IPB University Student Develops Innovative Technology-Based Mine Monitoring System
Bogor, Indonesia – October 4, 2025
A group of students from IPB University has once again demonstrated their dedication to addressing critical national issues by developing a cutting-edge mine monitoring system through the Student Creativity Program for Constructive Ideas Video (PKM-VGK).
Led by Akma Naufal Rabbani, a student from the Land Resource Management Study Program, the team conceptualized EMASS (Empowered Mining Analytics Surveillance System): an Intelligent Operations Center (IOC) designed for comprehensive mining and reclamation monitoring across Indonesia.
Addressing Weaknesses in Indonesia’s Mining Surveillance
Akma explained that the EMASS initiative was motivated by concerns over the existing weaknesses in the Indonesian mining surveillance system. “While the mining sector is vital to our economy, it also brings challenges such as illegal mining, regulatory violations, and incomplete reclamation efforts,” he stated.
Highlighting the scarcity of mining inspectors, Akma noted that the current ratio is one inspector for every 39 mining business licenses. This falls significantly short of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) standard, which recommends one inspector per 5 to 7 licenses.
“The current monitoring system is fragmented, dependent on company-supplied reports, and primarily reactive—it acts only after damage has taken place. EMASS is intended to transform this paradigm into a proactive framework,” he emphasized.
EMASS: An Intelligent Command Center for Real-Time Monitoring
The EMASS system is envisioned as a highly sophisticated command center that integrates and analyzes multiple sources of surveillance data—satellite imagery, drone captures, public reports, and cross-agency information—all in real time.
“Think of the IOC as a nationwide mine monitoring control room, enabling the government to make fast, informed, and precise decisions,” Akma described.
To make the concept accessible and engaging, the team produced a four-minute video employing three key strategies: developing an emotional narrative featuring a family affected by mining activities, presenting the ideas in a simple talk-show style, and utilizing 3D animations to visualize the system.
“The goal was to ensure that even individuals without technical backgrounds could immediately understand how EMASS works,” Akma added.
Supporting Sustainable Mining Aligned with Global Goals
EMASS also advocates for sustainable mining practices by promoting a shift toward proactive monitoring, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Despite challenges in the scientific and technical aspects of producing the video, Akma expressed hope that EMASS will make a meaningful impact. “For the community, it opens up empowerment channels. For the government, it can serve as a blueprint for mining governance reform. For academics, we hope it inspires other students to tackle significant national challenges,” he concluded.
The Team and Mentorship
The project involved a multidisciplinary team including Alifah Rizkyani (Land Resource Management), Aiman Bindillah (Sharia Economics), Muhammad Ajisaka Arsyi Taj (Computer Science), and Muhammad Eljalalludin Rummi (Computer Science). The team received guidance from Ir Wahyu Purwakusuma, MSc, a lecturer at the Department of Land Resource Management, Faculty of Agriculture, IPB University.
This innovative initiative exemplifies the spirit of IPB University students in leveraging technology and interdisciplinary collaboration to contribute to national development and environmental sustainability.
About IPB University
Located in Bogor, West Java, IPB University is renowned as a leading institution in agriculture, life sciences, and related fields. The university emphasizes research, community service, and innovation to address Indonesia’s developmental challenges. For more information, visit www.ipb.ac.id.
