Brin created an AI system to detect malaria more quickly and accurately
The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) continues to expand the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in various strategic sectors, one of which is the public health sector. The latest innovation is an AI-based malaria diagnosis support system that is able to automatically identify infections through a microscopic image of the blood.
Head of the Research Center for Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security (PRKAKS) BRIN, Anto Satriyo Nugroho, explained that the system was built with data from various regions in Indonesia. This allows AI to recognize various types of malaria parasites that are spread endemicly in the country.
“Interestingly, we use the Morpho-Geometrical Feature Extraction That allows AI to recognize the size and shape of infected blood cells,” Anto said in a written statement, Wednesday, March 8, 2025.
Even so, Anto admits that there are big challenges in developing this system. One of them is the variation in the form of the malaria parasite throughout its life cycle, which often complicates the conventional diagnostic process.
“The complex life stages of parasites are a real challenge in accurate detection. But we are optimistic that AI research and development will consistently produce diagnostic tools that are needed in the national malaria elimination program,” he said.
AI for public health to safety
Anto also emphasized that AI Brin’s research was designed to support, not replace the role of humans, especially in vital sectors such as health, education, and security.
One of the concrete implementations of AI technology is Automatic Car Biometric Authentication System (Mambis) belongs to the Indonesian police. This system helps the process of identifying victims of accidents or disasters through fingerprint scanning—either directly or from hidden traces—as well as the recognition of the iris.
“Each Polres now has two Mambis units to quickly identify the victim at the scene,” explained Anto.
Face Detection to Electronic KTP
Another example of AI utilization is technology Face recognition At the Solo Racing Station. This system speeds up the process of verifying passengers to the platform only in one second, much more efficient than manual procedures that take five seconds.
This initiative involves cross-agency collaboration, such as the Ministry of Home Affairs in technical specifications Electronic ID card, the National Standardization Agency (BSN) for the preparation of SNI Biometry, as well as support from the industrial sector and BRN in the development of authentication systems.
“The key to the success of AI development is the synergy between researchers, government, and industry.
AI is not just a global trend, but a strategic instrument in solving real problems in Indonesia. With a collaborative approach and sustainable innovation, Brin emphasized its commitment to making technology the main tool to improve the quality of people’s lives.
