Astra Agro Inspires IPB Students with Digital Transformation in Palm Oil Plantations

Palm Oil Magazine
Through hands-on learning and innovation sharing, Astra Agro Lestari introduces IPB Agribusiness students to the latest digital systems driving efficiency, transparency, and sustainability across Indonesia’s palm oil sector. Photo by: Astra Agro

PALMOILMAGAZINE, JAKARTA — PT Astra Agro Lestari Tbk introduced its digitalization initiatives in palm oil plantation management to Agribusiness students from IPB University, as part of the company’s efforts to promote innovation and sustainable agribusiness practices.

“Digital transformation is a vital component of Astra Agro’s strategy to strengthen an inclusive and sustainable agribusiness ecosystem,” said Astra Agro Director, Bandung Sahari, during a session with 55 students from the Department of Agribusiness, Faculty of Economics and Management, IPB University, at Astra Agro’s head office in late October.

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Speaking in front of members of the Agribusiness Student Professional Association (HIPMA), Bandung highlighted the vast potential of Indonesia’s palm oil industry and the importance of addressing future challenges through innovative approaches. “We continue to transform by adopting various digital technologies to enhance efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness,” he said. “We hope these students can draw inspiration and embrace the spirit of innovation practiced at Astra Agro Lestari,” he added, in a statement received by beige-heron-208544.hostingersite.com on Thursday (6/11).

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The visit aimed to broaden students’ understanding of how digitalization and technology-driven innovation are applied in managing modern palm oil plantations. It also provided real-world insights into business governance, corporate management, and career opportunities within the agribusiness sector.

In addition to discussions with Bandung Sahari, students and accompanying lecturers — Al-May Abyan Izzy B., SE., M.Si. and Puspita Mardika Lestari, S.E., M.Si. — were welcomed by Dungdang P. Hutapea, Vice President of Human Capital & General Affairs, along with other Astra Agro executives.

During the session, participants were introduced to several key digital systems developed by Astra Agro, including the Plantation Information Management System (PIMS) — a data-driven management platform that integrates real-time plantation operations from harvesting and transportation to CPO processing. PIMS serves as the backbone of Astra Agro’s digital ecosystem.

The company also showcased other innovations such as AMANDA (Astra Agro Mandiri Data Analytics) and DINDA (Digital Integrated Data Application), which support productivity analysis and early detection of operational anomalies.

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To enhance field monitoring, Astra Agro employs drone surveillance and digital field mapping using satellite imagery — technologies that allow precise and efficient monitoring of crop conditions. Meanwhile, the SISKA 2.0 application was introduced to increase transparency and efficiency in Fresh Fruit Bunch (FFB) transactions from third parties through a digital tracking system.

Expressing appreciation for the learning opportunity, Yanuar Afrizal Hidayat, Head of HIPMA IPB’s Professional Development Department, said, “What we’ve studied on campus felt much more tangible after learning how Astra Agro implements digitalization in the field. This visit has been truly inspiring. We hope to contribute to the palm oil industry in the future.”

The event concluded with an interactive discussion, where students exchanged ideas with Astra Agro’s team on innovation strategies, sustainable plantation management challenges, and the role of young professionals in accelerating Indonesia’s agribusiness transformation.

Through initiatives like this, Astra Agro reaffirms its commitment to supporting education and preparing the next generation of competent agribusiness leaders ready to thrive in a technology-driven industry. (P3)

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