In the realm of agriculture, achieving sustainable productivity remains a paramount goal. PT. Kaltim Methanol Industry is a company in the petrochemical industry producing methanol solely in Indonesia and located in the industrial area of PT. Kaltim Industrial Estate (a subsidiary company of PT. Pupuk Kalimantan Timur) Bontang, about 110 kms to the north of Samarinda city, the capital of East Kalimantan province.
Fertilizers play a pivotal role in this pursuit, particularly those that are well-adapted to local soil conditions and crop requirements. Among these, We are trying to teach international students from “Suntropis 2024” Summer school events to participate and learn about this.
The students came from diverse countries with various educational backgrounds. and the committees that had been created led them to Bontang,East Kalimantan, to learn firsthand how Pupuk Kaltim, one of Indonesia’s leading fertilizer companies, transforms natural resources into fertilizers that support national food security.
During the visit, the students were presented with a variety of fascinating information and experiences. They were invited to explore the fertilizer plant, observe the production process up close, and engage in dialogue with experts in their fields. One of the main focuses of this visit was to learn about the industry, especially the role of methanol in the fertilizer production process.
Kaltim Methanol Industri, which is adjacent to Pupuk Kaltim, plays a crucial role as a methanol provider. Methanol is produced through a natural gas reforming process and further processed to meet the needs of other chemical industries. During this visit, we saw firsthand the efficient and environmentally friendly methanol production process. The close relationship between Kaltim Methanol Industri and Pupuk Kaltim ensures a steady supply of quality methanol, which is crucial for the sustainability of fertilizer production.
The students were enthusiastic to learn how methanol is transformed into fertilizer that is essential for the agricultural sector. They not only understood the role of methanol in improving soil fertility and supporting plant growth but also realized the importance of sustainable and environmentally friendly production processes.
The visit to Pupuk Kaltim was a valuable experience for the international students. They not only gained new knowledge about the fertilizer industry and the role of methanol but also experienced firsthand Pupuk Kaltim’s dedication and commitment to supporting food security and environmental sustainability.
Rapporteur: Muhammad Rafi Yahya & Muhammad Fathan Al Ghazali
