USM PENANG, 24 November 2024 – The USM 62nd Convocation Ceremony resumes this afternoon with the Eleventh Session at the nostalgic Dewan Tuanku Syed Putra (DTSP) here.

Some 690 graduands who had undergone their studies in Distance Education (Science); Distance Education (Arts); Housing, Building and Planning; and Pharmaceutical Sciences received their scrolls from the USM Pro-Chancellor, Tan Sri Datuk Dr. Zulkefli A. Hassan, who presided over the Eleventh Session.

“As graduands at the postgraduate and undergraduate levels and coming from various fields, all of you have been endowed with the necessary knowledge and skills that could be utilised in facing the real world that is filled with both opportunities and challenges,” said Zulkefli.

“Don’t ever doubt your value and self-worth, as the world needs individuals who can think critically, do their tasks with integrity, and with quality, as all of you represent.

“Graduands from the School of Housing, Building, and Planning would have the responsibility of providing sustainable and comfortable housing for every community, and to ensure wellbeing of all.

“Graduands of Science and Pharmaceutical Sciences have been well-equipped with the knowledge to understand the natural world and the world of medicine, and play the role to bring progress to the health sector.

“The graduands of Arts, would not only assist in safeguarding heritage and culture, but also in nurturing critical thinking practices in society, that would contribute to social and intellectual growth,” he said further.

He added, “In front of you now lies various opportunities and challenges. As graduands who have been ‘prepped’ with the necessary knowledge and experience, now is the time to face the world head on.”

“Success does not come on a silver platter; it demands continuous effort and the courage to rise after encountering a failure. Education is a lifelong experience. In a world that is constantly changing, we need to have the determination and desire to continue acquiring knowledge and seeking new opportunities. Success is a journey, and you are now on the apex of that journey,” he stressed.

Zulkefli continued, “You are now stepping out with a degree that not only symbolises your academic achievements, but also reflects the strength of your character. You have proven that with hard work, perseverance and determination, there is no obstacle that you cannot overcome. Now, as an alumni member of Universiti Sains Malaysia, you carry the name of your ‘alma mater’ wherever you go.”

He further said, “Keep in mind to take each step forward and take it as an opportunity to make an impact, to build meaningful connections, and to make use of the knowledge that you have gained to be beneficial to everyone. We at Universiti Sains Malaysia are truly proud of your achievement and would continue to pray for everyone’s success in all aspects of life.”

“As you move ahead in life, bring along with you good universal values, such as integrity, diligence and excellence which have been nurtured during your academic journey.

“Being able to earn an academic degree is a manifestation of your amazing IQ level. But to achieve success in your career, it would require you to also learn, understand and practice three other types of Intelligence. They are, EQ (Emotional Quotient/Intelligence), CQ (Contextual Quotient/Intelligence), and if possible, PQ (Physical Quotient/Intelligence) too,” he said.  

In ending his speech, Zulkefli said, “Once again, CONGRATULATIONS to all! You have DONE WELL. I pray that you will find success and achieve your dreams in the future. Thank you.”

Also present at the Eleventh Session were USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed; member of USM Board of Governors; Deputy Vice-Chancellors; members of USM Senate; and key university officials.

The 62nd USM Convocation Ceremony is now commencing at the USM Main Campus from 19-26 November 2024.

Text: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin/Photo: MPRC USM

USM PENANG, 6 August 2024 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), through the School of Educational Studies (PPIP), in collaboration with the GCC-USM and the Asia-Pacific Centre of Education for International Understanding (APCEIU), organised the 2^nd GCC International Conference on Global Citizenship Education 2024 from 6 – 8 August 2024.

The conference, held at the USM Main Campus, was jointly-organised with the aim to achieve several key objectives pertaining to the importance of Global Citizenship Education (GCED).

It provides a platform for researchers and academics to share their latest findings and insights, facilitate networking opportunities for participants to connect with peers and potential collaborators, and offer avenues for wider dissemination of research outcomes through journal publications.

Additionally, the conference served as a benchmark for evaluating current research in GCED, fostering collaboration and advancing the impact globally.

The conference attracted significant interest from participants across Malaysia, Japan, Ghana, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines, with 90 presenters selected to share their research.

USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed officiated the opening ceremony earlier today.

He said, “The theme of this conference, “Building Inclusive Communities Through Global Citizenship Education,” emphasises the importance of GCED in creating a more sustainable and harmonious world.”

“I believe this conference serves as a dynamic platform for promoting global collaboration and citizenship, and in building a more inclusive society, regardless of one’s background and nationality,” he added.

“GCED plays a crucial role in shaping the minds of future generations, therefore we need to equip our youth with the knowledge, skills, and values required to become active global citizens,” stressed the Vice-Chancellor.

According to the Director of APCEIU, Dr. Hyun Mook Lim, "A persistent gap exists between policy and practice, and integrating GCED into the national curriculum does not ensure its effective implementation.”

“Often, GCED is applied inadequately or superficially, highlighting a critical need for enhancing teachers' capacity, particularly in understanding and applying GCED concepts and pedagogy," stated Hyun.

In a fitting conclusion to the speech, he quoted a poignant saying: "All kinds of little people doing little acts in little ways in little places have changed the world."

This impactful statement highlighted the belief that even small efforts can drive significant global change, reinforcing the core principles of Global Citizenship Education.

The 2nd GCC International Conference on Global Citizenship Education features two prominent keynote speakers.

Hyun discussed the critical role of Global Citizenship Education in tackling global challenges such as inequality and ecological destruction.

Another keynote speaker, Professor Dato’ Dr. Sivamurugan Pandian, who lectures at the USM School of Social Sciences, focused on how Global Citizenship Education fosters mutual understanding and respect across diverse cultures, promoting a unified global community.

These keynote speakers aim to inspire and guide participants in exploring the transformative potential of education in addressing contemporary global issues.

Also present at the event were Dean of the School of Educational Studies, Associate Professor Dr. Rahimi Che Aman; Penang Education Department Deputy Director of the Learning Sector, Roland @ Rozaidi Abu Hassan; Director of GCC-USM, Dr. Rohizani Yaakub, along with other academicians, research officers, and key university officers.

Text: Shafinaz Md Ismail/Photo: Mohd Fairus Md Isa & Shamil Shazwan Abu Bakar 

USM PENANG, 4 October 2024 – A representative from the Korean Ministry of Environment was at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) today to present a talk on ‘Education for Sustainable Development’ (ESD).

Held at the USM School of Educational Studies (PPIP) Aminah Ayob Auditorium, the talk by Dr. Park Su Yeon was jointly organised by PPIP and RCE Penang@USM.

Park currently serves as an expert advisor to the Korean Environment Ministry.

She delivered a talk on the topic ‘’Sustainability Academic Discourse – Embracing Formation Process of Environment Citizen through Environmental Learning Experience: Application of Learn-Act-Being Cyclic Model’’, a process to develop environmentally-conscious citizens using the aforementioned environmental learning experience.

Park began her talk by giving an overview of Korea and her position as an advisor for the Government.

“The issue of citizenship is a major concern for the Koreans, beginning from the 1900s and even until the time when the country was divided into North and South.

“This progressed into the 2000s, when (peaceful) climate protests and constitutional petitions were held, and where the people have demanded for their ‘right to live in the future’.”

Park said that the idea would need to be understood by those involved in policy-making, namely the policy-makers, policy advocates as well as policy followers.

“When effectively implemented, such policies could result in long-lasting achievements. The achievements can be in the form of projects which have been completed, but more importantly the resulting change in each individual, which in itself is a significant outcome,” she added.

She continued by highlighting the progress which had been implemented through enacted laws by the government in Korea regarding Environmental Education (EE), which had been realised in the form of the Mandatory School Environmental Education plan.

Environmental education is a process that allows individuals to explore environmental issues, engage in problem-solving, and to take action to improve the environment. As a result, individuals develop a deeper understanding of environmental issues and acquire skills to make informed and responsible decisions.

In relation to the move made by the Korean government and as part of her Doctoral research, Park had proposed the ‘Learn-Act-Being’ cyclic framework.

It lists down the necessary items that need to be considered in educating the people to be ‘environmental citizens’ or practicing pro-environmental behaviours and achieving sustainability, as defined by the European Network for Environmental Citizenship (ENEC).

As she summarised in her conclusion, what is more important would be that the awareness on environmental issues and practices need to be internalised, based on the knowledge and understanding acquired by the individuals. This would then lead to decision-making and action, on the necessary steps to be taken regarding sustainability.

Park has been involved in the field of Education for more than fifteen years. For ten years, she had also led the Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) branch in Tongyeong, Republic of Korea.

RCE Tongyeong has established a green space named ‘Sejahtera Forest’, with the name proposed by the then former USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tan Sri Dzulkifli Abdul Razak.

RCE Penang@USM, as part of the USM Centre for Global Sustainability Studies (CGSS), is a member of the RCE global network and among the first seven to be established in the world then.

Both RCEs are part of the RCE global network, which has branches all around the world. It is facilitated by the United Nations University-Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS), a leading research and teaching institute based in Tokyo, Japan.

Text: School of Educational Studies, USM & Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin

USM PENANG, 21 May 2024 - The Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed today received a courtesy visit from the Bangladesh High Commissioner to Malaysia, His Excellency Md. Shameem Ahsan at the Chancellory Conference Room, Chancellory Building in USM.

The visit aimed to discuss and explore avenues for enhancing collaboration between Malaysia and Bangladesh, fostering mutual growth and progress in education and research.

Abdul Rahman was pleased to welcome His Excellency and to receive the courtesy visit from the Bangladesh High Commission to Malaysia, and the discussion between both parties was very fruitful.

During the meeting, Abdul Rahman gave a brief overview regarding the university profile, background and achievements.

He expressed the confidence that cooperation between Malaysia and Bangladesh can unlock new opportunities for academic and research collaboration and mutual growth.

“As we continue to navigate the challenges of the 21st century, our partnership will be instrumental in shaping the future of education, research and innovation,” he said.

Following that, Md. Shameem then highlighted how the presence of Bangladesh embassies may serve to facilitate cooperation in relation to business and cultural matters, with established partnerships in industries, education, and economy.

USM currently has 99 students from Bangladesh among its international student population of 7,904.

These students are pursuing postgraduate and undergraduate studies in various fields such as dental science, computer science, engineering and business studies.

Since 2019 until July 2024, USM has established three collaborations with institutions in Bangladesh through the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA), Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), and other agreements.

Also present at the meeting were the Counsellor (Political) of Bangladesh High Commission, Malaysia, Pranab Kuman Bhattacharjee; Honorary Consul of Bangladesh in Penang, Dato' Shaik Ismail Allaudin; USM Top Management; USM Head of Departments and principal officers of USM.

Text: Nur Farrah Ezlin Mohd Suhaimi/Photo: Mohd Fairus Md Isa

USM PENANG, 25 March 2024 - The Commonwealth Academic Forum 2024 was held online today, via Cisco Webex, to look at the issues on the growing importance of women taking leading roles in different areas, especially in higher education, where they are reshaping paradigms and propelling transformative change.

The forum was jointly organised by the Commonwealth Tertiary Education Facility (CTEF) and Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), National Higher Education Research Institute (IPPTN), and the Malaysian Society for Higher Education Policy and Research Development (PenDaPat).

Focusing on the issue of "Shattering Expectations: Women Leadership in Higher Education", the forum addressed a critical juncture, encapsulating the transformative journey of women who are breaking barriers, defying stereotypes, and assuming leadership roles within the academia.

It is crucial to recognise the interrelation of the dialogue with global initiatives aimed at fostering gender equality and promoting quality education.

According to USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic and International, Professor Dato’ Gs. Dr. Narimah Samat, in her opening speech, she underscored the profound significance of women's leadership in driving progress towards fulfilling Sustainable Development Goal 5,on Gender Equality.

“We recognise the pivotal role of women's leadership in driving progress towards this goal, fostering inclusivity, and ensuring equal opportunities for all,” she said.

Narimah further emphasised the pivotal role of women's leadership in higher education as a catalyst for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4, relating to Quality Education.

Recognising the transformative power of education in empowering individuals and communities, she stressed the importance of nurturing talent, fostering creativity, and promoting lifelong learning through inclusive and equitable education systems.

“As we navigate this discourse, we must also confront the challenges that persist. It is incumbent upon us to address these challenges collectively, through collaborative efforts and targeted initiatives that create a conducive environment for women to thrive and succeed,” she added.

The speakers who presented relating to the overall theme of the forum were the Executive Director, Centre for Academic Partnerships and Engagement (CAPE), University of Nottingham Malaysia, Associate Professor Dr. Rozilini Mary Fernandez-Chung, PFHEA; and the Vice-Chancellor, SABS University of Art, Design and Heritages Jamshoro, Pakistan, Professor Dr. Arabella Bhutto, moderated by the Programme Director of Taylor’s University Malaysia and also Deputy Secretary of PenDaPat, Marzura Abdul Malek.

The Undersecretary, International Relations Division, MOHE, Datin Noorazah Omar then delivered the closing remarks at the end of the programme, in which she highlighted the significant role of women in Malaysia’s higher education sector.

Noorazah urged for the continuation of efforts to foster diversity, inclusion, and excellence in higher education, emphasising that women's leadership is key to achieving a brighter, more equal future.

“Let us continue this momentum and commitment towards fostering a culture of diversity, inclusion, and excellence in higher education, where women's leadership not only shatters expectations but also paves the way for a brighter and more equal future for all,” she said.

The CTEF acts as a network for Commonwealth countries, facilitating the development of tertiary education by sharing knowledge and best practices.

Also present at the virtual forum were the Programme Director, Sri Jeyanthirar Subramaniam and IPPTN Director, Ts. Dr. Rohayati Mohd Isa.

Text: Nur Farrah Ezlin Mohd Suhaimi/Photo: Commonwealth Tertiary Education Facility (CTEF)

USM PENANG, 29 July 2024 – The third Green Ambassadors’ Appreciation Night was recently held at the Seminar Hall, Level 1, TORAY Building, at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM).

The programme was held to acknowledge the dedication, time, commitment, and assistance provided by the Green Ambassadors (GA) as a volunteer team, operating under the Environmental Protection and Education Hub (EPEHub) at the Centre for Global Sustainability Studies (CGSS) in USM.

The appreciation ceremony was attended by Tzu-Chi Society, Tzu-Chi Youth Collegiate Association Penang, and Advance Dispute Resolution Centre (ADRC), Penang, Malaysia as well as representatives from the Centre For Education & Training In Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency & Green Technology (CETREE), CGSS, USM.

Among the distinguished guests were Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Sayuti Hassan, representing CGSS Director, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Wira Mohd Shafiei.

During his speech, he congratulated the GA members for their positive impact on the campus and being a champion in environmental protection and sustainability, not only at the USM main campus but also with the community around Penang.

Following that, the EPEHub Coordinator, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ng Theam Foo expressed his heartfelt thanks for the contributions, efforts and commitment of the GA and Tzu-Chi volunteers towards promoting and conducting various environmental education and sustainable lifestyles practices.

“EPEHub@CGSS has been empowering the GA members to carry out various meaningful programmes and activities both on and off-campus.

“I am well pleased that these programmes and activities made a huge and significant impact on increasing awareness and education about environmental protection and sustainability, as well as changing attitudes and behaviours among the GA and students in USM and the surrounding communities,” he added.

Coordinator of the Tzu-Chi Youth Collegiate Association Penang, Lim Wei Ying shared her appreciation and perspective on the commitment to promote sustainable lifestyles practices.

“I strongly encourage the GA to continue to build wisdom and compassionate heart to work closely with the community and drive positive change to their own personal lifestyle,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Main Coordinator of GA, Amber Wang Zi Yan expressed her appreciation to the EPEHub team and GA members for their support and contributions to the successful implementation and in carrying out all the meaningful programmes and activities throughout the previous academic session.

She hoped that all these events would have a great impact on future generations to sustain our Mother Earth.

The GA members were reminded of their mission to continue spreading awareness and education about environmental protection and sustainable lifestyles in and out of the USM campus.

“This is very important in ensuring that future generations can thrive in a more sustainable world for all, which aligns with the vision of USM,” said Amber.

Others present at the appreciation ceremony were Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chan Siok Yee; Dr. Mohd Sukri Shafie (CETREE); Syafiq Saifullah Azmi; Ng Choon Chuan; and Dr. Lee CY.

Source Text & Photo: Amber Wang Zi Yan & Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ng Theam Foo, CGSS/Editing: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin

OSAKA, JAPAN, 17 October 2024 – Fifteen students from underprivileged B40 families in Penang have embarked on an enriching educational journey in Japan, as part of the 2024 innovative Hybrid Education dan International Experience Programme (HEIEP).

The programme was jointly organised by USAINS Group and Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), in aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), more specifically Goal 4: Quality Education, which emphasizes inclusive and equitable education for all.

The students, who left Penang on 14 October, had a memorable cultural exchange and learning experience the following day at Josho Keiko High School in Hirakatashi, Osaka.

They were warmly welcomed by over 800 Japanese students, fostering an atmosphere of friendship and collaboration—reflecting Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

The students engaged in a series of interactive activities, including observing innovative STEM classes and laboratories.

This hands-on experience led to meaningful exchanges about the practical applications of science and technology in daily life, highlighting the importance of fostering innovation and resilience as advocated by Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

One of the key highlights of the visit was a vibrant cultural performance, where both Malaysian and Japanese students showcased traditional dances and music, deepening their mutual understanding and appreciation of each other’s cultures.

The Penang students also participated in sports and physical activities with their Japanese peers, promoting friendship and teamwork—essential elements for building inclusive communities, as outlined in Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

The group’s learning journey began the day before their school visit with an inspiring trip to the Osaka Science Museum, where they were introduced to the latest advancements in science and technology, an experience that further enhanced their interactions at Josho Keiko High School.

As the week unfolds, these budding leaders from Penang continue to forge connections and share perspectives, fully embracing this unique opportunity.

Their journey underscores the significance of cultural exchange, the transformative power of education, and the collective efforts needed to achieve the SDGs.

Through collaboration and understanding, these students are taking steps toward bridging divides and building a more sustainable future for all.

In their commitment to celebrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) values and provide opportunities to the underprivileged, USAINS Group has made a significant impact through this initiative.

The organisation expressed its gratitude to industry partners and USM for their invaluable support and contributions to the programme.

Text: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Shaik Abdul Malik Mohamed Ismail, USAINS Holding Sdn. Bhd.

PENANG, 19 December 2024 -The Bachelor of Building Engineering Technology with Honours program, offered by the School of Housing, Building, and Planning, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), has officially been granted Full Accreditation Status for a period of three years by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Council (ETAC) of the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM). This landmark achievement establishes the program as the first engineering technology program in USM to receive recognition from ETAC BEM.

This decision follows a comprehensive accreditation visit conducted by the ETAC evaluation panel from 8th to 9th May 2024. The primary objective of the visit was to evaluate whether the program complies with ETAC's stringent standards, ensuring its graduates are well-prepared to pursue careers as engineering technologists.

The evaluation panel was led by Ts. Dr. Sabrina Karim, with panel members Ir. Ts. Dr. Nurhidayah Azmy and Ir. Mohd Mawardi Hassim.

They were warmly received by the USM management team, including the Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Professor Dato' Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed; Dean of the School of Housing, Building, and Planning (HBP), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Mohd Rodzi Ismail; Program Chairman Dr. Ariza Sharikin Abu Bakar, and program members.

The closing session featured remarks by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research and Innovation, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Professor Dr. Habibah A Wahab, along with other key university representatives.

During the visit, the ETAC panel held meetings with university management, academic and technical staff, students, and external stakeholders, including alumni and members of the Industry Community Advisory Panel (ICAP).

The evaluation included a thorough review of program documents, facilities, and resources to verify their adequacy for professional and student development.

Following the rigorous assessment process, ETAC BEM confirmed that the program meets its accreditation requirements, granting Full Accreditation Status for three years.

This recognition not only reflects the program's compliance with high academic and professional standards but also represents a significant milestone for USM in advancing its engineering technology education.

USM PENANG, 9 July 2024 - The Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) School of Housing, Building and Planning (HBP), in collaboration with Talent Corporation Malaysia Berhad (TalentCorp), recently held the HBP Vivaz Fiesta 2.0., a grand celebration that aimed to unite students, faculty, industry partners, and the broader community for a day of communal spirit, cultural exchange and excitement.

The event commenced with a vibrant Career Fair, offering attendees the opportunity to engage with representatives from esteemed companies and organisations.

This platform provided valuable networking opportunities and insights into various career paths, making it an indispensable point of reference for students and job seekers alike.

Present at the opening ceremony was the USM HBP Dean, Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Mohd Rodzi Ismail, who highlighted the importance of such initiatives in fostering professional growth and development.

“I would like to extend a heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved in this collaboration. It is through these collective efforts that we can create meaningful opportunities for our students and strengthen the ties between academia and the industry,” said Mohd Rodzi.

Meanwhile, TalentCorp’s Internship Facilitation, Graduate and Emerging Talent Leader, Siti Noratikah Kasmoi, sponsored two key slots for the event.

The first slot focused on career roadmaps and internship insights, targeting second, third, and final-year students from seven HBP programmes namely Architecture, Building Engineering Technology, Building Surveying, Construction Project Management, Interior Architecture, Quantity Surveying, and Urban Regional Planning.

This session provided students with valuable guidance for planning their future career paths and internship placements.

The second slot centered on corporate collaboration and knowledge exchange with industry partners, conducted in a hybrid manner and participated by 20 companies from Penang and other regions.

Talent Corp presented their various programmes to industry partners, including National Structured Internship Programme (MySIP) and Industrial Training Matching Grant Initiative for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (LiKES), fostering stronger connections between academia and the industry.

The event also featured a range of engaging mini-games that sparked friendly competition among participants of all ages, a movie night, and concluded with a grand finale firework show that illuminated the night sky with a spectacular display of colours and patterns.

Text and Photo: Associate Professor Dr. Radzi Ismail, USM HBP Deputy Dean (Academic, Career and International) & Gautham A/L Segar/Editing: Nur Farrah Ezlin Mohd Suhaimi

GEORGE TOWN, PENANG, 13 November 2024 – The National Poison Centre (PRN) of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) celebrated its 30th anniversary at the Gala Dinner of the 22nd Scientific Congress of the Asia Pacific Association of Medical Toxicology (APAMT) 2024.

Themed “Blossom Through Time: A Timeless Tribute to Toxicology,” the evening honoured PRN’s contributions to toxicology and public health, as well as its impact on Penang’s medical tourism sector.

USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed commended PRN’s achievements, stating, “PRN’s contribution to Malaysia and the world are truly commendable. As the first Poison Centre in Southeast Asia, it has become a landmark institution in Malaysia, renowned for its dedication to poison management, prevention awareness, and innovative community solutions.”

“Appointed as a World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Drug Information, these and many more achievements reflect PRN's commitment to providing quality service and excellence in the field of toxicology,” stated Abdul Rahman.

Meanwhile, in his opening remarks, Penang Executive Council Member for Youth, Sports, and Health, Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, emphasised the prominent impact of both toxicology and medical tourism in Penang, reflecting the state’s dedication to world-class medical services that attract international patients.

"Penang’s medical tourism generated RM380 million in revenue in 2023 alone, drawing patients from Indonesia, Bangladesh, India, and beyond," stated Daniel.

"This achievement showcases the expertise of our medical professionals, the high standards of our healthcare facilities, and the unique warmth of Penang hospitality."

As the APAMT 2024 Gala Dinner concluded, the event highlighted APAMT’s commitment to pioneering advancements in toxicology throughout the Asia Pacific region.

With the enduring dedication of the National Poison Centre (PRN), USM and Penang proudly reinforce their positions as leaders in public health, fostering future growth and impactful collaborations in the field.

Text: Shafinaz Md Ismail/Photo: Mohd Fairus Md Isa

USM PENANG, 4 October 2024 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), through its Graduate School of Business (GSB), successfully held the 4th International Conference on Business Sustainability and Innovation (ICBSI 2024) from 3 – 4 October 2024 at the Olive Tree Hotel, Penang.

The conference, themed “Smart Sustainability: Navigating the Future with Innovation and Resilience,” focuses on how the integration of smart technologies can drive sustainable practices to address critical environmental challenges like climate change, resource depletion, and pollution.

USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor Industry and Community Network, Professor Dr. Azlan Amran, who officiated the opening ceremony on the first day of the conference on behalf of the USM Vice-Chancellor, highlighted the significance of the conference in navigating the digital era with sustainability at its core.

“In an era defined by rapid technological advancements and global challenges, the pursuit of smart sustainability requires us to harness the power of innovation and resilience.

“As we confront pressing challenges such as climate change, resource scarcity, and socio-economic disparities, it becomes increasingly clear that smart solutions driven by sustainable practices and innovative technologies are indispensable,” he said.

Azlan added, “By leveraging these innovations, industries can optimise resource utilisation, reduce carbon footprints, and enhance resilience in the face of global uncertainties.”

In his opening speech, he also congratulated USM Graduate School of Business, and fellow collaborators namely Multimedia University (MMU), Sukkur IBA University, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, and Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Cawangan Kedah for successfully organising the ICBSI 2024.

ICBSI 2024 has attracted significant interest from more than 130 participants across Malaysia and other countries, with around 80 presenters selected to share their research on cutting-edge topics related to business innovation, sustainability, and technology.

All accepted papers will be published in MyCite indexed journals, and selected papers will be considered for publication in Scopus/ERA indexed journals.

Keynote speakers included notable experts in the fields of sustainability and innovation, such as Professor Azlan himself, and Datuk Dr. Ahmad Parveez Ghulam Kadir, Director General of the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB).

Their sessions provided invaluable insights into building a sustainable future through innovation and resilience.

Also present were the GSB Deputy Dean of Research, Innovation and Industry-Community Engagement, Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Yulita Hanum P Iskandar who represented the Dean; Chairperson of the 4th ICBSI 2024, Associate Professor Dr. Goh Yen Nee; and other distinguished academics, industry leaders, researchers, and key university officials.

ICBSI 2024 has set a new benchmark for evaluating current research in business sustainability and innovation, offering participants avenues for wider dissemination of their research outcomes, while promoting a future shaped by smart, sustainable practices.

Text: Graduate School of Business (GSB) USM/Editing: Tan Ewe Hoe

USM PENANG, 6 May 2024 - In a immense step towards fostering international collaboration in the realm of sustainable energy, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Shandong University and Qingdao Daneng Environmental Protection Equipment Incorporated Company from China.

The Vice-Chancellor of USM, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed stated that the signing represented a significant milestone in the global pursuit of clean and reliable energy sources, while underscoring the vital role hydrogen plays in the ongoing global transition towards sustainability.

“It has garnered the attention of experts across various disciplines, owing to its potential and signifies a commitment to fostering synergistic collaborations that drive groundbreaking advancements as a clean energy alternative,” said Abdul Rahman.

“As the world continues its rapid transformation towards sustainability, collaborations such as these also serve to illustrate the importance of global cooperation in addressing pressing environmental challenges,” he added.

Meanwhile, during his address, Vice President of Shandong University, Qingdao Campus, Song Zuobiao, highlighted the institution's unwavering commitment to international cooperation and its strategic focus on globalisation.

“Shandong University is dedicated to fostering global talent and advancing academic excellence on an international scale, particularly through collaborative student training initiatives with the objective of developing high-quality talents,” stated Song.

He further elaborated that the partnership will subsequently be aligned with discipline clusters focused on the following areas such as Biology-Environics-Oceanology, Computer-Optoelectronic Information-Network Security, and Politics-Law-Public Administration.

Additionally, at the signing ceremony, the Chairman of the Board at Qingdao DaNeng Environmental Protection Equipment Co., Ltd., China, Wang Yong, underscored the company's unwavering dedication to supporting the national ecological and environmentally sustainable development strategy.

"For nearly two decades, Qingdao DaNeng has been committed to designing, manufacturing, and distributing energy-saving, environmental protection, and emission reduction equipment across various sectors, including electricity, heat, metallurgy, and waste treatment," he stated.

According to him, the company has achieved notable success due to its comprehensive research, development, production, and sales system while driven by its commitment to internationalisation and innovation.

“The objective of this collaboration is to conduct joint research on energy-efficient, green, and low-carbon technologies, facilitate the transformation of key research findings into industrial applications, and overcome intellectual property barriers.

“This initiative is designed to leverage the combined strengths of these three parties in order to facilitate technological upgrading and foster industry-university research cooperation,” he told.

Also present were the Dean of the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, representing the Director of the USM Engineering Campus, Professor Ir. Ts. Dr. Shahrel Azmin Sundi @ Suandi; Dean, USM School of Mechanical Engineering; Associate Professor Dr. Jamaluddin Abdullah; President of Penang Muslim Entrepreneurs Association, Datuk Sr. Dr. Muhamad Farid Saad and Director of the USM Centre for Global Sustainability Studies (CGSS), Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Wira Mohd Shafiei.

Text: Siti Faizah Abd Halim/Photo: Muhammad Taufik Abdul Rahman

USM PULAU PINANG, 21 November 2024 - A retired Hong Kong-based engineer, Dr. John Luk Wang Kwong, has successfully earned his PhD at the age of 80 in Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) earlier today, demonstrating the power of perseverance and lifelong learning.

Dr. Luk, a former president of the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, completed his doctoral thesis titled 'Innovation in Social Sustainability' under the distance learning programme offered by USM.

His journey began in 2017, driven by a passion to address pressing housing issues in Hong Kong and a desire to contribute to meaningful discourse on urban development.

The senior scholar faced numerous challenges, including limited access to resources and long-distance support, but credited his success to unwavering determination and the encouragement of his wife, Dr. Cheung Kit Ying, 75.

“While the experience was challenging, especially given the distance and limited on-the-ground support, success came due to my unwavering commitment and my pillar of strength, my wife,” he shared.

Despite his illustrious career in engineering, property development, and legal consultancy, Luk’s PhD was not intended to further his professional pursuits but to leave a lasting impact on society.

Describing his experience with USM, he praised the university’s international reputation and high academic standards, which motivated him to excel in the programme.

Through his research, he hopes to provide valuable insights into Hong Kong’s complex housing market and contribute to the global knowledge pool.

“I hope my journey will serve as a powerful reminder that it is never too late to pursue education, make meaningful contributions, and continue to grow both personally and professionally,” remarked the father of two sons and a grandchild.

An avid lifelong learner, Dr. Luk has earned 18 academic qualifications over five decades, cementing his legacy as a role model for pursuing education at any age.

Text: Shafinaz Md Ismail/Editing: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin/Photo: MPRC

USM PENANG, 19 March 2024 – The new batch of international students have arrived at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) to join classes in the new semester, and an orientation programme has been lined up for them to allow them to know more about the university and its surroundings.

The orientation programme for 254 full-time international students and 108 exchange students will be held beginning 18 - 22 March 2024.

The USM International Mobility and Collaboration Centre (IMCC) will be running the programme, with assistance from IMCC Student Buddies, mobility and Visa sections and as well as the Division of Student Development Affairs and Alumni (BHEPA) and the respective academic schools.

IMCC Director, Associate Professor Dr. Muhizam Mustafa said, “This orientation engagement is important to expose the new international students to a whole new experience in USM.”

“This is a proud moment to showcase to our international students that they have made the right decision in pursuing their higher education with USM as we advocate this idea that ‘Everything is Better at USM!’” he added.

The new students will be visiting their academic schools as part of the programme, where they will be provided with essential information on their studies, options and academic matters at the schools.

USM is one of the public universities in the country with a high number of international student enrolment. The current number stands at 9,764. The new academic session at the university is planned to begin next week.

Among the academic schools that have received confirmation regarding international students enrolment are the School of Educational Studies; School of Industrial Technology; School of Languages, Literacies and Translation; School of Management, School of Mathematical Sciences; School of Computer Sciences; School of Biological Sciences; School of Chemical Sciences; and School of Physics.

Text: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin/Photos: IMCC USM & BHEPA USM 

USM PENANG, 21 May 2024 – The Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) School of Pharmaceutical Sciences organised a programme today to provide engagement opportunities for students with experts and players in the field.

In her opening speech, the Dean of the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Associate Professor Dr. Nurzalina Abdul Karim Khan said, the programme is pivotal as it is planned for the students to explore a myriad of opportunities to establish connections and to be involved in network sessions with industry experts.

She continued by saying that though many students can excel academically, it is the first impression that counts, be they in an interview for a job, or upon seeing a patient. The strength of character is just as important, as they would need to have the desire for lifelong learning, to be compassion, and to have the empathy in dealing with customers or patients in the future.

In representing the USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Nurzalina further said that the event could assist in the students’ journey to become healthcare professionals. The field of pharmacy is constantly evolving and an event such as this could provide valuable insights and guidance into areas of healthcare, science and patient care.

She then said, involvement in the pharmacy field is not only about dispensing medicine; it is about improving lives, enhancing patient outcomes and contributing to the wellbeing of communities, regardless of where you may serve. As long as they continue to have the core values of the profession, namely integrity, empathy and commitment to excellence, they would surely be able to make a positive impact in the lives of whom they serve.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony was later held between the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and HeyDOC, with Nurzalina representing the School and HeyDOC being represented by Christina Oui Hui Che.

Held at Dewan Budaya USM, the ‘Pharmacy Career Day and Talent Recruitment Drive Event’ include collaborators from the pharmaceutical industry and companies such as Alpro, HTM, Nova, Guardian, Hovid, PMG, Duopharma, Malaysian Community Pharmacy Guild and the Ministry of Health Malaysia (KKM).

The one-day programme also held different talk sessions from 10 different speakers, each one focusing on their area of expertise, in addition to having a few booths set up at the foyer of Dewan Budaya for the participants to view the various products and services offered by the respective companies involved.

Text: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin/Photo: Mohd Fairus Md Isa

USM PENANG, 11 July 2024 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) recently hosted its annual PITCH@USM programme, a platform designed to cultivate entrepreneurship and innovation among students and staff.

The programme aligns with USM's APEX agenda, which emphasizes sustainable performance-based education by providing capacity-building and financial support to aspiring entrepreneurs.

The semi-finals, held on 3 July 2024, saw 32 teams showcased their innovative business ideas. The competition intensified on 4 July as the top 12 teams advanced to the final round, held at The Nest and the BHEPA Student Development Centre Meeting Room.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research and Innovation at USM, Professor Dr. Habibah A Wahab, presided over the closing ceremony.

She expressed her admiration for the participants' creativity and thanked the sponsors namely Digital Penang, Exabytes, Safetyware dan TLC Houseware for their invaluable support.

“We also extend our deepest gratitude to the Pitch@USM organising committee for their dedication and effort in making this event a success. Your commitment has been instrumental in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship at USM.

“Special thanks to the Centre for Innovation and Consultation (CIC) and the Student Development Centre (HEPA) for their invaluable support and contributions,” she added.

The event featured a distinguished panel of judges, including industry leaders and academic experts. Among them were USM IPPT and PPUSMB Director, Professor Dato’ Ir. Dr. Faisal Rafiq Mahamd Adikan; Director of Centre for Innovation and Consultation (CIC), Professor Ir. Dr. Srimala Sreekantan; and Professor Dr. Habibah A Wahab.

The winners of PITCH@USM 2024 were:

1. Champion (RM3,000): Ts. Naresh Ravi (ProFeather) from the Graduate School of Business.

2. 1st Runner-Up (RM2,000): Alexander Tan Wai Teng (NEAR) from the School of Mechanical Engineering.

3. 2nd Runner-Up (RM1,000): Muhammad Talhah bin Sarudin (Ecoenzyme@USM) from the School of Management.

Special prizes were awarded to staff and students:

1. Staff (RM1,000): Muhamed Abdul Fatah bin Muhamed Mukhtar (USM Makers Lab) from the School of Materials and Mineral Resources Engineering.

2. Student (RM700): Alka Kaur Sandhu (Cakna) from the School of Social Sciences and Jeremy Lau Wei Han (MAMA) from the School of Computer Sciences.

PITCH@USM 2024 exemplifies USM's commitment to fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, empowering individuals to transform their innovative ideas into successful ventures.

Source: PITCH@USM Fb/Editing: Tan Ewe Hoe/Photos: NirMaryadi Rashid/Siti Ruhaida Mohamed Radhi, Media and Publication Unit, BHEPA USM

BANDA ACEH, 7 November 2024 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), represented by RCE Penang, recently participated in an international workshop titled "An Intellectual Discourse on Environmental Issues" at Universitas Islam Negeri Ar-Raniry (UIN Ar-Raniry).

The event emphasised a collaboration on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and provided an enriching platform for youth discussions on sustainability practices.

USM's involvement highlighted its commitment to SDG-focused initiatives, particularly through the empowerment of young leaders to tackle environmental challenges and promote sustainable communities.

Attended by 40 students from UIN Ar-Raniry's Fakultas Tarbiyah and Keguruan, along with faculty members Ibu Sabarni and Dr. Nurmalahayati, the workshop featured a series of youth sharing sessions led by the USM delegation.

Six USM students presented on SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), underscoring practical strategies to address these global challenges.

Their presentations emphasised the integration of sustainable practices within education, urban planning, and access to clean water, aiming to inspire resilience and awareness within the ASEAN youth community.

The USM delegation included Dr. Rohaya Abdullah, Project Coordinator, and a research officer from RCE Penang, Centre for Global Sustainability Studies (CGSS) at USM.

Rohaya said, “Through this collaboration, USM champions SDG-focused educational initiatives, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to implement sustainable solutions in their communities.”

She added, the seminar marked a meaningful step toward strengthening regional partnerships and fostering a deeper understanding of SDG implementation among youth.

With a shared vision for sustainability, USM and UIN Ar-Raniry exemplify how cross-border collaboration can drive impactful change, encouraging youth to become agents of environmental and social progress in their respective countries.

USM PENANG, 23 July 2024 – The Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) School of Languages, Literacies and Translation (SoLLaT) recently had the distinct honour of hosting the Ambassador of Spain to Malaysia, His Excellency Mr. José Luis Pardo Cuerdo, in a special courtesy visit to commemorate the university being designated as an official centre for the DELE (Diploma in Spanish as a Foreign Language) examinations.

Earlier in March 2024, SoLLaT USM formalised a landmark agreement with Instituto Cervantes, a worldwide non-profit organisation founded by the Spanish Government. This Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) officially designates USM as an authorised DELE examination centre.

Being the only public university in Malaysia authorised to conduct DELE examinations, particularly for the northern region, this milestone underscores USM's commitment to fostering Spanish language proficiency.

USM, strategically located and equipped with superb facilities, is well-prepared to accommodate all examination levels.

Ummu Salmah Rahamatullah, who has over 15 years of experience as a DELE examiner, will oversee all examination levels, working alongside fellow staff Cheow Sze Huay, both of whom are DELE-accredited examiners from SoLLaT.

During the meeting, USM SoLLaT Acting Dean, Azril Ali gave an overview regarding the DELE Spanish Diplomas as official certificates that attest to one’s competency and proficiency in the Spanish language.

“Securing the diplomas is an excellent way to validate Spanish language skills. These examinations cater to a diverse range of candidates, including school students, young people, and adults learning Spanish as a second or foreign language, with proficiency levels ranging from A1 to C2 based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

“Issued by Instituto Cervantes on behalf of the Spanish Ministry of Education, Vocational Training, and Sports, DELE certificates are internationally recognised and valid indefinitely,” he said.

Azril Ali also expressed his anticipation for the opportunities this partnership will bring and reaffirmed the university's commitment to strengthen international collaborations and enhance foreign language offerings to equip students with global knowledge.

Following that, José Luis congratulated SoLLaT’s Foreign Language Section, especially the Spanish language unit, for this significant achievement and international recognition.

During his brief interaction with the Spanish language students, José Luis expressed his enthusiasm for future collaborations beyond the classroom between USM, Aula Cervantes (a branch of Instituto Cervantes in Malaysia), and the Spanish Embassy, aimed at further enriching the students' learning experiences.

SoLLaT plans to conduct its inaugural DELE examinations intake in November 2024. For more information, please visit [https://ppblt.usm.my/index.php/services/dele-examinations] or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Text: Ummu Salmah Rahamatullah, Foreign Language Section (Spanish), USM SoLLaT/Editing: Nur Farrah Ezlin Mohd Suhaimi, Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin & Aizat Hisham Ahmad/Photo: Shahnizam Ab Rahim

NIBONG TEBAL, 8 March 2024 – In an effort to strengthen international collaborations, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), through the Director's Office of Engineering Campus, today hosted an official visit from Kyushu Institute of Technology (KYUTECH).

Based in Fukuoka, Japan, KYUTECH is one of the leading universities aiming to establish strategic partnerships worldwide and the meeting is part of their initiative to expand its global collaborations, with a target of establishing 10 collaborative relationships with universities around the world by 2026.

The meeting, chaired by the Dean of the School of Civil Engineering, Associate Professor Ir. Dr. Fadzli Mohamed Nazri, is hoped to be a crucial step in strengthening ties and fostering meaningful collaborations between USM and KYUTECH, ultimately promoting research, academic exchange, and international cooperation.

Notably, USM and KYUTECH have already engaged in collaborative efforts within the fields of Civil Engineering,involving programmes such as PhD mobility and supervision,as well as joint initiatives in biotechnology and research.

Representing KYUTECH at the meeting were Special Assistant to the Vice President cum the Chief Specialist of the International Operation Headquarters, Wakabayashi Toshiro; Director of Education & Research Centre in Malaysia cum Director of Collaborative Research Centre for Green Materials on Environmental Technology, Associate Professor Yoshito Ando and Associate Professor Shinya Ikeno.

The collaborative relationship between USM and KYUTECH is expected to mirror successful partnerships between other universities and to include various levels of engagement that have proven to be effective in terms of internationalisation.

This is in line with the University's vision to strengthen its international presence and promote academic collaboration, and the institution also aims to formalise and evaluate these collaborative activities.

As for KYUTECH, it aims to designate USM as its fifth international strategic partner, marking a significant milestone in the growing relationship between the two institutions and opening avenues for further collaborative ventures that will benefit both universities while contributing to the global academic community.

Text: Siti Faizah Abd Halim/Photo: Muhammad Taufik Abdul Rahman

BAYAN LEPAS, PENANG, 15 August 2024 – Professor of Neuroscience and Chairman of the Brain Behaviour Research Cluster at the School of Medical Sciences (PPSP), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Professor Dato' Dr. Jafri Malin Dato' Haji Abdullah has handed over his duties as the Coordinator of the International Brain Bee (IBB) Malaysia Chapter to Associate Professor Dr. Muzaimi Mustapha effective 15 August 2024.

Muzaimi, who is also a Lecturer in Neuroscience at PPSP USM, is expected to continue the legacy of IBB leadership in Malaysia, especially in ensuring the continuity of the IBB programme at the national level as well as at the global level.

IBB is a neuroscience competition for teenagers founded in 1999 by Norbert Myslinski and covers over 200 Chapters in more than 50 regions on six (6) continents.

It aims to help treat and find cures for brain disorders by inspiring and motivating students to pursue basic and clinical neuroscience careers.

Jafri Malin and Muzaimi, together with the national neuroscience community as well as delegates from Asian countries, are scheduled to participate in the 'Asian Society Against Dementia' (ASAD) 2024 at SPICE Arena, Penang on 15 to 17 August 2024 which will be held in conjunction with the final competition of the 'Malaysian Brain Bee Challenge'.

The winners of the IBB competition from each country will also be invited to virtually compete in this year's world championship in conjunction with the annual scientific meeting of the Society for Neuroscience (SfN) in Chicago, United States, from 5 to 9 October 2024.

Text & Photo: Amyrulhan Azhari/Professor Dato' Dr. Jafri Malin Dato' Haji Abdullah