FKK UiTM Commemorates Malaysian National Day

In conjunction with Malaysia’s 68th National Day, the Faculty of Chemical Engineering (FKK), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) organised a special Independence Lecture on 27th August 2025. Themed “Mental Merdeka, Keluarga Bahagia: Akar Sebuah Negara Sejahtera” (Independent Mind, Happy Family: The Root of a Prosperous Nation), the lecture reflected on the values of freedom, unity, and social harmony as the foundation of national well-being.

The event, drew academics, staff, and students into a reflective discourse on the meaning of independence in today’s society. The keynote speaker, Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Mohd Nor Mamat from the Academy of Contemporary Islamic Studies (ACIS), emphasised the importance of nurturing a liberated mindset alongside strong family values as vital pillars in sustaining national prosperity and resilience.

The lecture highlighted how intellectual freedom, cultural identity, and social cohesion contribute not only to the nation’s progress but also to the shaping of responsible and empowered citizens. By linking the spirit of independence to contemporary challenges, Dr. Mohd Nor highlighted the role of universities as platforms for fostering critical thought, moral responsibility, and collective identity among the younger generation.

This event served as the highlight of its National Day celebration month, reinforcing FKK’s commitment to cultivating patriotic values and holistic development among its academic community. Through such initiatives, UiTM continues to inspire its students and staff to carry forward the spirit of Merdeka in both personal and professional spheres, aligning with the national aspiration of Malaysia Madani.

The event both honoured Malaysia’s independence and reinforced UiTM’s key role in shaping the nation’s intellectual progress and cultural identity.

FDP & tNavigator Workshop by UiTM

Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), through its Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Student Chapter, successfully organized the FDP Workshop: Reservoir Modeling & tNavigator Demonstration on 25 April 2025 at the College of Engineering. The initiative brought together 42 oil and gas engineering students for a focused engagement on reservoir modeling and digital simulation tools, reinforcing UiTM’s commitment to bridging academic learning with industry practice.

The workshop introduced participants to the fundamentals of Field Development Planning (FDP), emphasizing the integration of technical and economic parameters in reservoir evaluation. A key highlight was the demonstration of tNavigator, a high-performance simulation software widely adopted in the oil and gas sector. Students gained firsthand exposure to its capabilities in dynamic modeling, scenario analysis, and decision-making support—skills increasingly demanded in modern energy operations.

Beyond technical enrichment, the program served as a platform to cultivate essential professional competencies. Students actively participated in discussions, collaborative exercises, and Q&A sessions with industry experts, enhancing their communication, leadership, and critical thinking abilities. These soft skills are vital for navigating multidisciplinary challenges in upstream energy environments.

The event also fostered meaningful academic-industry linkages, allowing students to engage directly with practitioners and explore real-world applications of their coursework. Feedback from participants highlighted the value of such experiential learning, with recommendations to incorporate more hands-on group simulations in future sessions to deepen applied understanding.

Overall, the workshop exemplified UiTM’s strategic approach to producing industry-ready graduates equipped with both technical acumen and professional agility. By aligning curriculum exposure with evolving sectoral needs, UiTM continues to position its engineering talent at the forefront of Malaysia’s energy transformation.

ISCALE 2025 : UiTM and Akashi College,Japan

Shah Alam, Malaysia, September 2025 – The International Sustainable Coastal and Environmental Leadership Program 2025 (ISCALE2025) has set a new benchmark for academic collaboration and experiential learning. Hosted by UiTM Global in partnership with the National Institute of Technology, Akashi College, Japan, the program brought together four dynamic Japanese students for a two-week summer internship that combined academic rigor, cultural immersion, and environmental leadership training.

Spanning from August 17 to 31, 2025, ISCALE2025 was meticulously designed under the leadership of AP Dr. Marfiah Ab. Wahid, supported by a dedicated team comprising Ts. Dr. Nurul Rabitah Daud, Ts. Dr. Azlinda Saadon, Ir. Dr. Nur Syahiza Zainuddin, Ts. Dr. Nurhidayah Hamzah, and Ts. Dr. Irma Noorazurah Mohamad. The program’s success was further strengthened by the collaboration of the International Student Development team at UiTM Global and the industry partner Landasan Lumayan Sdn. Bhd. This smart partnership between UiTM and the National Institute of Technology, Akashi College, stands as a model of how academic institutions and industry can unite across borders to bridge knowledge, culture, and innovation for real-world impact.

Learning Beyond Borders

The program featured masterclasses on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), technical workshops on plastic waste management, microplastic analysis, river waste analysis, and the use of VR360 technology for environmental storytelling. Participants also engaged in eco-printing workshops using natural dyes and delivered collaborative SDG presentations—a testament to the program’s emphasis on applied learning and creative problem-solving.

Cultural Exchange Meets Environmental Science

Beyond the labs and workshops, students experienced Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage through traditional music and dance, Malaysian games, and heritage tours across Melaka, Putrajaya, and Kuala Lumpur. Guided mangrove explorations and river monitoring activities provided hands-on environmental education, connecting classroom concepts to real-world ecosystems.

A Model for Future Global Programs

As Assistant Vice-Chancellor (International) Associate Prof. Datin Dr. Norazida Mohamed emphasized, “This partnership shows how universities can work hand-in-hand to nurture future leaders who are not only academically strong but also globally aware and socially responsible.”

The farewell ceremony showcased cross-cultural appreciation, with Malaysian and Japanese students exchanging cultural performances, origami art, and heartfelt reflections. For UiTM and Akashi College, ISCALE2025 was more than a summer program—it was a model of international academic collaboration empowering the next generation of global environmental leaders.

With its success, ISCALE2025 paves the way for future collaborations between UiTM and Akashi College, reaffirming the role of smart partnerships in driving sustainable education and research.

AU Researcher Advances PCOS Diagnosis

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

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

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

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

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 MoiFASc, 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

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

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.