International Research Collaboration for Addressing Critical Global Challenges
Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM) has taken significant strides in international research collaboration, focusing on data-driven initiatives that support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through joint projects and groundbreaking research, UTeM is addressing critical global challenges such as food security, climate resilience, and sustainable education, demonstrating the university's commitment to sustainable development and impactful research.
UTeM researchers are partnering with globally recognized institutions, including Japan Science and Technology Agency, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (JAIST), and Technical University of Munich (TUM). These collaborations are part of UTeM’s Global Data Synergy Initiative (GDSI), aimed at using advanced data collection and analysis to address complex global issues that align with the SDGs.
UTeM Advances Climate Resilience with Japan through SATREPS Grant and Data Gathering Initiatives. UTeM is making significant strides in climate resilience research through international collaboration with Japan, supported by the Science and Technology Research Partnership for Sustainable Development (SATREPS) program. UTeM’s Regional 3D Real-Time Lightning Mapping System (RTL-3D) project, in partnership with Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) and Kindai University, Japan, focuses on real-time data gathering to understand lightning phenomena and enhance disaster mitigation strategies. Led by Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Riduan Ahmad, a specialist in lightning and electromagnetics, the RTL-3D project is developing a 3D lightning detection system that provides crucial data for predicting severe weather impacts. This project is a key element in UTeM’s broader data gathering initiatives, which aim to apply advanced modeling and real-time analysis to support vulnerable communities in facing climate-related risks. RTL-3D aligns with SDG 13: Climate Action by enhancing weather prediction and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals through international scientific collaboration. A UTeM representative noted, “Our work with Kindai University and SATREPS highlights UTeM’s commitment to climate resilience through data-driven, globally partnered research.” Through RTL-3D and other data gathering initiatives, UTeM is reinforcing its role as a leader in sustainable development and climate resilience on an international scale.
Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM) is advancing food security through the impactful work of Professor Dr. Syaiful Rizal Hamid, Dean of the Faculty of Technology Management and Technopreneurship, whose research emphasizes sustainable practices within food production, particularly in halal industries. Collaborating with international and national partners, Prof. Syaiful leads comprehensive data collection initiatives aimed at addressing food security and responsible consumption. His recent publication, Halal Food: Product Management for Small Medium Enterprises, provides actionable guidelines for SMEs to incorporate sustainability into their operations, enhancing compliance with both local and global standards. Prof. Syaiful’s work includes developing green protocols for halal food sectors and analyzing challenges in meeting food industry standards in developing regions. By integrating data insights from these collaborations, Prof. Syaiful’s team gains a broader understanding of sustainable development practices within the services sector. UTeM representatives emphasize that Prof. Syaiful’s research not only strengthens local food security initiatives but also demonstrates UTeM’s commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), setting a benchmark for sustainable practices in the food industry. Ensuring Food Security and Consumer Trust: Researchers from UTeM’s Faculty of Technology Management and Technopreneurship recently conducted a study on Supply Chain Management (SCM) and Consumer Purchasing Decisions in Melaka’s food sector. This study, led by Nurul Zarirah Nizam and Muhammad Saiful Nordin, examined the impact of SCM factors—such as inventory management, traceability, and customer service—on consumer behavior. The findings highlighted how effective SCM can meet consumer expectations for transparency, food safety, and sustainability, contributing to responsible production practices and informed consumer choices (SDG 12). The study further emphasized best practices in food safety, advocating for measures like pest control, adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and high cleanliness standards within supply chains. By aligning industry practices with consumer expectations, UTeM aims to foster safer and more sustainable practices in the food industry, addressing SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 12
These international collaborations illustrate UTeM's proactive approach to using data-driven insights for sustainable solutions. Through programs like the GDSI, UTeM is making tangible contributions to regional and global sustainability goals, reinforcing its position as a leader in socially responsible research and development. Through its active role in international research, UTeM continues to showcase its dedication to sustainable development, knowledge sharing, and global innovation. These efforts underline the university’s vision of fostering a research ecosystem that addresses today’s pressing issues while paving the way for a more sustainable future.
