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Primate Basic Medicine 2025: Preserving Primates Through Veterinary Approach

Student Activity Thursday, 19 June 2025

Wildlife Study Group (Kelompok Studi Satwa Liar/KSSL) Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FVM) UGM has implemented the Primate Basic Medicine 2025 activity. The theme raised in this seminar and workshop activity is Primates Guardian: Preserving Primates Through Veterinary Approach. The purpose of implementing Primate Basic Medicine is to gain new insights, learn about medical examinations on primates, and prevent the spread of zoonosis in Bornean Orangutan or Pongo pygmaeus.

Pongo pygmaesus was chosen because this species is one of Indonesia’s endemic primates that is currently Critically Endangered according to the IUCN Red List. Its population continues to decline due to deforestation, illegal hunting, and conflict with humans. The orangutan population continues to decline sharply, especially due to massive deforestation for palm oil plantations and forest fires that destroy their habitat. There are also many cases of orangutans being injured or dying because they are considered pests by residents, or because they are hunted and kept illegally.

One heartbreaking case occurred in 2018, when an orangutan was found dead floating in the Barito River, Central Kalimantan, with 40 bullets in its body. In another case, many baby orangutans were confiscated from illegal trade, where the mother had to be killed first to get her child.

Orangutans are “forest engineers” who maintain the balance of the ecosystem. They spread seeds and help regenerate the forest. Losing them means losing the guardians of the tropical forest who also support human life. Discussing and raising this issue is the first step to build our empathy and awareness as future veterinarians for a more sustainable future.

This activity was held on Saturday, May 17 2025, at Gembira Loka Zoo. The event began with a seminar by Adwitiya Irene Kumaralalita, DVM. She explained about general knowledge of Pongo sp., zoonotic diseases, and medical examinations on Pongo pygmaeus at Gembira Loka Zoo. The activity began with a presentation. After that, the partiicpants were divided into three groups: medical check-up, laboratory, and blowgun workshop. The medical examination was conducted on Pongo pygmaeus at Gembira Loka Zoo, named Pretty. The medical examinations carried out were in the form of blood sampling, general check-up, USG, X-ray, and dentistry.

The seminar and workshop activities that have been carried out can increase understanding and awareness of the health and existence of wildlife, especially Pongo pygmaeus. It can  strengthens the sense of concern for the health and sustainability of primate populations in nature, adds knowledge about Pongo pygmaeus both in terms of general health and conservation, and provides participants with experience in conducting direct medical examinations of Pongo pygmaeus.

Thus, this activity contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals in point 4 regarding quality education, point 15 regarding Life on Land, and point 13 Climate Action. In addition, this activity also strengthens the relationship among KSSL members and with the instituion’s parther such as Gembira Loka Zoo, contributing in point 17 Parthership for the Goals.

Salam lestari!

 

 

Author: Putri Alisha Salsabila
Photo Credit: Aisha

Community Service Collaborates with Millennials for Livestock Maintenance and Sales

News Thursday, 19 June 2025

The Undergraduate Program of Veterinary Medicine conducted a Community Service activity at Ambal Beach, Ambalresmi, Kebumen, Central Java on Thursday (22/5). This activity involved the Kebumen Agriculture and Food Security Office, the Barokah Livestock Group and several students of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine as committee. This Community Service carried out by the Undergraduate Program of Veterinary Medicine has been running for three years in Kebumen.

It began with a remark from the Head of the Undergraduate Program in Veterinary Medicine, Dr. drh. Hery Wijayanto, M.P. He said that Community Service in Kebumen is entering its third year, where each activity focuses on livestock management such as goats and cows. In the second year, the activities focused on FMD and SLD cases which were booming at that time attacking livestock. Drh. Hery hopes that this activity will increase the knowledge of livestock group members about livestock management.

Then, Bambang Budi Sanyoto, S.H. as the head of Ambal sub-district also welcomed the Community Service team. Bambang explained that the condition of livestock and agriculture in Ambal Sub-district is quite good. This is indicated by the large number of Ambal residents who cultivate Ongole-Breed Kebumen cattle which focuses on breeding efforts. In addition, the role of the veterinarian team from the Agriculture and Food Security Office such as drh. Nurul is also very prominent. For example, in cattle auction activities, it can produce cattle that have high selling value. In addition, it is also supported by the village funds which are quite high so that the procurement of cattle in the village is quite good. Haji Wagino, as the head of Kenojoyajan sub-district also added that in Ambal Sub-district there is a millennial farmer livestock group called Barokah which has been formed for 3 years.

The series of activities carried out included a presentation on parasitic diseases in cattle and goats and their prevention by Dr. drh. Dwi Priyowidodo, M.P. The enthusiasm of the participants was evident from the many questions asked to the speaker. Furthermore, another presentation was given on modern maintenance management for cattle and goat. There is no doubt that this is relevant to the conditions of the Barokah Livestock Group which consists of millennial residents. The activity continued with pregnancy checks and ultrasound examinations by Prof. drh. Agung Budiyanto, M.P., drh. Yosua Kristian Adi, M.Sc., Ph.D and drh. Aditya Widyapramita, M.Sc. A total of 25 cows were examined, 15 of which were positively pregnant. Of course, this result was welcomed by the Barokah livestock group residents.

This activity strengthens the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 2 Zero Hunger related to livestock health management, SDG 4 Quality Education, SDG 12 Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 15 Life on Land, and SDG 17 partnerships for the goals.

Realizing Smart Village for Livestock, Veterinary Professional Education FVM UGM Collaborates with Tulungagung Animal Health Service in Community Service 2025

News Thursday, 19 June 2025

The Veterinary Professional Education Study Program (VPE) of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FVM) Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) Yogyakarta held a community service on 13-14 June 2025 in Tuluagung Regency, East Java Province, Indonesia. On this occasion, FVM UGM collaborated with the Tulungagung Animal Husbandry and Animal Health Service (Disnakeswan). This event carried the theme “Efforts to Improve Cattle and Goat Livestock Based on Smart Village in the Tulungagung Regency Livestock Groups”.

This Community Service Activity aims to provide education to livestock farmers regarding the challenges faced in the current era of globalization, which requires people to be technology literate. This activity supports the younger generation of livestock farmers to utilize technology in livestock management. This activity was attended by around 50 heads of livestock groups.

This activity was divided into 2 sessions, namely presentation or material sharing sessions, and workshops. The material session was delivered by one of the professors in the field of Internal Medicine and Pharmacology FVM UGM, namely Prof. Dr. drh. Ida Tjahajati, M.P. and Prof. Dr. drh. Agustina Dwi Wijayanti, M.P. While the workshop session was practiced directly by Prof. drh. Agung Budiyanto, MP., Ph.D who is the Vice Dean 1 of FVM UGM and a professor in the field of Animal Reproduction. This activity was carried out in the yard of the KUA, Kalidawir District, Tulungagung Regency.

Reported by the Central Statistics Agency, in 2024 Tulungagung Regency produced 10,734,000 kg of beef, 677,775 kg of dairy beef, and 49,635,325 kg of milk. The abundant supply of meat and milk has a significant role in food security, especially in Indonesia. As conveyed by Prof. Ida, “Goat and cattle farming have a strategic role in providing animal food, economic resources, and national food security. However, livestock productivity is greatly influenced by animal health. Both infectious and non-infectious diseases can be a serious threat to livestock farmers”. In her presentation, she explained how to recognize symptoms of disease in livestock, how to carry out first aid, and how to prevent the diseases appropriately.

Furthermore, the participants also received material on livestock treatment and the use of herbs. Prof. Agustina explained herbal medicine recipes that can be used by farmers for several diseases that attack livestock, but are not too severe, for example, bloating can use ginger, turmeric, massage oil/warming balm. This knowledge helps farmers as a first aid measure for livestock.

For the animal reproductive health examination workshop session, Prof. Agung used a young female cow to be examined for pregnancy. This examination was carried out using ultrasound (USG) specifically for livestock. After that, the FVM UGM team also provided medicine and vitamins for residents’ livestock.

For the next 2 years, the FVM UGM team will continue to provide assistance to livestock groups fostered by the Animal Health Service. It is also planned to develop a Smart Village for livestock management involving students from across faculties at UGM in the thematic Community Service Program. This activity supports several values ​​of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), namely point 2 Zero Hunger, point 3 Health and Well-being, point 4 Quality Education, point 12 Responsible Production and Consumption, point 15 Life on Land, and point 17 Partnership for the goals.

Faculty of Veterinary Medicine UGM and Gembira Loka Zoo Collaborate on Research, Education, and Wildlife Conservation

News Wednesday, 18 June 2025

Yogyakarta, Tuesday (17/6) — The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Universitas Gadjah Mada (FoVM UGM) officially signed a collaborative agreement with Gembira Loka Zoo (GL Zoo) to strengthen joint efforts in research, education, and animal conservation. The signing ceremony took place at the Mayang Tirta Room, Gembira Loka Zoo, Yogyakarta (SDGs 4: Quality Education, SDGs 17: Partnerships for the goals).

This partnership focuses on the use of invasive fish species—such as Arapaima, Alligator Gar, Piranha, Redtail Catfish, Snakehead, and Nile Tilapia—and ostriches (Struthio camelus) as educational and research subjects. These species, though non-native to Indonesia, are considered valuable for scientific study and learning in veterinary education. Dean of FoVM UGM, Prof. Teguh Budipitojo, DVM., M.P., Ph.D., emphasized that the collaboration serves as crucial exposure for veterinary students to learn about biodiversity, including non-native and endemic species. One of the primary goals of this initiative is to utilize invasive fish species in germplasm research, which includes both native and non-native fish that have aggressively colonized specific habitats. These species can pose significant ecological, economic, and social threats if left unmanaged (SDGs 14: Life Below Water).

Additionally, ostriches, large flightless birds originating from Africa, are being used for research and teaching purposes. Prof. Teguh noted that ostriches hold strategic scientific value in the field of veterinary science, particularly in avian studies, and their inclusion in research contributes to the conservation of biological diversity (SDGs 15: Life on Land).

Director of GL Zoo, KMT A. Tirtodiprojo, stated that the institution has maintained a long-standing relationship with FoVM UGM. However, this collaboration marks a new chapter focusing specifically on research and education around invasive species. According to him, invasive fishes present serious ecological and social challenges that require attention from academia (SDGs 4: Quality Education, SDGs 17: Partnerships for the goals).

Further support comes from the Department of Fisheries and Marine Affairs of the Special Region of Yogyakarta. Representing the department, Fitrianto Noorcahyo expressed that a separate collaboration with FoVM UGM is being planned to support educational programs utilizing invasive fish species. He noted that Yogyakarta is currently leading in invasive species monitoring in Indonesia, and partnerships like this are vital to enhancing surveillance efforts and raising public awareness about the dangers posed by invasive species. The event concluded with a site visit to observe the ostrich and tiger breeding facilities at the zoo (SDGs 4: Quality Education, SDGs 13: Climate Action, SDGs 17: Partnerships for the goals).

Veterinary Integrity and Skill Improvement (VISI) 2025

Student Activity Thursday, 12 June 2025

Veterinary Integrity and Skill Improvement (VISI) is an annual event organized by PC IMAKAHI UGM under the Department of Human Resource Development. It aims to introduce various veterinary career opportunities both domestically and internationally, and to raise awareness of the importance of understanding necropsy skills as a fundamental competency for veterinary professionals. This year, VISI carries the theme “The Pulse of Knowledge from What Once Was Silent: A Provision for Veterinary Students’ Career Exploration,” held offline on May 31, 2025, at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada.

VISI consists of two presentation sessions, a Q&A session, and a quiz. This is followed by Kegiatan Belajar Bersama Kastrat (BEBEK) in the form of a necropsy workshop on June 1, 2025. The first session is delivered by drh. Amanda Yonica Poetri Faradifa, with the sub-theme “Exploring Veterinary Career Opportunities at the National and International Scale,” discusses domestic and international career paths in veterinary medicine, as well as the challenges of working in both contexts. The second session is delivered by drh. Woro Danur Wendo, M.Sc., Ph.D., with the sub-theme “Understanding Necropsy Skills and Ethics as Core Competencies in the Veterinary Profession,” which explains the technical aspects of necropsy, ethical practices in conducting necropsy, and its role as a basic professional competency for veterinarians.

Following the event on May 31, 2025, Kegiatan Belajar Bersama Kastrat (BEBEK) continues the next day with a chicken necropsy workshop. Kegiatan Belajar Bersama Kastrat (BEBEK) is organized by PC IMAKAHI UGM under the Strategic Studies Department. The necropsy activity takes place in the Anatomy Department Laboratory of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, and is guided by laboratory assistants from the same department.

Both the main theme and sub-themes of the sessions presented align with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. Through VISI, students of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Universitas Gadjah Mada received early exposure to the wide range of opportunities available to veterinarians both locally and internationally. The event also aimed to raise awareness and understanding of necropsy skills, including the importance of ethical practices in performing them. Mastering these skills is expected to contribute to animal health and food safety, forming an essential part of the One Health approach that connects human, animal, and environmental health. It is hoped that VISI will broaden students’ perspectives on career possibilities in the veterinary field and enhance their professional competencies. Despite some challenges during the preparation phase, the VISI 2025 unfolded smoothly and successfully, thanks to the unwavering support and collaboration of various parties.

 

© Elvina Caroline
Contact Person Head Organizer: +62 812-3002-8456 (Neisha Nadine Tamariska Tambun)
Photo Credit: Regina Sekar Nathania

REPTILE BASIC MEDICINE: Reticulated Python: The Art of Scale and Style

Student Activity Thursday, 12 June 2025

The Kelompok Studi Satwa Liar (KSSL) of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, UGM, has carried out Reptile Basic Medicine 2025 activities. The theme raised at this seminar and workshop was “Reticulated Python: The Art of Scale and Style.” The purpose of implementing Reptile Basic Medicine is to gain new insights into anatomy, handling and restraint, identification, and basic medicine in the reticulated python. This activity was held on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at Jogja Exotarium Mini Zoo. The event began with a seminar by drh. Antonia Agnes consists of materials about: taxonomy, anatomy, morphology, physiology, handling and restraint, and basic medicine in snakes. A question-and-answer session, a discussion on handling and restraint, and a medical examination of the reticulated python followed this. The medical examination consisted of a general check-up and an injection of vitamin B complex.

The seminar and workshop activities that have been conducted can help increase understanding of wildlife and its health, especially that of reticulated pythons. Participants from KSSL member organizations are expected to raise awareness and concern about the health and sustainability of reticulated python snake populations in the wild. By increasing understanding of reticulated python snakes from general check-ups, health, and conservation aspects, participants can gain valuable experience in conducting direct medical examinations on pythons. Considering that reticulated snake populations around the world face numerous threats, including poaching, illegal trade, and habitat loss, this activity is crucial in the effort to conserve and care for wildlife, especially this species.

Therefore, this activity contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, specifically points 3 (good health and well-being), 4 (quality education), and 15 (maintaining the land ecosystem). This activity provided educational and skill-based training, particularly in the field of wildlife, playing a vital role in promoting human safety and animal welfare, especially in the context of handling wild animals. Additionally, this activity strengthens the relationship between members of KSSL FKH UGM.

Salam Lestari!

 

 

Contact Person: 08119776161 (Justin Gracio Kosasih)
Author: Oryzza Sativa Nur’Arsya
Photo Credit: Yulia Nur Amelia

Department Of Pharmacology Faculty of Veterinary Medicine UGM Hosts Guest Lecture On “Ethnoveterinary Medicine and Toxicology” With Dr. Krestel Joy V. Isla

News Wednesday, 11 June 2025

Yogyakarta – Wednesday, May 28th, 2025, the Department of Pharmacology Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), held a guest lecture titled “Ethnoveterinary Medicine and Toxicology”. The event featured Dr. Krestel Joy V. Isla, a lecturer from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Tarlac Agricultural University, Philippines. This online lecture allowed participants from various locations to join, promoting global partnership in education and research.

The guest lecture was officially opened by the Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Prof. Agung Budiyanto, DVM, M.P., Ph.D. In his opening remarks, Prof. Agung expressed his appreciation to the Department of Pharmacology for organizing this insightful event. He emphasized the importance of such programs in providing valuable knowledge to students and hoped that they would continue to be held sustainably. He also conveyed the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern veterinary practice, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as affordable medicines.

Dr. Krestel Joy V. Isla presented a fascinating topic that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of affordable medicines and biodiversity. Indonesia, known for its rich biodiversity, has a plethora of plants that can potentially be utilized as herbal medicines for animals. This aspect of ethnoveterinary medicine is crucial, as it promotes equal access to alternative treatments that are both effective and environmentally friendly.

During her presentation, Dr. Krestel highlighted the significance of ethnobotanical preparations as a promising approach to introduce alternative sources of nutrition and treatment for animals. She explained that these preparations often utilize fermentation methods to enhance the herbal potential of various plants and fruits, making them viable alternatives for animal healthcare.

The use of plants as alternative treatments not only supports economic productivity by reducing costs associated with conventional medicines but also encourages creativity and innovation in veterinary practices. Dr. Krestel pointed out that the efficient use of resources in agriculture and animal husbandry is essential for sustainable development.

However, she also mentioned the importance of conducting thorough phytochemical analyses and toxicity testing of these plants before advancing to further research stages. This precaution ensures the safety and efficacy of herbal treatments, which is vital for both animal welfare and public health.

Some of the plants and fruits that have been studied for their potential benefits in animal health include water spinach (kangkung), bananas, ginger, garlic, and onions. The students showed great enthusiasm during the lecture, engaging actively with Dr. Krestel’s insights and asking questions about the practical applications of her research.

The event not only provided valuable knowledge but also fostered a global partnership in veterinary education, connecting students and professionals across borders. It exemplified the commitment of UGM to enhance access to education and promote sustainable practices in veterinary medicine.

In conclusion, the guest lecture by Dr. Krestel Joy V. Isla was a significant contribution to the field of ethnoveterinary medicine, highlighting the potential of Indonesia’s rich biodiversity in developing affordable and effective treatments for animals. The Department of Pharmacology at FVM UGM continues to play a vital role in advancing education for sustainability and fostering innovation in veterinary practices.

“Akupawnture: Healing Animals Through the Points of Life”

Student Activity Wednesday, 11 June 2025

Kelompok Diskusi Klinik (KODIK) is an initiative organized by the Kelompok Studi Hewan Kesayangan (KSHK) of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada. This activity aims to enhance students’ skills in handling various clinical cases, continuously discuss fundamental clinical knowledge, and improve client education abilities to raise public awareness on the importance of maintaining the health of companion animals. The establishment of this clinical discussion initiative was driven by the limited learning media available for students to explore clinical knowledge in the companion animal field, the need to equip students with necessary skills to manage clinical cases before entering professional practice, and the necessity of a platform to increase students’ experience in clinical aspects such as client education.

KODIK 1 was held offline on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Room 301, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. The event carried the theme “Akupawnture: Healing Animals Through the Points of Life” and featured drh. Lily Gunawan, CVA, CVTP, M.Sc., is the speaker. She is a veterinary practitioner specializing in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM).

The event began with a presentation by drh. Lily Gunawan, CVA, CVTP, M.Sc., delivered an in-depth explanation of acupuncture, including its definition, stimulation mechanisms and effects, contraindications, and commonly used acupuncture points in clinical practice. This session served as a vital foundation for participants to gain a comprehensive understanding of acupuncture. It was followed by an interactive Q&A session, where participants were actively engaged by asking critical and practical questions. To encourage participation, the committee awarded a prize to the best questioner as a form of appreciation.

During the hands-on session, participants were divided into groups and guided by experienced trainers. In this session, they practiced basic acupuncture techniques using animal models as simulation tools. Although the practice used models, the session was designed to closely simulate real clinical conditions closely, ensuring a practical and applicable learning experience. Trainers provided intensive supervision to ensure the correct implementation of techniques. Following the hands-on session, participants took part in a quiz to assess their understanding of the material, with special prizes awarded to those who achieved the highest scores. The event concluded with the presentation of a token of appreciation to drh. Lily Gunawan, CVA, CVTP, M.Sc., was the head organizer, followed by a group photo session with all participants and committee members.

The entire series of activities in KODIK 1 was designed not only to enhance students’ technical skills in clinical practice but also to develop essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and client education, competencies that are crucial for future veterinary professionals.

KODIK 1 supports several points of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These include SDGs 3: Good Health and Well-being, by enhancing students’ knowledge and skills in clinical examination and treatment of companion animals, which directly contributes to improving the quality of animal healthcare and welfare. In addition, this activity supports SDG 4: Quality Education by providing direct learning experiences through both material presentation and hands-on clinical practice sessions, promoting an applied learning process. KODIK 1 also aligns with SDGs 10: Reduced Inequalities, by offering equal opportunities for all students to learn about acupuncture regardless of their backgrounds, thus supporting equitable e 3: Good Health and Well-being, by enhancing students’ knowledge and skills in clinical examination and treatment of companion animals, which directly contributes to improving the quality of animal healthcare and welfare. In addition, this activity supports SDG 4: Quality Education in the field of veterinary medicine and aligns with SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, as demonstrated using safe and sustainable alternative treatments that help reduce dependence on chemical-based medications.

 

 

Author: Nisrina Nabila Putri Snelius
Contact Person Chairman of the Committee: Tharina Firanty Rafiani (081396901541)
Photo Credit: Kelompok Diskusi Klinik 1 2025 Documentation Team

WEEKEND GETAWAY KSSL FKH UGM 2025

Student Activity Wednesday, 11 June 2025

The KSSL Weekend Getaway is an annual event designed to strengthen bonds among KSSL members while increasing awareness and knowledge about wildlife in its natural habitat. This year’s event was held on May 24–25, 2025, at Bella Plaza Lodge, Jl. Naga, Kaliurang, Hargobinangun, Pakem District, Sleman Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta. The event was attended by 61 active KSSL members in 2025.

The event began with participants departing from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. The activities started with an opening ceremony followed by welcoming remarks from the event chair, department head, KSSL chair, and the KSSL supervisor. The event continued with games and outbound activities until 4:30 PM. Afterwards, participants had free time to rest, eat, or explore until 9:00 PM. The next activity was herping (searching for reptiles and amphibians) in the nearby forest until midnight. Participants then rested until morning. The next day at 6:30 AM, the event continued with a birdwatching session in the forest near the lodge. Afterward, everyone had breakfast together. Preparations for the closing ceremony followed, and from 10:15 to 11:00 AM, participants cleaned up and returned to the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine.

Through this Weekend Getaway event, participants gained a deeper understanding of their surroundings, particularly wildlife. It fostered a sense of environmental concern, increased knowledge about wildlife, and strengthened camaraderie among KSSL members. This activity also contributed to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goals 3 on Good Health and Well-being, Goals 4 on Quality Education, Goals 13 on Climate Action, Goals 15 on Life on Land, and Goals 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. Although the event went smoothly, minor errors that need improvement were acknowledged. Nonetheless, overall, the event successfully reinforced the family spirit within KSSL FKH UGM.

Salam Lestari!

 

Contact : 081215046426 (Tatsa Ghefira Anggitaning Haryanto)
Writer : Nisrina Nur Fakhirah Weldhaeni
Photo credit : Nasyifa Qurrota A’yuninnas

AWARE OF ISSUE 2025

Student Activity Wednesday, 11 June 2025

Aware of Issue is one of the annual flagship programs initiated by the Department of Studies, Action, and Propaganda of BEM FKH UGM. This program serves as a platform for the Veterinary Medicine Student Family of UGM (KM FKH UGM) and the general public to collectively address one of BEM FKH UGM’s strategic focus issues: animal health. This year, Aware of Issue 2025 returns with the theme “A Pawfect Pet”, aiming to raise public awareness about the importance of animal health and welfare, particularly for pets. As a strategic issue, animal health has fundamental, significant, and long-term impacts, making consistent attention and action essential. Aware of Issue 2025 represents BEM FKH UGM’s commitment to its roles in advocacy and public service through education and real action.

The Aware of Issue 2025 series consisted of published studies, educational content, and campaigns, culminating in a final event featuring a seminar and a medical check-up for pets. Educational content and campaigns were posted via the Instagram account @aoi_bemfkhugm, focusing on animal health and welfare topics. The highlight of Aware of Issue 2025 took place on Sunday, May 25, 2025, from 09:30 to 14:00 WIB at Seminar Rooms 1 and 2 of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, UGM. The event opened with remarks from the Head of the Organizing Committee, the President of BEM FKH UGM, and representatives from the faculty leadership. The main activities included a seminar titled “Beyond PawLove: The Real PawDuty Every Pet Deserves”, followed by a medical check-up for pets brought by participants.

The seminar featured drh. Yonathan Alvin Maruli Asi Sihotang, M.Sc., as the keynote speaker, provided an in-depth discussion on the definition of pet animals, along with various common examples. Dr. Alvin emphasized the importance of meeting the basic needs of pets, including care and affection from their owners, regular health maintenance, and a balanced diet through proper food and water provision. He also addressed common challenges faced by pet owners, such as financial constraints in caring for their pets, health risks to the owners, and a general lack of understanding regarding animal welfare. Furthermore, the seminar explored the negative impacts on pets when their basic needs are not met, affecting both their physical and mental health. The session concluded with a strong emphasis that pet ownership or adoption is not merely a hobby but a long-term commitment that comes with serious responsibility for ensuring the animals’ quality of life.

Following the seminar, a medical check-up session was held in Seminar Room 2, conducted by drh. Falin Fadhila Linawati is a practicing veterinarian. The check-up was attended by participants bringing a variety of pets, including cats, guinea pigs, sugar gliders, and other small animals. Through the Aware of Issue 2025 series, it is hoped that collective awareness will grow regarding the importance of maintaining animal health and welfare as a shared responsibility. This event also contributes to the achievement of several key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goals 3: Good Health and Well-being, 4: Quality Education, 13: Climate Action, and 15: Life on Land.

 

Cr: Nadia Atika Rahma
Ketua Pelaksana Aware of Issue, Muhamad Zukan Azzaki Salis Mualim (+62 851-5696-5294)