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Tag: Malaysia

AU Researcher Advances PCOS Diagnosis

Posted on by Ajman University

Dr. Sulagna Dutta, Chair of Research and Assistant Professor in Physiology at the College of Medicine, Ajman University, has been honored with the prestigious Junior Innovator Award at the 2nd International Conference on Recent Innovations in Biological, Chemical & Clinical Sciences (RIBCCS 2025), held in Malaysia.

Jointly presented by Manipal University College Malaysia, Periyar University (India), and the Microbiologists Society India (MSI), the award recognizes young scientists for their impactful contributions to biomedical research. Dr. Dutta was recognized for her pioneering work in infertility research, particularly in the early diagnosis and risk stratification of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Her research integrates anthropometric, hormonal, and metabolic markers to develop predictive models that support earlier intervention and improved clinical outcomes in women’s health.

Dr. Dutta presented this body of work as an Invited Speaker at the RIBCCS 2025 conference, delivering a talk titled: “Predictive Risk Assessment Model for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Using Anthropometric, Hormonal, and Metabolic Parameters.”The presentation highlighted her AU-funded research aimed at developing diagnostic tools that could transform clinical practice in reproductive medicine.

“Receiving the Junior Innovator Award is both an honor and a responsibility,” said Dr. Dutta. “It affirms the significance of our work in addressing one of the most underdiagnosed conditions in women’s health. This recognition strengthens our commitment to advancing research that can lead to earlier diagnoses, more effective interventions, and ultimately, a better quality of life for women affected by infertility and PCOS.

PCOS affects 1 in 10 women globally, yet many remain undiagnosed for years. Dr. Dutta’s predictive models offer a promising pathway for earlier, more accurate screening, potentially improving fertility outcomes and long-term health interventions across the region.

Dr. Dutta’s international recognition builds on her impressive academic profile, which includes a #2 Expertscape ranking in Malaysia in reproductive health and her inclusion in the Top 2% of Scientists worldwide by Stanford University’s Global Ranking since 2020.

This achievement further reinforces Ajman University College of Medicine’s mission to advance evidence-based, community-centered healthcare education and research. Dr. Dutta’s ongoing work exemplifies the college’s commitment to addressing real-world healthcare challenges and enhancing the quality of life through scientific innovation.

Robot Explorer Challenge Sparks STEM

Posted on by nanifadzlina

Malaysia, August 2025 – Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), in collaboration with the IEEE Photonics Society Malaysia Chapter, has introduced the “STEM Robotic: My Robot Explorer Challenge” to ignite students’ passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Targeted at Year 4 and Year 5 students, the initiative combines theory and hands-on robot building to encourage creativity, problem-solving, and technological awareness. The program includes a Training of Trainers workshop (8 August 2025) for facilitators and a Robotics Challenge Day (21 August 2025) at SK Salak, featuring interactive sessions, robot development, and competitions.

Led by UiTM academics with support from IEEE Photonics Society, the initiative reflects a strong commitment to community engagement and sustainable STEM education. Students will be recognized with certificates, prizes, and robotic kits, fostering long-term interest in robotics and innovation.

USU and USM Study Homelessness

Posted on by Jemima Frieda Lumbantobing

Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU) through its Faculty of Social and Political Sciences strengthens its international research profile by collaborating with Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) in a cross border study. The project explores the survival strategies of homeless individuals and beggars in Medan, Indonesia and Penang, Malaysia. The research contributes to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 1 which focuses on the eradication of poverty in all its forms.

The study is led by Husni Thamrin, S.Sos., M.SP. from FISIP USU together with Dr. Paramjit Singh and Dr. Mohd Haizzan Bin Yahaya from USM. According to Husni Thamrin, “The collaboration between Universitas Sumatera Utara and Universiti Sains Malaysia has delivered a very positive impact. By combining the research strengths of both institutions we are able to produce studies that are more comprehensive and of international standard.”

The project investigates socio economic conditions that contribute to homelessness and observes how marginalized groups manage daily survival in challenging urban settings. The team applies qualitative methods including direct observation, in depth interviews and focus group discussions in both cities. The comparative approach allows the researchers to highlight differences in social support systems and policy responses between Medan and Penang.

The research outcomes are expected to inform evidence based policy that supports inclusive and sustainable solutions for vulnerable communities. Insights from the study will not only contribute to academic literature but also offer practical guidance for stakeholders in Indonesia and Malaysia. The project demonstrates how universities can provide knowledge that directly addresses global development priorities.

This initiative supports USU’s Strategic Plan 2020 to 2024 which positions the university as an internationally recognized institution. Collaboration with USM ranked second in Malaysia and 146th globally in the QS World University Rankings enhances the visibility of both institutions. The project is designed to produce high quality outputs including publications in international journals, conference proceedings, intellectual property rights and publicly available research resources.

Through this partnership USU and USM highlight the importance of regional academic collaboration in Southeast Asia. The study generates knowledge with direct impact on society and affirms USU’s commitment to research that matters for communities beyond national borders.

matters for communities beyond national borders.

UiTM x SKBA: KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER PROGRAM

Posted on by Shadatul Hanom (Ranking Champion FSG)

Ten students, accompanied by five teachers from Sekolah Kebangsaan Bandar Anggerik, Section 6, Shah Alam, participated in the Knowledge Transfer Program: Preparation of Organic Insect Repellent Spray (SOPES) at UiTM Shah Alam. This program was jointly organized by the School of Chemistry and Environment (PPKP) and the Research, Industry Networking and Alumni Office (PJIA) of the Faculty of Applied Sciences, UiTM Shah Alam. The participants of the program were given information, guidance and hands-on sessions with lecturers from the School of Chemistry and Environment, consisting of Dr. Sharil Fadli Mohamad Zamri, Dr. Sabrina M Yahya, Dr. Shadatul Hanom Rashid and Puan Norjanah Yuri. This one-day program exposed students and teachers to the introduction and effects of the use of pesticides on the environment and health. Insecticides are widely used in agriculture to control, prevent and destroy pests affecting agricultural production. However, excessive and uncontrolled use can cause various negative effects such as food poisoning in humans, complications to the skin, nerves and human body systems, pollution of clean water and air sources and harm to the environment. Innovations in reducing the risk of pesticide use have begun to receive everyone’s attention. One of them is the preparation of organic insect repellent sprays (SOPES), which have been produced by researchers at the Faculty of Applied Sciences, UiTM Shah Alam. SOPES was developed to provide effective protection to plants and homes without harming beneficial insects and is environmentally friendly and reduces the use of chemicals. The highlight of this program was a hands-on session in preparing organic sprays from natural ingredients as an alternative to insecticides. The students were taken to the Chemistry laboratory at the Faculty of Applied Sciences and taught to prepare the organic spray. The excitement of the students in the laboratory in trying to produce organic insect repellent spray products, can be seen. It is hoped that the experience and knowledge gained from this program can be practiced by students at school and in their daily lives and disseminated for the benefit of all in general.

Chula Collaborates with UCSI University

Posted on by Chulalongkorn University

Representatives from Chulalongkorn University visited UCSI University in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, for a collaborative meeting aimed at strengthening academic and research ties between the two institutions.

The meeting focused on potential student and faculty exchange programs, particularly in the fields of language and communication, as well as the formalization of institutional collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Another key area of discussion was the matching of researchers from both universities to foster joint research initiatives and deepen scholarly engagement.

 The Chulalongkorn University delegation was led by Professor Parichart Sthapitanonda, Vice President of Chulalongkorn University. She was joined by Asst. Prof. Dr. Ake Pattaratanakun, Chief Brand Officer; Asst. Prof. Dr. Sornnate Areesophonpichet; Asst. Prof. Dr. Jessada Salathong; Mr. Pokai Sriratanobhas; and other senior representatives of the university.

 On UCSI University’s side, the discussion was attended by several senior administrators, including Distinguished Professor Dr. Phang Siew Moi, FASc, FMBA (UK), Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Postgraduate); Professor Datuk Ts Dr. Rohana Binti Yusof, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Internationalisation, Kuala Lumpur campus); Mr. Richard Lim Ming Jye, Vice President of Group Corporate Affairs; Professor Ts Dr. Lee Ming Tatt, Director of the Office of Postgraduate Studies; Professor Dr. Zuraidah Mohd Don, Director of the Institute of Language; Dr. Yong Yu Lin, Research Manager at the Centre of Excellence for Research, Value Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CERVIE); Mr. Roland Chan Chih Chien, Director of the Global Engagement Office; along with other distinguished university leaders.

 This productive discussion reaffirmed the shared commitment of both institutions to fostering global partnerships, academic mobility, and impactful research collaboration, paving the way for a deeper and more formalized relationship in the near future.

 Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/250870/ 

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/250870/

UiTM–Industry Collaboration

Posted on by nanifadzlina

On 8 July 2025, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, an evaluation session for the Integrated Design Project (IDP630) was successfully conducted at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Shah Alam.

IDP630 is a compulsory course for engineering students that emphasizes real-world application of technical knowledge through industry-based problem solving. As part of the course, students are challenged to develop solutions to problems sourced directly from industry partners.

This semester, the problem statement was provided by Encik Muhammad Faiz bin Ibrahim, a representative from Tenaga Nasional Berhad Research (TNBR), during the initial briefing at the start of the semester. He also served as one of the evaluation panelists. Joining him was Dr. Naimah Mat Isa, a senior lecturer from the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, who contributed academic insight to the assessment process.

The class is led by PM Ir. Dr. Nani Fadzlian Naim, who coordinated the course and guided the students throughout the semester in developing their projects.

A total of five student projects were presented, each showcasing how theoretical knowledge and practical engineering skills can be integrated to address real industrial challenges. The session highlighted the students’ ability to apply classroom learning in a practical setting, strengthening the link between academia and industry.

The IDP630 course continues to be an excellent platform for enhancing industry-university collaboration, preparing students for future careers through hands-on experience and professional engagement.

UNHCR Through Eyes of Public Health Students

Posted on by drchenxw

On 20 May 2025, eighteen students from the Master of Public Health (MPH) programme at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) visited the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Malaysia Office in Kuala Lumpur. As part of the teaching and learning activities in the Population Health and Dynamics module, this visit aimed to deepen students’ understanding of the refugee situation in Malaysia, as well as the role of UNHCR in public health and humanitarian support.

The UNHCR, also known as the UN Refugee Agency, works globally to protect and assist refugees, asylum-seekers, stateless persons, and internally displaced persons. It plays a critical role in providing support to over 180,000 refugees and asylum seekers residing in Malaysia. Key activities carried out include registration and documentation of refugees and asylum seekers, determination of refugee status, provision of protection and legal aid, healthcare support through refugee clinics, education and livelihood programs, advocacy and awareness campaigns, as well as resettlement and voluntary repatriation efforts.

The visit was divided into two main segments: guided facility tour and comprehensive briefing session. These activities aimed to provide us with a quick overview of UNHCR’s setup and public health strategies in addressing refugee issues. During the facility tour, students visited the refugee clinic, where basic healthcare services are provided, the interview rooms handling individual case assessments and refugee status determination, the registration area for new arrivals, a cosy cafeteria, and a playground designated to accommodate refugees’ families, as well as the waiting area for visitors and registrants.

After the tour, we attended a detailed briefing session in the meeting room, led by Mr. Jason Yeo. He explained the functions and responsibilities of UNHCR Malaysia, particularly its role in public health advocacy and support. The content covered the challenges faced by refugees during various phases of migration, public health threats within refugee communities, and coordinated efforts in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, including contact tracing for infectious diseases, vaccination, and access to healthcare.

The visit was eye-opening and highlighted the often-invisible challenges faced by refugees in Malaysia. As future public health professionals, the experience emphasised the importance of compassionate, inclusive policies and culturally sensitive healthcare practices. This visit has inspired public health postgraduate students to continue their advocacy for displaced communities and to explore future opportunities to make meaningful contributions to humanitarian efforts.

The visit concluded with a group photo session. It was a memorable and enriching afternoon that complemented the academic learning with real-world context and perspective.

UMT Blue Economy and Sustainability Vision

Posted on by Mohd Fadzil Akhir

UMT’s Rise in Global Rankings Reflects Malaysia’s Blue Economy and Sustainability Vision

Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) proudly enters the 801–850 band in the QS World University Rankings 2026, marking a significant achievement for one of Malaysia’s youngest and medium-sized universities. This milestone is more than just a number—it is a testament to UMT’s strategic focus, impactful research, and its commitment to championing Malaysia’s sustainability agenda.

UMT’s success story is a reflection of its unwavering dedication to areas that are crucial not just to Malaysia but to the world: ocean sustainability, marine science, and the Blue Economy. While many universities in the country have carved out a place in the rankings through sheer scale or breadth, UMT has achieved this through depth, niche excellence, and purpose-driven innovation.

A University Anchored in Purpose

Founded with a clear mandate to serve the marine and aquatic sectors, UMT has evolved into a dynamic institution leading Malaysia’s efforts in coastal and ocean sustainability. Its rise in global rankings reflects not only academic and research quality but also real-world impact. UMT’s researchers are not just publishing in top journals—they are providing solutions to real marine and environmental challenges, including coastal erosion, fisheries food security, climate change impacts, and ocean governance.

Powering Malaysia’s Blue Economy

As a national leader in Blue Economy research and innovation, UMT has strategically aligned itself with global sustainable development goals. Its initiatives support responsible ocean resource use, marine biodiversity conservation, and sustainable fisheries. Through platforms like the Blue Economy Advancement Centre (BEACON), Centre of Ocean Governance and dedicated Ocean Climate Change national research program, UMT is contributing to national resilience and environmental preparedness.

UMT’s work does not stop at the shoreline. With strengths in aquaculture, biotechnology, marine renewable energy, and environmental economics, the university is building knowledge and technologies that support sustainable livelihoods, especially for coastal and island communities. This includes innovations in offshore aquaculture systems, blue carbon strategies, and marine spatial planning tools that inform national policies.

Policy, Partnership and People

What sets UMT apart is its active engagement in shaping national policy. Its Ocean Governance and Marine Policy team works closely with ministries and government agencies to provide evidence-based advice and scientific insights that influence decision-making at the highest levels. Whether advising on Malaysia’s climate adaptation strategies or contributing to international conventions under UNESCO and the UN Decade of Ocean Science, UMT serves as a bridge between science and policy.

As a medium-sized institution, UMT is agile, collaborative, and community-driven. This has allowed it to build meaningful partnerships with stakeholders—from fishermen cooperatives to global research networks—amplifying its impact well beyond its size.

Why This Ranking Matters

In a global higher education landscape often dominated by large and long-established universities, UMT’s presence in the QS World University Rankings 2026 sends a powerful message: excellence can come from focus, commitment, and relevance. For Malaysia, UMT’s rise is symbolic of the country’s growing role in championing ocean sustainability and building a resilient, knowledge-based economy. In a time when the world is looking to the ocean for climate solutions, sustainable food, and renewable energy, UMT stands as Malaysia’s beacon of innovation in the realm of sustainability.

Prof. Dr. Mohd Fadzil Akhir, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Strategy, Performance & Corporate), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu

 

 

The International Community Program with UiTM Shah Alam and Universitas Warmadewa: Foodology – Food Arcade and Security

Posted on by Shadatul Hanom (Ranking Champion FSG)

The international community program FOODOLOGY: FOOD ARCADE AND SECURITY was successfully held on December 25-30, 2023, at the Faculty of Agriculture, Warmadewa University (UNWAR), Indonesia. This program is an initiative designed to carry out Service Learning Malaysia-University For Society (SULAM) activities for the Community Engagement (CMT680) and Food Processing Technology (FST548) subjects.

Two dedicated lecturers Ts Dr. Aida Firdaus Muhammad Nurul Azmi and Dr. Sharil Fadli Mohamad Zamri from the School of Industrial Technology and School of Chemistry and Environment, Faculty of Applied Sciences (FSG), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Shah Alam, along with 17 students from the Bachelor of Science (Hons.) Food Science and Technology and Bachelor of Science (Hons.) Applied Chemistry programs at FSG embarked on an amazing journey through research and collaboration activities, community service and industrial visits. This program aims to provide an opportunity for students from both universities to apply knowledge and gain new insights in food processing and green product development technology.

The program commenced with an exchange of ideas through research collaboration discussion regarding the possible joint research projects, research publications, and student exchanges in the areas of food technology and agricultural waste recycling between the Faculty of Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, and the Faculty of Agriculture, Warmadewa University. Furthermore, both universities addressed the work schedule and contents of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) comprising industrial visits, community service, and seminar programs. UiTM students and lecturers also received a tour around the faculty, centers of excellence, and research laboratories at the Faculty of Agriculture, Warmadewa University.

In a UiTM-UNWAR Food Technology Seminar, students from both universities showcase the outcomes of their final-year projects in their respective fields. At the end of the session, students and lecturers from both universities will share ideas and perspectives to advance their research. The highlight of this program is a community activity involving the farmers from Desa Ban, Kubu, Karangasem, Bali, Indonesia. Here, students from the Faculty of Applied Sciences, UiTM have taught the Tani Dharma Santi Women Community in Desa Baru, Marga, Tabanan, Bali, Indonesia about interesting food processing techniques that can be applied to generate income. Additionally, the community was trained to produce non-toxic insect-repellent spray to protect their crops. The program aims to encourage the use of these insect repellents in the agricultural activities of this community, as it is a simple and effective technique that can enhance crop productivity and save costs. Various interactive and engaging activities such as talks, exhibitions, demonstrations, informational sessions, and knowledge sharing on food science and technology, as well as environmental sustainability were carried out to provide exposure and awareness and to assist the local community.

During the last day of the program, an industrial visit was conducted to PT. Bali Maya Permai Food Canning Industry. It is a food processing plant where the students and lecturers observe and learn about the operations and management of food within the facility. In conclusion, the international community program strengthened relations between the Faculty of Applied Sciences, UiTM Shah Alam, and the Faculty of Agriculture, Warmadewa University, laying the groundwork for future collaborations in promoting sustainability in higher education.

UTAR publishes groundbreaking study on global academic promotion policies

Posted on by Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR)

UTAR reached a significant milestone on 23 January 2025 when Assoc Prof Ir Dr Lim Boon Han and his research team successfully published a comprehensive study on academic promotion policies in Nature—the world’s top-ranked scientific journal, boasting an impact factor of 50.5. This achievement cements UTAR’s position in the global research landscape and underscores its capacity to contribute to high-impact scholarly discussions.

Dr Lim collaborated closely with Prof Dr Chong Kok Keong, a distinguished senior professor at UTAR, to co-author one of the most in-depth analyses of global academic promotion policies ever conducted. Their research urges institutions to move beyond traditional research metrics and recognize contributions in education, leadership, and real-world applications of scholarly work.

This publication marks a distinction for a Malaysian institution—it is the first Malaysia-based first-authored Nature research paper since 2015. The achievement highlights UTAR’s growing research influence and Malaysia’s ability to contribute meaningfully to globally relevant scientific discussions.

In collaboration with the Global Young Academy (GYA), Dr Lim and his team conducted an extensive analysis of 190 academic institutions and 58 government agencies across 121 countries. Their research revealed significant disparities in faculty promotion policies worldwide.

Key findings include:

High-income countries emphasize research visibility, mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Middle-income nations still prioritize number of publications, journal impact factor and citation count as primary promotion criteria.
These insights highlight the urgent need for a more inclusive approach to faculty evaluation. The study encourages institutions to reconsider their assessment frameworks and adopt broader, more equitable criteria for academic promotions.

Since its publication, the study has sparked discussions in global academic circles, with coverage in Nature, Science, Times Higher Education, the Global Young Academy, and other platforms. It has already influenced institutions worldwide to reassess their promotion policies, fostering a dialogue on fairer and more comprehensive faculty evaluation criteria.

Dr Lim and his team remain committed to engaging with policymakers, university administrators, and funding agencies to advocate for meaningful reforms in faculty assessment.

This Nature publication reinforces UTAR’s reputation as a research-driven university and signals Malaysia’s growing competitiveness in the global academic landscape. As the country strives to strengthen its research ecosystem, achievements like this solidify Malaysia’s position as a hub for high-impact scientific contributions.

For more details on the research, visit: Nature article.