Tag: Malaysia

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.

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.

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.

The three-month virtual intercultural project between the students of UiTM Kedah Branch, Malaysia, and K.J. Somaiya College, Maharashtra, India, was an initiative aimed at fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. Through structured online interactions, students from both institutions had the opportunity to exchange knowledge, perspectives, and experiences in online webinars held from 17 October 2024 until 16 January 2025. The project was designed to enhance global awareness and communication skills while encouraging meaningful discussions on cultural diversity, education, and societal values. By leveraging digital platforms, participants could overcome geographical barriers and build connections that transcended national borders. This project was the second series of the Window to the Borderless World project, which was started in 2021, hence it was called Window to the Borderless World or WBW 2.0.

One of the key highlights of the project was the interactive learning experience that allowed students to engage in dialogue on various topics from both countries, including prominent figures, tourist spots, education systems, transportation, sports achievements, folktales, traditional games and famous buildings. Group discussions, presentations, and quizzes that were held enabled students to gain insights into each other’s cultural backgrounds. This exchange was instrumental in breaking stereotypes and promoting a deeper appreciation of cultural nuances.

Beyond cultural exchange, the project also facilitated the development of essential 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, teamwork, and digital literacy. Students were required to work in teams to complete their presentations, create multimedia presentations, and contribute to the gamification aspect of the project by having quiz sessions. This hands-on approach to learning encouraged adaptability and problem-solving, preparing participants for future global interactions in academic and professional settings. The use of technology, including video conferencing, social media, and learning management systems, played a crucial role in ensuring seamless communication and engagement.

The project culminated in a wonderful closing ceremony on 16 January 2025 with cultural and mode performances by participants from both institutions. In the closing ceremony speeches, Puan Syazliyati Ibrahim, the co-chair of the project from the Academy of Language Studies, UiTM Kedah Branch, Malaysia expressed that, “Window to the Borderless World 2.0 has brought new lessons and experiences to the students from both institutions. No matter how far the distance, they can close the gap by communicating and understanding one another. That’s how we can live peacefully.” Dr. Ravindra Jadhav, the co-chair from K.J Somaiya College, India said that “this program has not only helped to understand the cultures of the two countries but has also brought people closer together. On this occasion, I appeal on the global platform that war is not an option, but peace is the only option that can save the world.” The Head of the Academy of Language Studies, UiTM Kedah Branch, Malaysia, Encik Azlan Abdul Rahman shared that “Window to the Borderless World 2.0 is not only a medium to highlight the similarities and differences between the two worlds of India and Malaysia but also serves as a platform for sharing knowledge and talents among students from both countries.”

This project involved 130 Malaysia students from the classes taught by Puan Syazliyati Ibrahim, Puan Norlizawati Md. Tahir and Puan Asni Syahriza Abu Hassan who made up the team from UiTM Kedah Branch, Malaysia, and this team is also facilitated by Puan Zawani Badri as the graphic designer. From India, 109 students who were involved in the Student Mentoring Project under the supervision of Dr. Ravindra Jadhav were the ones who joined this WBW 2.0 project. Other lecturers from the Academy of Language Studies, UiTM Kedah Branch – Puan Robekhah Harun, Dr. Nur Syazwanie Mansor, Puan Sharifah Syakila Syed Shaharuddin, Puan Syakirah Mohammed, Encik Azlan Abdul Rahman and Puan Nor Aslah Adzmi, as well as the class lecturers and Puan Zawani Badri also joined as facilitators during the webinars. The lecturers from K.J Somaiya College who joined as webinar facilitators are Prof. Vijay Khandizod, Prof. Vijay Somase, Dr. Sanjay Argade, Prof. Urmila Hon and Ms. Nupur Autade as well as Dr. Ravindra Jadhav himself. What was more impressive was the closing ceremony was emceed superbly well only by the students from both institutions. They are Mr Faiz Aditia bin Mohd. Hanis and Nur-Itqan Khadijah binti Osny Shu-Harry from UiTM Kedah Branch as well as Miss Pratiksha Raktate and Miss Suchitra Ghadage from K.J Somaiya College.

The virtual intercultural project concluded with the students answering a questionnaire and reflections, allowing students to share their experiences and takeaways. Many participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to lea from their peers in another country and develop a broader worldview. The initiative successfully achieved its goal of fostering inte ational friendship, mutual respect, and cross-cultural understanding. Moving forward, similar projects can continue to bridge cultural gaps and create a more interconnected global community, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in an increasingly digital and multicultural world.

The faster growth of artificial intelligence (AI) technology is impacting numerous areas of society by shaping career prospects and accelerating technological advancement along with the development of digital skills. An initiative led by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), in collaboration with the Biji-biji Initiative and strategic partners, has launched the MCMC Microsoft AI TEACH programme in Negeri Sembilan to prepare local communities for the evolving landscape. The programme aims to build AI skills and digital literacy among the people of Negeri Sembilan while supporting the goals of the Negeri Sembilan Digital Economy Plan 2027.

The initiative receives key support from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Negeri Sembilan through its activities spanning the Seremban and Kuala Pilah campuses. UiTM is positioning itself as a \”Globally Renowned, Locally Rooted\” to lead knowledge transfer and capacity development in the surrounding community based on its vision. With this programme, the university demonstrates its commitment to the UiTM2025 framework, which encompasses four key impact areas: technological innovation and talent development, as well as cultural transformation and economic growth. UiTM is building AI training to support the development of advanced technologies and provide local members with the skills needed to succeed in digital markets.

The two-day MCMC Microsoft AI TEACH programme was conducted on 25 and 26 January 2025 at UiTM Negeri Sembilan (Seremban and Kuala Pilah campuses) and over 60 National Information Dissemination Centres (NADIs) across the state. The widespread implementation of this training initiative will facilitate access to artificial intelligence, providing optimal support to disadvantaged groups. The programme provides important resources for career advancement through its combined teaching method of core AI ideas and ethical standards along with real-world skills such as resume writing and portfolio creation.

The programme promotes broader societal innovation as it goes beyond improving individual skills. The programme closes digital knowledge gaps to create an educational environment in which all people, regardless of their background, have access to technological progress. This program follows the quintuple helix model, bringing together UiTM, the government, the private sector, alumni, and the community. This is demonstrated through its collaboration with MCMC as the government regulator, private sector partners Biji-Biji Initiative and Microsoft, as well as UiTM and its alumni. These reciprocal partnerships demonstrate that educational institutions and government agencies, together with private interests, are developing strong and sustainable improvements for local communities.

These initiatives have far-reaching economic impacts that are remarkable. Equipping the workforce with digital skills and AI competencies is critical as industry needs continue to evolve with advancing digital and AI technologies. The MCMC Microsoft AI TEACH programme boosts economic performance through job creation and the ability to develop a workforce that can respond well to technological upheavals. Malaysia\’s move towards a digitally focused economy is supported by these programmes as they prepare the population for future job markets while enabling them to contribute to improving the industry.

This programme is an example of a comprehensive digital inclusion strategy that relies on the essential involvement of academia and government agencies as well as private organisations to help communities empower themselves. These initiatives are creating a technologically literate and inclusive society through their work to promote AI literacy, eliminate the digital divide, and develop career preparation. Education and strategic partnerships will also be critical to digital inclusion in the coming technological revolution, as they prevent a community from being left unattended.

The Faculty of Science and Technology Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) recently welcomed accreditation assessors from the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) as part of an international accreditation site visit for its Chemistry Undergraduate and Master’s programs. The visit, held on Monday, February 10, 2025, marks a crucial step in UNAIR’s efforts to enhance global recognition in the field of chemistry.

The assessment was attended by several key university and faculty leaders, including Vice Rector for Academic, Student Affairs, and Alumni Affairs Prof. Dr. Bambang Sektiari Lukiswanto, DEA, Drh; Vice Rector for Research, Innovation, and Community Development Prof. Dr. Ni Nyoman Tri Puspaningsih, MSi; and Vice Rector for Resources Prof. Dr. Muhammad Madyan, SE, MSi, MFin.

Also in attendance were Prof. Sukardiman, Apt, MS (Director of Academic Affairs UNAIR), Prof. Nurul Barizah, SH, LLM, PhD (Chair of UNAIR’s Quality Assurance Board), and Prof. Miratul Khasanah, MSi (Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology).

Strengthening global academic networks
During the visit, RSC assessor Prof. Zana Binti Abdullah emphasized that the accreditation process aims to connect UNAIR’s chemistry programs with global academic networks.

“As assessors, our goal is to evaluate and strengthen the connectivity of chemistry programs worldwide. The RSC accreditation follows the UK education system, and we hope it will further establish UNAIR’s reputation within the international academic community,” she stated.

She also praised UNAIR’s thorough preparation for the accreditation process, noting that its proactive approach reflects a strong commitment to maintaining educational standards at a global level.

Accreditation visit and expectations
According to Prof. Nurul Barizah, Chair of UNAIR’s Quality Assurance Board, the RSC visit includes several key stages. “Over the next two days, assessors will engage in discussions with university and faculty representatives to verify the alignment between the submitted System Evaluation Report and actual conditions on campus. The visit will also involve inspections of laboratories and supporting facilities, along with discussion sessions with faculty members, students, and support units,” she explained.

Prof. Barizah further underscored that international accreditation is a strategic step toward strengthening UNAIR’s global academic standing.

“Our vision is to position UNAIR at the international level. If these two chemistry programs secure RSC accreditation, UNAIR’s education quality will be on par with other internationally accredited institutions, particularly those in the UK,” she added.

To meet accreditation requirements, UNAIR’s Chemistry Department has prepared extensive documentation, including curriculum restructuring based on Outcome-Based Education (OBE), a Self-Assessment Report, course syllabi, lecture modules, and laboratory guidelines.

“We are optimistic that this site visit will yield positive results, and by May, we hope to receive official accreditation from the Royal Society of Chemistry for both our undergraduate and graduate Chemistry programs,” she concluded.