International Researchers Visit Unhas Geophysics Department for Tsunami Research Collaboration
The Department of Geophysics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA), Hasanuddin University (UNHAS) welcomed a visit from three international researchers on 6 August 2025. They were Dr. Abang Mansyursyah Surya Nugraha and Dr. Ignatius Ryan Pranantyo, research fellows, from the Earth Observatory of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; and Dr. Jędrzej Majewski, an Associate Professor from Adam Mickiewicz University, Poland. This visit was part of their research mission in Sulawesi in collaboration with UNHAS, Syiah Kuala University in Aceh, and Samudera University in Aceh aiming to deepen the understanding of the historical occurrence of tsunamis in the Sulawesi region.
Before departing for the field sites, the researchers took the opportunity to engage in a discussion with UNHAS Master’s students in Geophysics about ongoing tsunami research. During the session, they provided valuable feedback on research methodology, data analysis, and international perspectives in tsunami studies.
In the discussion session, Master’s students presented the current studies they are working on, focusing on potential tsunami hazards from tectonic activity in northern Sulawesi, western Mamuju, and eastern Southeast Sulawesi. They received constructive input regarding the accuracy of the models used. Potential research topics were also highlighted, including historical tsunami events such as the 1996 Toli-Toli and 2000 Banggai events.
They were welcomed by the Head of the Department of Geophysics, Dr. Alimuddin Hamzah, along with several faculty members. Dr. Alimuddin expressed that this activity is expected to pave the way for stronger partnerships and research collaborations between the parties, particularly in efforts to mitigate tsunami disasters in Sulawesi in the future. “This collaboration is important not only for advancing research but also for strengthening our capacity to anticipate and reduce disaster risks,” said Dr. Alimuddin.
Through this synergy, it is hoped that the research findings will make a significant contribution to disaster mitigation efforts and community safety in tsunami-prone areas.
