Bridging Glulam Manufacture and Academia
On June 9, 2026, our Quality and Engineering representatives, Afrian and Krisbi, stepped into a different kind of workshop. Instead of the usual production floor or testing laboratory, they found themselves in a lecture hall at Petra Christian University (PCU) in Surabaya as guest lecturers for the Faculty of Architecture.
Narrowing the Gap of Manufacture and Design
The session went beyond a basic introduction to engineered wood products. Afrian and Krisbi guided architecture students through the entire journey of timber, from forest to finished structure. They explained how engineered wood products are manufactured, how they perform under load, and why their carbon-negative properties make them a game-changer for sustainable construction. Through this opportunity, the architecture students of PCU discovered that Keruing glulam installed as a restaurant in Semarang, OTI Signature, stores more carbon than is emitted during manufacturing and transport, making it a powerful tool for sustainable construction.
The discussion naturally expanded into practical applications. Students were introduced to Keruing glulam as a structural component for columns, beams, and trusses, and they also learned about Dekloc, Buana's innovative decking installation system. The presentation covered how Dekloc works, its advantages over traditional fastening methods, and why it offers ease of installation. Students raised thoughtful questions about the effectiveness of the Dekloc system, glulam application and adaptability in modern building design, such as how it can support architectural appeals like curved design, applied treatments such as anti-termite and fire resistance, beam and column dimensions, and comparisons between glulam species. Notably, they were curious about the carbon impact of choosing wood over conventional materials.
Why This Collaboration Matters
For an Indonesian timber manufacturer like Buana, this guest lecture moment was more than a community outreach effort. It was a strategic investment in the future of sustainable construction in Indonesia. Architecture students represent the next generation of decision makers, the ones who will specify materials for future projects. If they understand the benefits of engineered timber for structural, like Buana Keruing glulam, they are more likely to be more aware of it when they become practicing architects.
The architecture and construction industries are at a turning point. Climate goals are demanding lower-carbon solutions and more cities are demanding materials that are both strong and sustainable. Buana Keruing glulam, sourced from a Keruing (Dipterocarpus sp.) in Kalimantan, offers exactly that combination. The engineered timber that is made from durable, structurally robust, and, as recent carbon assessments have shown, carbon-negative when measured across its full life cycle.
By sharing this knowledge with architecture students at Petra Christian University, Buana hopes this collaboration with Petra Christian University will continue. The goal is to create a lasting partnership that supports the development of structural engineered timber in Indonesia and raises awareness of green building practices across the country.
