Sarjiyanto, S.E., MBA., Ph.D., CSRS., a lecturer in the Development Economics Study Program, Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS), has highlighted the importance of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) protection, particularly Geographical Indications (GI), as a strategic approach to strengthening regional signature products and promoting local economic self-reliance. The ideas were presented as part of his research on strengthening local economies through the protection of regional signature products.

Dr. Sarjiyanto explained that regional signature products are goods or services distinguished by unique characteristics that reflect the identity of a particular region. To achieve sustainable economic value, these products require protection through a well-structured ecosystem that includes the identification of locally based priority sectors, the development of supporting regulations, the provision of incentives, assistance with certification, and continuous product quality assurance. Regarding legal protection, he noted that regional signature products may be safeguarded through various forms of Intellectual Property Rights, including copyright, industrial design rights, trademarks, collective trademarks, the protection of Traditional Cultural Expressions (TCEs), and Geographical Indications.

According to Sarjiyanto, a Geographical Indication is a designation identifying a product originating from a specific geographical area whose reputation, quality, and distinctive characteristics are attributable to geographical factors, whether natural factors, human factors, or a combination of both. He further explained that applications for Geographical Indication protection may be submitted either by an institution representing communities within a particular geographical area or by provincial and regency/municipal governments. The application process begins with the preparation of a Description Document, which outlines the product’s characteristics, the influence of its geographical environment, historical background, production methods, and quality testing procedures as the basis for obtaining legal protection.

Sarjiyanto also emphasized that Geographical Indications provide significant benefits for local economic development by increasing product value, strengthening market competitiveness, empowering farmers, artisans, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), while also supporting the preservation of local culture and natural resources that define regional identity. He added that Geographical Indication protection remains valid as long as the reputation, quality, and distinctive characteristics that form the basis of the protection are maintained.

The findings of his research are presented alongside other speakers during the Socialization on the Importance of Intellectual Property Rights and Geographical Indications in Protecting Regional Signature Products, held on Wednesday, 8 July 2026, at the Konimex Hall, Bachtiar Effendi Building, FEB UNS. The event brought together representatives from the Karanganyar Regency Government, the Regional Office of the Ministry of Law of Central Java Province, the Institute for Research and Community Engagement (LPPM) UNS, business cluster representatives, MSME practitioners, and the Geographical Indication Protection Society (MPIG).

Through the dissemination of these research findings, stakeholders are expected to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting Intellectual Property Rights, particularly Geographical Indications, as a means of increasing the added value of regional signature products, preserving their authenticity, and strengthening the long-term competitiveness of local economies.

Sarjiyanto’s research also supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by strengthening the protection of regional signature products through intellectual property rights.