JAKARTA – Melon breeding research in Indonesia is gaining momentum as scientists at Universitas Pembangunan Nasional (UPN) Veteran Yogyakarta work to develop premium-quality varieties for both domestic and commercial markets.
Dr. Bambang Supriatna, a leading researcher and head of the regional plant breeding association (PERIPI) for Yogyakarta and Central Java, has been spearheading melon breeding programs since 2019. His research focuses on producing high-quality melons with superior sweetness, texture, and visual appeal.
The program initially involved crossbreeding commercial Golden melon varieties with the Natsion variety, both known for their balanced sweet and slightly acidic flavor profiles. After several years of selection, the research has reached the fifth generation, with promising results in both fruit quality and stability.
“We are targeting premium melons with high sugar content and a crunchy texture,” Bambang explained. Early testing shows sugar levels reaching 13–14 Brix, placing the fruit within the premium category.
Two main variants have emerged from the program. Both feature yellow skin, but one displays unique spotted patterns, while the other has a smoother surface. Internally, the fruit differs in flesh color, ranging from white to greenish-white, offering distinct visual and taste profiles.
The research also explores both hybrid and open-pollinated (OP) breeding approaches. While hybrid varieties dominate commercial agriculture, Bambang’s team is developing OP varieties that could reduce seed production costs while maintaining strong yields and resilience.
“These intermediate pollination characteristics allow the plant to maintain productivity without significant inbreeding decline,” he said, highlighting the potential for wider field adaptation and cost efficiency.
The team is currently preparing official documentation to register the new varieties, marking a key step toward commercialization. Comparative trials with existing commercial varieties are also underway to evaluate competitiveness before market release.
Beyond melons, UPN researchers are actively collaborating with institutions across Indonesia, including field trials in Lampung and Bogor. These partnerships are critical for multi-location testing, ensuring that new varieties perform consistently across different environments.
The collaboration also benefits students, who are directly involved in research projects. According to Bambang, integrating students into breeding programs accelerates both academic progress and practical skill development.
“Collaboration is the key,” he said. “By working together, we can produce varieties that truly meet farmers’ needs and improve Indonesia’s agricultural sector.”
The initiative reflects a broader push to strengthen agricultural innovation in Indonesia, with researchers aiming to deliver high-quality, locally developed crop varieties that can compete in both domestic and global markets.