Dadang's journey in the field of international relations and conservation has been shaped by his extensive academic and professional background. He holds a Bachelor's degree in International Relations from Mulawarman University in Indonesia and a Master's degree in the same field from Gadjah Mada University. Since 2020, he has been pursuing his Doctor of Philosophy in Southeast Asian Studies at the National University of Singapore, focusing on the history and ethnography of the local community, the so-called Sea People of the Derawan Archipelago—the Bajau and Tausug People.
His career began as a lecturer and researcher at Mulawarman University, where he later served as the Special Staff to the Vice-Rector for General Affairs, Finance, and Human Resources. His passion for academic excellence led him to become the Editor-in-Chief of the Interdependence Journal of International Studies, followed by his current role as a reviewer at the BHUVANA: Journal of Global Studies.
Since 2023, Dadang has led conservation initiatives as the Project Director for the Derawan Archipelago under Global Conservation. His work focuses on developing sustainable marine tourism, protecting marine ecosystems, and addressing illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing in the region. He collaborates closely with local communities, researchers, government agencies, and law enforcement to ensure the long-term preservation of East Kalimantan's rich marine biodiversity.
Dadang has published several books and journal articles on topics ranging from multi-track diplomacy to contemporary global issues and marine ecosystems. His research on eco-tourism and sustainable development in Indonesia, especially in the Derawan Archipelago, has contributed to a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in promoting conservation in the heart of the Coral Triangle—in other words, the Derawan Archipelago.