universitas Diponegoro and IFERP Academy–Malaysia Society. This collaboration provided broader opportunities for exchanging ideas and developing international research partnerships.
The participation of Rhania Rifda Alyananda and Vionina Rezvira Althaf in ICFN 2026 contributed to strengthening Universitas Diponegoro’s international academic network. Their research was also relevant to efforts to maintain the quality of aquatic environments, improve food safety, and protect human health from the risks of microplastic pollution.
The participation of FSM UNDIP students in this international forum reflects Universitas Diponegoro’s commitment to supporting its internationalisation programme through the strengthening of global academic networks, the improvement of education and research quality, and the development of students’ learning experiences in an international environment.