With profound sorrow and a deep sense of loss, we honor the passing of Ir. Akhmad Zainal Abidin, M.Sc., Ph.D.—an academic, researcher, and environmental technology innovator, as well as a friend who exemplified dedication and a noble life. He was a lecturer in the Chemical Engineering Study Program at the Faculty of Industrial Technology, Institut Teknologi Bandung (FTI ITB)—an institution that served as the arena for his lifelong scientific and social service. He was a man who regarded knowledge as an act of worship and service as the very breath of his daily life. He was one among many.

In his daily academic life on campus, the late professor was known as a tireless fighter—a man of unwavering persistence and hard work, possessing a depth of thought that transcended mere words. He was not merely an educator but an innovator. He frequently reminded others that chemical engineering is not simply about reactions, mass balances, or process design; rather, it is a discipline dedicated to solving human and environmental challenges. To him, being a scientist meant bearing the responsibility to improve the world, not just to produce publications or prototypes. Consequently, the trajectory of his research and community service was always guided by the pursuit of tangible impact.

In recent years, the late innovator devoted all his energy, time, and intellect to a single major endeavor: developing a sustainable waste processing technology solution grounded in a "Zero Waste" vision. He believed that Indonesia would never overcome its waste crisis without technology that was practical for field implementation, easily replicable, highly efficient, and environmentally friendly. This conviction drove his long-standing and consistent dedication to developing MASARO (Zero Waste Management) technology—an innovation that stands as an enduring digital and intellectual legacy, living on long after his passing.

The MASARO technology, which has garnered widespread attention in recent years, is the product of his comprehensive vision regarding how waste should be perceived: not as a burden, but as a resource. MASARO is not merely a technology, but a system. The concept emphasizes waste segregation at the source, integrated processing, energy recovery from non-recyclable fractions, and the creation of a social ecosystem that fosters sustainability. MASARO also champions the principle of local empowerment—demonstrating that communities can manage their own waste through a system that is structured yet simple. The digital footprint of MASARO bears witness to the profound dedication the late innovator brought to this endeavor. From seminar recordings and technical explanations across various platforms to documentation of field implementations, this body of work now stands as his final gift to the nation.

In every presentation regarding MASARO, he consistently reiterated a single message: “Waste is not the enemy—unless we refuse to manage it.” That simple statement encapsulates his life philosophy: problems are not solved by mere complaining; they require knowledge, collaboration, and perseverance. It was this very dedication that he demonstrated until his final days. He passed away in the midst of his mission, while still striving to develop waste-processing technology that was more refined, affordable, and inclusive for the general public. We have lost a scientist who worked not for applause, but for the future of the Earth and the generations to come.

Colleagues knew him as a determined professional, driven by the goal of achieving meaningful results that would benefit others. He was always willing to make time to discuss ideas and offer input on a wide range of matters. Despite his profound knowledge, he remained approachable and never made others feel intimidated. He spoke with a firm, serious demeanor, yet he made knowledge accessible to everyone—regardless of rank, age, or academic status. Many students had the opportunity to learn from him and gain practical experience under his guidance. Such was the positive and inspiring impact of his presence.

Within the realm of research, he was also known as someone capable of bridging the gap between academia and practical application. His various collaborations with local governments, industry, and environmental communities were not undertaken for publicity, but to ensure the technology was genuinely put to use. In his view, research only holds value when it delivers tangible benefits. Consequently, the initial implementation of MASARO began yielding results in many areas: a reduction in waste sent to landfills, heightened public awareness, and the emergence of small-scale circular economy systems. He took joy not in media coverage of his technology, but in seeing communities able to care for their environment using the technology he had designed.

His passing is a profound loss not only for ITB but for Indonesia as well. Amidst the complexities of the national waste crisis—which continues to escalate alongside population and consumption growth—Indonesia needs more scientists like him: scientists who are realistic and grounded in everyday realities, yet who retain the imagination to devise innovative solutions. Indonesia has lost an innovative engineer; the academic community has lost a sharp thinker; students have lost an inspiring teacher; and we have all lost a deeply creative friend.

However, his legacy did not depart with his physical self. MASARO technology will continue to evolve, carried forward by colleagues, students, researchers, local governments, and all those touched by his dedication. His digital footprint—videos, presentations, research, and technical documents—will remain a source of learning and inspiration for future generations. Above all, the late innovator's spirit—viewing technology as an instrument of change rather than merely an academic achievement—will live on in the minds of many.

In every great intellectual legacy, there is an enduring spirit that allows it to transcend its time. That spirit is sincerity—a sincerity he instilled in MASARO, in his teaching, and in his own life. Those of us who knew him understand that he did not work for the sake of renown, but out of love: love for the earth, for the ordinary people he encountered in the field, and for the students he hoped would carry on the cause. Therein lies the beauty of his life: he departed while still in the midst of the struggle, and precisely because of that, the struggle will not cease.

May Allah SWT accept all his good deeds, pave the way for his return, and give strength to the family, friends, co-workers and students he left behind. Goodbye, friend Ir.. Akhmad Zainal Abidin, M.Sc, Ph.D. Your knowledge and kindness will live on. And we will continue the struggle you left behind, for a cleaner earth, a more empowered society, and a more decent future for all of our children and grandchildren.

Yazid Bindar
Bandung, November 24, 2025