UMS-PLN Puslitbang MoU Signing Opens Research Access for Academics

Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) has entered into a cooperation agreement with PLN's Research and Development Center (Puslitbang), marked by the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the Rectorate Meeting Room on Tuesday (28/4/2026).

UMS Rector Prof. Dr. Harun Joko Prayitno, M.Hum. welcomed the partnership warmly, extending a warm greeting to the PLN Puslitbang delegation led by General Manager Mochamad Soleh.

"On this occasion, on behalf of UMS, I extend a warm welcome, sugeng rawuh," Harun said in greeting the delegation.

He expressed hope that the MoU would not remain a mere formality or become what he called a sleeping MoU. "We also hope to be given the opportunity to learn a little. So if possible, let us make sure the MoU does not become a sleeping MoU or a sleeping cooperation agreement. Because an MoU that just sits there, whether it exists or not makes no difference if nothing develops from it," he said.

The cooperation agreement opens up space for UMS lecturers to carry out research activities across various areas.

Harun also highlighted the mutually beneficial relationship he hopes to build with PLN across multiple sectors. He believes that collaboration between PLN, universities, and Muhammadiyah represents a movement of enlightenment and innovation-driven renewal.

The cooperation was marked by the signing of a memorandum of understanding at the UMS Rectorate Meeting Room, April 28, 2026. UMS Public Relations 

Mochamad Soleh noted that PLN Puslitbang is currently actively reaching out to explore and expand its existing partnerships. To date, 18 universities have entered into cooperation agreements with PLN Puslitbang, with UMS now among them.

PLN Puslitbang's mission is to conduct research, develop technology, and drive progress in the electricity sector to meet the needs of the company and its stakeholders. It also carries a mission to implement standardization and carry out technical studies and investigations in the fields of engineering and business, with the aim of improving the quality of Indonesia's electricity services.

"So from Puslitbang's side, we are indeed directed to conduct research and development, as well as innovation, across what you might call the entire value chain of the electricity sector," he said.

The research envisioned, he added, is not limited to science and technology, but also extends to non-technical fields.

Writer: Maysali Sudarwati

Editor: Fika Annisa Sholihah

Translator: Farizal Luqman Majid