PtBio Group Signs MOU with PT IJO Inovasi Indonesia to Advance Sustainable Agriculture

16.07.2026

The PtBio Group (comprising PtBio Asia Sdn. Bhd. and PtBio, Inc.) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with PT IJO Inovasi Indonesia (IJO). This joint research initiative aims to advance sustainable agriculture in Indonesia by combining IJO's proprietary seaweed-based bio-input technology (GROOW™) with PtBio's advanced genomic analysis.

Project Scope and Target Crops

The collaborative research will be conducted sequentially and focuses on uncovering valuable genetic and soil health data for vital crops:

• Corn: Identification of drought-tolerance candidate genes using reference genome-based GWAS.

• Sweet Potato: Identification of Brix and anthocyanin-related candidate genes, using a diploid wild relative as a proxy reference genome.

• Cacao: Draft genome assembly with gene annotation.

• Coffee: Soil metagenomics (16S rRNA analysis) to evaluate the soil-biology impact following the Aceh Tamiang flood rehabilitation case.

Drawing on the field data accumulated by IJO in local agricultural fields, the partnership will conduct genomic analysis tailored to the specific challenges of each crop, ranging from candidate gene identification to soil metagenomic analysis. This research is conducted with a view toward applying for international research funding programs, as the companies aim to generate scientific evidence that contributes to food security and sustainable agriculture.