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

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.

UiTM Kedah Branch Malaysia reignites intercultural spirit with virtual project with K.J. Somaiya College, Maharashtra, India

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 role of universities, governments, private organisations in digital inclusion to empower communities with AI skills

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.

Striving for international recognition, UNAIR welcomes UK-based assessment team

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.

UiTM embarks on an internationalisation project in Japan for academic exchanges and collaborations

A team of four university lecturers from UiTM Kedah Branch, Malaysia, embarked on an academic visit to Japan from 22 September 2024 until 1 October 2024 as part of an internationalisation project aimed at fostering cross-cultural academic exchanges and collaborations. The delegation, representing Special Interest Group – Public Interest Centre of Excellence (SIG PICE) and Academy of Language Studies, UiTM Kedah Branch, Malaysia, visited three key locations in Japan: Tokyo, Akita, and Osaka. The lecturers are Puan Syazliyati Ibrahim as the project leader, Puan Syakirah Mohammed, Puan Mazlifa Md Daud and Puan Robekhah Harun. The initiative was organised to seek inte ational linkages, strengthen institutional partnerships, and promote cultural understanding between their home university and Japanese counterparts.

The visit commenced in Tokyo, where the lecturers had a meeting with the officers at the Malaysian Embassy to Japan. The delegates were entertained by the officers who are Encik Anwar Udzir (Deputy Chief Mission), Encik Imran Yussof (Counsellor-Education) and Puan Nora Azlinda Jaapar (Counsellor). Since Tokyo serves as a hub for networking and setting the foundation for long-term collaborative projects, the university lecturers sought practical advice and suggestions on how to further strengthen imminent international linkages with other universities in Japan.

The next stop was Akita, a city renowned for its innovative approach to rural education and community development. The lecturers visited Akita International University, where they were introduced to unique programs designed to bridge the gap between urban and rural education, and they had the opportunity to observe immersive cultural experiences provided to intrnational students. The serene setting of Akita also allowed for meaningful exchanges on how regional universities can contribute to the global academic landscape. The university lecturers also presented their lectures on internationalisation efforts, critical thinking teaching approaches and community service projects to the post-graduate students from the Graduate School of Global Communication and Language. The lecturers were warmly welcomed by the International Collaboration Officer, Mr. Travis Senzaki and the Dean of Graduate School of Global Communication and Language, Professor Hiroki Uchida. A meeting was also held to discuss future collaborations between the two institutions.

The journey concluded in Osaka, a bustling city known for its vibrant academic and cultural scene. In Osaka, the lecturers attended a meeting with the representatives of Japan Da’wah Centre, Encik Zulkarnain Hasan Basri (President) and Cik Siti Zakira Imana Abdul Rahman (Staff).

The meeting explored collaborative opportunities in student exchange programmes especially inte ship opportunities for UiTM students. The meeting also discussed the impending Memorandum of Agreement to be signed by both organisations to promote the learning of Japanese language and Arabic language in Malaysia and Japan. The academic visit to Japan was hailed as a resounding success, with the lecturers expressing optimism about the potential for future partnerships and the enriched perspectives gained through the experience.

Having Fun with Science Program by UiTM nurtures students’ interest in STEM

The Faculty of Applied Sciences, UiTM Shah Alam, successfully hosted the program “Having Fun with Science,” which was organized by fifth- and sixth-semester students from the Bachelor of Applied Chemistry program at the School of Chemistry and Environment (PPKP) on July 8, 2023. The Malaysian Analytical Sciences Society (ANALIS) and Sekolah Kebangsaan Bandar Anggerik Shah Alam co-hosted the event.

This program was conducted to fulfill the requirements of the “Community Engagement” (CMT680) course under the SULAM program and aimed to support the government’s aspiration to promote Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programs among school students. The program was designed using an edutainment approach to encourage school student’s interest in science subjects. The Head of the School of Chemistry and Environment, UiTM Shah Alam, Associate Professor ChM Dr. Sabiha Hanim Saleh officiated the opening ceremony. Teachers from Sekolah Kebangsaan Bandar Anggerik and Dr. Sharil Fadli Mohamad Zamri, a representative from ANALIS also attended this program.

A total of 80 primary school students from around Shah Alam participated in various interactive activities that were carefully planned. Five engaging activities were conducted, including Scented Candle, Saponification – Soap Making, Rust/Corrosion, Acid and Alkali, and Elephant Toothpaste. The school students were divided into five groups and moved to different laboratories in the Faculty of Applied Sciences, where they were assisted by UiTM students acting as facilitators, providing explanations, demonstrations, and helping the students in the labs.

Furthermore, the involvement of UiTM lecturers and students in community service through knowledge sharing was realized through this program, which aims to enhance STEM literacy among primary school students. Additionally, this program is expected to increase the visibility of the Faculty of Applied Sciences at the community and national levels. According to the Program Advisor “Having Fun with Science,” Dr. Sabrina M. Yahya, the program provided school students with an opportunity to experience university life and offered exposure to both theoretical and practical science learning effectively and engagingly through the lab activities. The program is hoped to inspire students to develop a closer connection to science subjects and to aspire to further their education up to the university level.

Feedback from students and parents has been very encouraging. With the success of this program, it is hoped that more initiatives like this will be organized in the future to continue fostering interest in STEM fields among school students. The “Having Fun with Science” program concluded with a photo session and closing ceremony at 5:00 p.m., leaving sweet memories and valuable knowledge for all participants.

International community program (I-SULAM) themed Sustainable Engineering in Society 5.0 held in Thailand

The international community program (I-SULAM) themed “Sustainable Engineering In Society 5.0” was successfully held on May 29, 2024, and May 30, 2024, at Azizstan Foundation School, Pattani, Thailand. This program is based on SULAM (Service-Learning Malaysia University for Society), which is an innovative teaching and learning strategy or pedagogy that integrates course learning objectives with community service, involving students interacting with the community to solve local problems using the knowledge and skills they learn in class. This program is a collaboration between ICAN College of Engineering Studies UiTM Shah Alam, HEP College of Engineering Studies UiTM Shah Alam, lecturers, and students of the College of Engineering Studies UiTM Shah Alam.

There were 5 lecturers involved in this program: Professor Ir. Dr. Mohd Fadzil Bin Arshad and Dr. Norazlan Bin Khalid from the School of Civil Engineering, Ir. Dr. Wan Norsyafizan Binti W. Muhamad from the School of Electrical Engineering, Dr. Asdarina Binti Yahya from the School of Chemical Engineering, and Associate Professor Ir. Ts. Dr. Bulan Binti Abdullah from the School of Mechanical Engineering Studies. There were also 5 students from each of the school involved as participants in this I-SULAM. The I-SULAM program aims to provide explanations and share knowledge in the field of engineering with students of Azizstan Pattani School Thailand. It can have a very good impact on students and attract students’ interest in the field of engineering. This international interaction can also strengthen relationships between different countries, Malaysia and Thailand.

This program has received a warm welcome from teachers and students of Azizstan school. The program was conducted according to groups of Azistan school students who had been divided into several groups. Each group chose one engineering specialization of interest, either civil engineering, electrical engineering, chemical engineering, or mechanical engineering. Each school of engineering brought different project titles during the session with students at Azizstan school. Students from the School of Civil Engineering brought a project titled “Concrete Structure Integrity Assessment”. This project is a study and investigation of the integrity of concrete structures in school-owned buildings. A comprehensive explanation about the importance and methods of the study was implemented, such as visual inspection, concrete structure strength level testing (NDT Test), and data analysis. Next, students from the School of Chemical Engineering brought a project titled “Waste to Worth: Navigating Sustainability in Today’s World”.

This project is about how to turn waste disposal into something worthwhile, such as making soap from used oil and building bridges using used materials. Knowledge of chemical engineering is also used in relation to material mechanics, loading, pressure, and so on. Students from the School of Mechanical Engineering carried their project, “Renewable and Efficiency Energy”. This project explains the use of solar and air conditioning in using energy wisely. A more in-depth explanation about the advantages and disadvantages of solar was also given to Azizstan students. A practical session on how to handle and service air-conditioning was also implemented. Students from the School of Electrical Engineering presented the project “Empowering Students with IoT Driven Aquaponics System,” which is about an aquaponics project that can help communities in cultivating plants and fish even without agricultural land. This project is suitable for those who have limited agricultural land. The Azizstan school students who participated in this program were able to explore knowledge about each division of the engineering field. They also had the opportunity to conduct hands-on sessions with facilitators consisting of UiTM Shah Alam students and lecturers. There were also quiz activities provided to students to test their understanding of the engineering field. Each school of engineering studies had prepared prizes and project contributions to Azizstan school, Pattani Thailand for their willingness to receive the visit from UiTM and provide an opportunity to expand engineering knowledge to the students.

During the program, the delegation from UiTM also received a visit from the Thailand Education Department, to monitor the sharing session being conducted. This program ended successfully and had a positive impact on Azistan school students as well as students of the college of Engineering UiTM Shah Alam. There were several positive feedbacks from Azistan school students, namely that they admitted they were attracted to the field of engineering and wanted to continue their studies in engineering at the university level later and contribute to national development. They also felt excited because they could participate in an interesting program with international students. In conclusion, this program has had a very big impact on the College of Engineering UiTM Shah Alam and Azizstan Foundation School in collaborating to foster engineering knowledge and produce many graduates and students who are active in conducting international community activities.

Zero hunger: Innovation in smart solar-powered aquaponic monitoring system for the sustainable economy of B40 students at Sekolah Kebangsaan Padang Jawa

In an effort to boost the economy and foster entrepreneurship among thernB40 group at Sekolah Kebangsaan Padang Jawa (SKPJ), a smart solar-powered aquaponic system has been created to meet the government’s goal of doubling agricultural productivity through food production by 2030. With low incomes and rising costs of raw materials, including fish and vegetables, the B40 community at SKPJ is significantly burdened. Associate Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Suzi Seroja Sarnin, Ir. Dr. Wan Norsyafizan W. Mohamad, and final semester students from School or Electrical Engineering, UiTM, have worked together to develop this smart solar-powered aquaponic system, providing an effective solution to maintain the raw material supply chain. The headmaster of SKPJ, Mr. Salahuddin bin Nayan, along with the teachers, played a key role in the project’s success.

This innovative agricultural technique combines aquaculture with hydroponics and includes a monitoring system for water quality, fish and vegetable growth, automatic fish feeders, and water quantity control in fish tanks. Nutrient-rich water from the fish tanks is channeled to the plants and then returned to the fish tanks. The primary advantage of this system is its efficient water use, utilizing harvested rainwater and ensuring environmental sustainability. In addition to transferring agricultural technology to students, they are also trained to create platforms to market agricultural products digitally and analyze profits from the system. Aligned with the sustainability agenda and government direction, this project ensures local food security in line with Sustainable Development Goal 2, “Zero Hunger”. This smart agricultural innovation has a significant impact on income-generating opportunities and job self-sufficiency in food production, boosting the rural economy, particularly for the B40 groups.

The development of this system involves collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Fisheries in Selangor. The Fisheries Department provides fish fry as initial seeds and expertise in fish care and water quality management, while the Agriculture Department supplies vegetable seeds and hydroponic system care methods. This cooperation is essential to achieving collaborative knowledge transfer to the target group and leveraging agricultural technology expertise to drive the B40 group\’s economy.

Income generation through the aquaponic system includes three aspects: sales of aquaculture products, sales of hydroponic products, and sales of preserved fish products. Marketing of agricultural products can be done in various ways and through different channels, such as independently or through wholesalers or retailers. Hydroponic crops can be harvested once they reach the desired maturity level, typically in the fourth or fifth week, for vegetables like spinach, mustard greens, and lettuce. Aquaculture product marketing can be conducted using live sales, fresh sales, and frozen sales methods.

This project can significantly impact B40 students at SKPJ. Besides driving the economy of this group, the project provides early exposure to students to biology within the ecosystem, recognizing technology in agriculture, fish and plant cultivation methods in a closed-loop system, IoT technology, and more. The project offers students experience working on group science projects and early exposure to entrepreneurship and small-scale farming. The fish and vegetable yields can be supplied to hostels as a source of healthy and fresh food.

Moreover, the project promotes a green technology culture within the school community, as the aquaponic system produces healthy food and positively impacts the environment. Considering the government\’s goal to make Malaysia a carbon-neutral country by 2050, this project shows the university and school’s commitment to driving the nation toward food sustainability and eco-friendliness. It raises public awareness and encourages the use of green technology by incorporating solar panels as an energy source. It is hoped that such projects can be introduced to other schools, extending the objectives, benefits, and advantages to school cooperatives.

The smart aquaponic system designed at the school has great potential to contribute to the vision of zero hunger. Through this approach, the school promotes holistic education and practical basics and plays an active role in developing food sustainability within the community. The smart aquaponic system provides practical and comprehensive education about modern agriculture by learning how to plan, manage, and maintain the aquaponic system with the help of IoT technology. Thus, the smart aquaponic system at school is an investment in future education and a practical step towards achieving the goal of “zero hunger” globally. This is a tangible example of how education, technological innovation, and environmental awareness can collaborate to create positive change in our society.

‘Optical Communication in Daily Life’ talk on UFM radio

On 16 July 2024, Ir Dr. Nani Fadzlina Naim, a distinguished lecturer and researcher from the School of Electrical Engineering at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Malaysia, had the opportunity to share her insights on the topic “Optical Communication in Daily Life” through a special broadcast on Universiti Teknologi MARA’s UFM radio station, which transmits on the 93.6 MHz frequency.

During the engaging one-hour session, Dr. Nani Fadzlina delved into the various applications of optical communication technology that many might encounter in their daily routines. She highlighted how optical communication, which utilizes light to transmit information, plays a crucial role in modern telecommunications, including internet connectivity, medical imaging, and advanced security systems. The talk aimed to make listeners aware of the often-overlooked technological backbone that supports many conveniences of contemporary life.

Dr. Nani Fadzlina also emphasized the importance of optical communication in the development of smart cities, where high-speed and reliable data transmission is vital for efficient management and operation. She shared insights on how this technology enhances our ability to communicate quickly and effectively, thereby impacting sectors such as education, healthcare, and transportation.

The session was skillfully moderated by DJ Fiza, who facilitated a lively discussion and ensured that complex concepts were broken down into easily understandable segments for the audience. This talk was part of UFM’s ongoing effort to bring educational content to the community, highlighting the advancements and research being conducted at UiTM. It served as a platform to bridge the gap between academia and the public, showcasing how research in electrical engineering and optical communication directly benefits society.

Exploring sustainable futures: Empowering students with IoT-driven aquaponics system for STEM enthusiasts

A community program based on Service-Learning Malaysia University to Society (SULAM) which highlights the title “Empowering School Students with Smart IoT Aquaponic System”, was successfully held on June 14, 2024, at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Seri Pantai, Kuala Lumpur. This program is conducted in school to meet the requirements of SULAM where students need to engage directly with the community to make a meaningful and relevant contribution. The target community is among the B40 group school students of SMK Seri Pantai. In this program, facilitators from the School of Electrical Engineering (PKE), College of Engineering at UiTM introduced and taught school students about a smart aquaponic system utilizing Internet of Things (IoT) technology.

The smart aquaponic system with IoT monitoring combines fish farming and soil-less plant cultivation with advanced technology. The Internet of Things (IoT) sensors monitor crucial parameters such as temperature, PH, ammonia level, and light intensity in real time, send data to the cloud, and automatically control equipment. Users receive notifications if conditions are abnormal, and data analysis aids effective maintenance. This system enhances productivity and sustainability by optimizing resource use and reducing waste, while also supporting environmental sustainability through lower water usage and reduced carbon footprint, making it suitable for urban agriculture.

This program aims not only to impart knowledge but also to inspire school students to develop a greater interest in science and technology, especially in practical applications that can positively impact the community and the environment. Through hands-on activities and interactive sessions, the school students could see the significant potential of IoT technology in improving their daily lives.

This system is highly relevant and aligns with several key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as SDG 2: Zero Hunger by increasing sustainable and high-quality food production. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation are achieved through efficient water recycling, reducing water usage. The system also meets SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production by promoting efficient resource use and waste reduction. Lastly, it contributes to SDG 13: Climate Action by reducing the carbon footprint through the use of green technology and eco-friendly farming practices.

At the end of the program, an evaluation and reflection session are held where students share the experiences and knowledge they have gained throughout the program. The feedback received was overwhelmingly positive, with many students expressing an interest in delving into STEM fields and IoT technology. UiTM also handed over a prototype of an IoT-based smart aquaponic system to the school as a sign of cooperation.