Kusatsu, Japan — Akhmad Mahbubi, Associate Professor at the Department of Agribusiness, UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, represented the university as a speaker at The 2nd Conference of the Society of Asian Food Studies in conjunction with The 15th Asian Food Study Conference, held on 7–9 August 2025 at Ritsumeikan University, Biwako–Kusatsu Campus, Shiga Prefecture, Japan.
In his presentation, titled \"A Halal Geofood Business Model for Enhancing Gastronomic Tourism in Indonesian Geopark Regions\", Dr. Mahbubi introduced a strategic framework to integrate geoheritage potential with halal principles for the development of sustainable gastronomic tourism in Indonesian geoparks. Drawing on qualitative case studies from Ciletuh–Palabuhanratu Geopark and Belitung Geopark, his research highlights the significance of multi-stakeholder collaboration involving local culinary MSMEs, geopark managers, local governments, and halal certification bodies. The proposed model emphasizes heritage preservation, halal compliance, educational culinary experiences, and integrated digital marketing strategies to strengthen tourism competitiveness.
The conference also served as a valuable networking platform. Dr. Mahbubi had the privilege of meeting Prof. Winai Dahlan, Founder of the Halal Science Center at Chulalongkorn University, Thailand, and grandson of KH Ahmad Dahlan, the founder of Muhammadiyah. Their discussion centered on advancing halal research and innovation across Southeast Asia.
In addition, the event brought a personal highlight for Dr. Mahbubi as he reunited with Prof. Arata Mariko, one of his doctoral thesis examiners during his PhD studies at Tokyo University of Agriculture. The reunion underscored the enduring academic connections fostered through international scholarship and research collaboration.
Participation in this conference not only enhanced UIN Jakarta’s visibility in the global academic community but also reinforced its commitment to contributing research-based solutions in the fields of halal business, food studies, and sustainable tourism.