Biofilm biofertilizer for climate-resilient rice cultivation: A strategic review of emerging Indonesia–Australia collaboration

¹ Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Jebres 57126, Surakarta, Indonesia
² Agrotechnology Study Program of Warmadewa University. Jl. Terompong No.24 Tanjung Bungkak Denpasar, Indonesia
³ Department of Forestry, Faculty of Forestry, Lambung Mangkurat University, Jl. A. Yani Km. 35, Banjabaru, Indonesia
⁴ Doctorate Program, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Jebres 57126, Surakarta, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: widyatmanisih@staff.uns.ac.id

Abstract

Rice farming in Asia is under mounting pressure from drought, salinity, and declining soil health, all of which are intensified by climate change. Biofilm biofertilizer (BB), a microbial technology that embeds beneficial bacteria within biofilm structures, offers a promising solution to enhance plant growth and resilience in paddy fields. This literature review is based on references accessed through Science Direct, Google Scholar, Scopus, and other academic sources. Findings reveal that biofilm biofertilizers can increase rice yields while improving crop performance under water-limited conditions. Beyond yield gains, adoption of BB is strengthened when farmers are actively involved, supported by bilingual training materials and institutional backing. Practical strategies such as farmer field schools and policy-aligned proposals are recommended to ensure effective implementation. In Indonesia, efforts to build climate-resilient agriculture highlight the importance of international collaboration. Emerging partnerships with Australia are identified as strategic opportunities, combining shared scientific goals with community-based approaches. This article underscores the potential of biofilm biofertilizers not only to improve rice production but also to foster long-term cooperation for sustainable agricultural development across the region.