Cosmax, a global cosmetics original development and manufacturing company, said Friday that it is joining the launch of Indonesia’s first undergraduate program dedicated to cosmetics.

The company will participate as an industry partner, seeking to foster local research and development expertise.

Cosmax will take part in the launch of the bachelor’s program in cosmetology at the Faculty of Pharmacy of Universitas Padjadjaran in West Java, Indonesia.

The new program is the country’s first undergraduate course specializing in cosmetics. It will cover the broader cosmetics R&D process, from basic research on skin and hair to formulation development and efficacy testing.

The company will also serve as an industry partner in the Academia-Business-Government program, a government-led initiative aimed at commercializing academic research.

Through the partnership, Cosmax Indonesia and UNPAD will expand joint research using Indonesia’s native biological resources. Projects will include developing antioxidant ingredients from tempoyak, a traditional fermented durian product, and skin-brightening ingredients through the fermentation of angkak, a type of red yeast rice.

Cosmax will also support the establishment of a teaching factory on campus, providing students with hands-on experience. The company plans to operate year-round internships and recruit local R&D personnel.

“We will continue to expand industry-academia cooperation and advance our technology so Indonesia’s abundant natural resources can become high-value ingredients recognized in global markets,” said Cheong Min-kyoung, head of Cosmax Indonesia.

“We will set new standards for the local cosmetics industry and foster future talent.”

By Jung Young-seon (jyoungseon8@heraldcorp.com)