In 2015, Ms. Falasifah began her academic journey as a student in the Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Mathematics (FSM), Diponegoro University. From the very beginning, she showed a strong interest in microorganisms and the basic principles of biotechnology, which later developed into a deep passion for microalgae, particularly Spirulina.
After graduating in 2019, Ms. Falasifah founded PT. Alga Bioteknologi Indonesia (ALBITEC), a company dedicated to developing Spirulina as a solution for healthy food, natural cosmetics, and carbon emission absorption. This journey was full of challenges, ranging from limited funding, unsuccessful field research, to gaining public trust in local microalgae-based products.
A turning point came when ALBITEC began to be recognized as a research and innovation partner by various national and international institutions. Flagship products such as spirulina coffee, natural skincare, and high-quality fish feed were successfully marketed. For Ms. Falasifah, building ALBITEC is not just a business—it is a mission of sustainability: bringing innovation from the lab to the community.
Her consistency in developing ALBITEC has paid off. Among the many achievements she has earned are: representing Indonesian spirulina at international exhibitions such as Hannover Messe (Germany), Osong Beauty Expo and Comeup (South Korea), and Vietfood & Beverage Expo (Vietnam); being a recipient of the Australia Awards Short Course – Women-Led MSMEs Ready to Export 2024 at RMIT University, Australia; 2nd Place Winner at Ecothon Indonesia 2023 by ASEM SMEs Eco Innovation Center and South Korea’s Ministry of SMEs and Startups; 2024 Semarang City Millennial Farmer awardee by the Mayor of Semarang; 1st Place Winner of the 2023 National Fresh Food Products Competition; Best Business Plan for Culinary Category at Wirausaha Muda Mandiri 2023; Top 10 Youth Economic Leadership Program by Bank Indonesia 2021; Outstanding Youth award by Indonesia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora) 2020; and recognized as one of the 74 Pancasila Achievement Figures in Science and Innovation by BPIP RI in 2019.
The knowledge and experiences gained at FSM UNDIP served as a crucial foundation in Ms. Falasifah’s career. In addition to equipping her with scientific expertise, FSM UNDIP inspired her to bring science closer to the public. A supportive academic atmosphere, guidance from exceptional lecturers, and opportunities to participate in organizational activities during her studies all helped shape her confidence and leadership as a young entrepreneur in the field of biotechnology.
To current FSM students, Ms. Falasifah shares this message:
“Don’t be afraid to dream big and start with what’s around you. The knowledge you’re learning at FSM can become real solutions for the world—as long as you stay persistent, keep learning, and dare to take the first step. Science doesn’t just belong in the lab, but also in building a better future.”
[Public Communication/FSM/Meilia]