This initiative reflects ITB's strong commitment to supporting IKN's Forest City vision—a sustainable, environmentally friendly urban development concept that prioritizes ecological conservation. Under the partnership, ITB has been entrusted with managing a 125-hectare forest block dedicated to the university's Tri Dharma missions: education, research, and community service.

Establishing a Multidisciplinary Task Force

As a follow-up to the initiative, ITB has established the Task Force for the Planning of the IKN Urban Forest Management Collaboration, chaired by Prof. Endah Sulistyawati. The task force brings together faculty members from multiple disciplines, including the School of Life Sciences and Technology (SITH), the School of Architecture, Planning and Policy Development (SAPPK), the Faculty of Earth Sciences and Technology (FITB), and the School of Electrical Engineering and Informatics (STEI).

To date, the task force has conducted a series of preliminary assessments, including aerial surveys and environmental mapping. The findings reveal that the area, predominantly covered by Eucalyptus trees, possesses rich biodiversity, with 42 plant species and 40 bird species identified, including several endemic and protected species.

A Knowledge Hub for Bioresources and Green Technology
The Urban Forest is envisioned as a landmark of ITB's presence in IKN and will serve as a Knowledge Hub focusing on bioresource utilization and green technology. Several strategic programs have been prepared, including:

-Education: Providing a venue for field courses, design studios, and experiential learning for ITB students and international academic partners.
-Research: Advancing studies on forest transformation and the development of smart forest technologies.
-Community Service: Establishing agroforestry demonstration plots, delivering appropriate technology training, and providing expert support for sustainable development initiatives.

Strengthening Collaboration with Local Partners and OIKN
ITB is also building strong partnerships with local stakeholders. In July 2025, the task force initiated collaboration with SMKN 1 Penajam Paser Utara to develop smart forest initiatives, as well as Pondok Pesantren Hidayatullah Pemaluan for agroforestry and aquaculture programs. These collaborations are expected to foster a collaborative ecosystem connecting higher education institutions with local communities.

High-level coordination with OIKN has also continued. In mid-October 2025, ITB representatives met with OIKN deputy officials to present the strategic plan. The collaboration has now entered an advanced stage of discussion and is expected to be formalized through an official agreement in the near future.

ITB also welcomes broader partnerships with government agencies, industry, academic institutions, and other stakeholders to support the development of research infrastructure and tree-planting initiatives for forest restoration in IKN.

"We hope that ITB's forest in IKN will become not only a green space but also a center for innovation and learning that strengthens the spirit of the university's Tri Dharma," said Prof. Endah Sulistyawati.