Yogyakarta, June 24, 2026 – Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) welcomed representatives from the Directorate of Drug Standardization for Narcotics, Psychotropics, Precursors, and Addictive Substances (NPPZA) of Indonesia’s Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) for a Site Visit to Research and Testing Facilities and a Sharing Session on Collaboration between BPOM and Academia as a Strategy for Developing the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement) Guidelines. The visit took place on Wednesday (June 24) at UGM’s research and testing facilities and was conducted as part of the Strengthening the Regulatory System for Vaccine Oversight Related to Lot Release program supported by the Gates Foundation.
The visit aimed to strengthen collaboration between regulators and academic institutions in developing the 3Rs Guidelines, an approach designed to reduce the use of animals in research and testing without compromising the safety, efficacy, and quality of biological products. Through this activity, the BPOM team gained first-hand insights into the research and testing processes conducted at UGM’s biological product research facilities and laboratory animal units, while also discussing opportunities, challenges, and innovations that could support the implementation of 3Rs principles in Indonesia.
During the discussion and question-and-answer session, participants explored advancements in scientifically validated alternative testing methods and highlighted the importance of collaboration among regulatory agencies, universities, and researchers in developing regulations that keep pace with scientific and technological progress. The exchange of knowledge is expected to contribute to a stronger national research ecosystem while supporting the development of testing standards that are more effective, efficient, and aligned with animal welfare principles.
This initiative contributes to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) by supporting the safety and quality of biological products for public health, SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) through the advancement of innovative testing methods and sustainable research infrastructure, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering strategic collaboration among regulatory bodies, academic institutions, and international partners. Through this partnership, the development of the 3Rs Guidelines is expected to result in science-based, practical, and forward-looking policies that strengthen Indonesia’s biological product regulatory system.
Author: Rizqi Vazrin | Editor: Fathul | Photo: Gilang
