Dr. Tatang Hernas Soerawidjaja: The Architect of Indonesian Chemurgy and Driver of Future Energy

Few scientists look beyond the confines of their research. However, for Dr. Ir. Tatang Hernas Soerawidjaja, dedicating over three decades to building the foundation of Indonesia’s renewable energy was a calling. Long before bioenergy became a mainstream topic, Dr. Tatang was already advocating for its importance in a world still tethered to fossil fuels.

In recognition of his lifelong dedication, the Indonesian Biofuel Producers Association (APROBI) officially awarded the Chairman of the Indonesian Bioenergy Association (IKABI) the title of “Father of Indonesian Chemurgy” (Bapak Kemurgi Indonesia) during a national seminar in Jakarta on July 17, 2025.

 

A Visionary from the Halls of ITB

Dr. Tatang’s journey began in the 1990s while serving as the Head of the Chemical Engineering Department at the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB). During an era when fossil fuels reigned supreme, he foresaw their eventual decline and began presenting ideas on biodiesel as a vital component of the national fuel mix.

He didn’t just stop at theories; he led a team at ITB to develop palm-based biodiesel decades before it became a national mandate. His approach was never merely technical—it was strategic, aimed at securing the nation’s energy independence.

Defining “Chemurgy” in Indonesia

Dr. Tatang was the pioneer behind the Bioenergy and Chemurgy Engineering study program at ITB. This field focuses on utilizing renewable natural resources to produce energy and non-food products from vegetable oils and biomass.

The concept of “Chemurgy”—the branch of applied chemistry concerned with preparing industrial products from agricultural raw materials—became the scientific and industrial bedrock for Indonesia. This concept was eventually adopted by the government, leading to the creation of the Directorate of Chemurgy, Oleochemical, and Feed Industries (IKOP) under the Ministry of Industry. Remarkably, the first director of IKOP was one of Dr. Tatang’s former students, proving that his influence reached far into the halls of policy-making.

Translating Research into Policy

Upon receiving the award from APROBI, Dr. Tatang expressed his hope for a more energy-independent Indonesia. He highlighted the next great challenge: producing drop-in hydrocarbons from non-fossil resources like palm oil, palm kernel, and organic waste.

As the Chairman of IKABI and a member of the Technical Committee for Liquid Bioenergy at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), Dr. Tatang remains a key architect of national energy direction. He continues to teach at ITB, guiding the next generation toward research that is not only scientifically sound but practically applicable to the nation’s needs.

A Legacy for the Next Generation

The title “Father of Indonesian Chemurgy” is more than a lifetime achievement award; it is a call to action for young scientists. In the face of global climate crises, Dr. Tatang serves as a reminder that major change starts with a single idea, pursued with consistency and a patriotic spirit.

Dr. Tatang Hernas Soerawidjaja is more than a scientist; he is the architect of Indonesia’s energy future, ensuring that the country’s vast biological wealth becomes the backbone of its sustainable progress.