BUKIT JAMBUL, 28 May 2024 - Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) through the School of Biological Sciences (SBS), in collaboration with the Asian Society of Ichthyologists (ASI), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) with support from Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK), Indonesia and IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia today joined forces to hold the the 7th International Conference of the Asian Society of Ichthyologists 2024 (ASIIC 2024).

The conference was resumed after a four-year hiatus due to the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

With the theme “Exploring Species Diversity and Resilience of Asian Fishes in a Changing Environment”, the 2-day conference is particularly pertinent, given the current and future global concerns caused by uncontrolled anthropogenetic activities, such as overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction, coupled with the adverse effects of climate change.

The opening ceremony held at Auditorium Murad Mohd Noor, SAINS@USM this morning was graced by the presence of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Professor Dr. Habibah A Wahab, representing the USM Vice-Chancellor.

In her speech, Habibah emphasised that this event aligns with efforts to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as Zero Hunger (SDG 2), Climate Action (SDG 13), and Life Below Water (SDG 14).

She highlighted that addressing these interconnected goals not only advances scientific understanding, but also fosters practical solutions for sustainable development and environmental conservation.

“It is hoped that through international collaboration and knowledge sharing at this conference, participants would enhance their understanding of complex issues related to biodiversity conservation,” she said.

Meanwhile ASIIC 2024 Chairperson, Professor Dr. Siti Azizah Mohd Nor in her welcoming speech expressed her confidence that this conference would strengthen professional bonds among ichthyologists working in Asia's biodiverse regions.

The exchange of ideas and expertise here is poised to drive innovation and inspire groundbreaking research initiatives in this field.

The keynote address was delivered following that by the Curator of Ichthyology, Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, National University of Singapore, Dr. Tan Heok Hui entitled “Encheloclarias – A Cryptic Acid-Water Catfish from Sundaland, A Critical Update."

The conference will be held from 28 to 29 May 2024 with the participation of over 180 delegates from 16 countries.

Also present were the USM SBS Dean, Professor Dato’ Dr. Amirul Al-Ashraf Abdullah; principal officers of universities and head of departments.

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

BERITA DALAM TALIAN: PUSAT RACUN NEGARA USM TERIMA 111 KES KERACUNAN AKIBAT PENDEDAHAN ROKOK ELEKTRONIK

• Created on 29 March 2024.

USM PENANG, 28 February 2025 – The Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS) of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has taken a leading role in a large-scale marine conservation effort with the recent release of 10,000 tiger prawns (Penaeus monodon) off the coast of Pulau Betong, Penang.

As a key scientific partner in the Penang South Island (PSI) Ecology Offset Masterplan (PEOM), CEMACS plays a crucial role in ensuring that restocking efforts align with ecological best practices and sustainability goals.

Director of CEMACS, Professor Dato’ Dr Aileen Tan Shau Hwai, emphasised that the initiative is guided by strict scientific criteria to safeguard marine biodiversity.

"Only native species with high survival rates in Penang’s waters are introduced to prevent disruption to the existing ecosystem," she explained.

She added that continuous monitoring and genetic studies would be conducted to track the movement and migratory patterns of the released marine life, ensuring long-term success.

The initiative, which marks a significant milestone in marine conservation, is a collaborative effort between the Penang government, Silicon Island Development Sdn. Bhd., and various government agencies.

Chief Executive Officer of Penang Infrastructure Corporation Sdn. Bhd. (PICSB), Datuk Seri Farizan Darus, highlighted the importance of the restocking programme in supporting PEOM’s broader conservation agenda.

"Beyond reaffirming our commitment to sustainable fisheries, this project serves as a pilot study to assess the impact of fish and shrimp restocking in Penang’s southern waters," he said.

Farizan also acknowledged the contributions of the late Professor Dato’ Dr. Zulfigar Yasin, whose research laid the foundation for PEOM’s ecological framework before his passing on 3 February this year.

"Although he is no longer with us, we are dedicated to continuing his vision by turning research into meaningful conservation actions," he added.

The programme will continue with the release of an additional 42,000 tiger prawns and 25,000 seabass (Lates calcarifer) in phases over the next five months near Pulau Betong and Pulau Kendi.

Penang Agrotechnology, Food Security and Cooperative Development Committee Chairman, Fahmi Zainol, reiterated the state's commitment to ensuring the sustainability of fishery resources.

"A healthy marine ecosystem translates to better livelihoods for coastal fishermen, and we anticipate that this initiative will bring lasting benefits to the community," he stated.

The event saw participation from key officials, including representatives from Silicon Island Development Sdn. Bhd., the Deputy Chief Minister I’s office, and multiple governmental and environmental agencies.

Source: BULETIN MUTIARA, 26 February 2025 - Story by Christopher Tan/Pix courtesy of Silicon Island Development Sdn. Bhd./Text: Shafinaz Md Ismail

USM PULAU PINANG, 21 January 2025 – The Student Development Centre (PPP) at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)’s Division of Student Development Affairs and Alumni (BHEPA), through the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Sector, recently held the launch ceremony of the University Community Social Enterprise Project – EmpowerMom Creation at The Bricks, Siswaniaga@USM.

EmpowerMom Creation is a social entrepreneurship company comprised of students who have completed entrepreneurship training at The Bricks.

This project targets single mothers from the B40 group to be assisted through periodic knowledge transfer sessions, and provides a platform to enable this target group to generate income from home.

The launch ceremony was officiated by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic and International, Professor Dato’ Gs. Dr. Narimah Samat, representing the USM Vice-Chancellor.

In her speech, Narimah expressed her appreciation and congratulations on the success of EmpowerMom Creation in obtaining a Start-up Fund worth RM20,000 from the Ministry of Higher Education to carry out the social entrepreneurship project.

"I would also like to congratulate EmpowerMom Creation on their success and dedication in providing regular training to single mothers in the Batu Uban area.

"Despite a very tight academic schedule, the members of EmpowerMom remain committed to ensuring the success of this project," she added.

She further remarked, “the University leadership and I firmly support and promote initiatives like this, as they significantly contribute to the development of USM students and the betterment of the single mother community in Batu Uban.”

Meanwhile, Koh Kean Hoe, the Project Director of EmpowerMom Creation, also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the USM leadership for providing opportunities, facilities, and workforce assistance throughout this project.

He also thanked the Member of Penang State Legislative Assembly for Batu Uban, YB Kumaresan Aramugam, for his assistance in finding participants for the classes that have been running since September 2024.

"In line with SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), this programme is expected to help low-income single mothers generate income and subsequently help other single mothers through continuous knowledge transfer," he added.

Besides Kumaresan, also present at the ceremony were Senior Deputy Registrar of BHEPA, Shukeri A. Rahman; Head of the PPP Entrepreneurship and Innovation Sector, Hajar Zituakmar Mohd Fauzi; and Assistant Registrar of BHEPA, Ahmad Heidey Iskandar Mohd Rayhan.

**EmpowerMom Creation is committed to empowering B40 mothers through specialized workshops and entrepreneurial support, fostering economic independence and personal growth. Its vision is to uplift B40 mothers by equipping them with the skills and resources needed to generate sustainable income and build thriving communities.

Text: Tan Ewe Hoe/Photo: Muhamad Faris Darwisy Muhamad Rafiq

USM PENANG, 28 March 2024 – Throughout the entire holy month of Ramadan, the USM Pusat Islam (Islamic Centre) offered meals for ‘iftar’ (breaking of fast) every day to its campus community (students, staff and their families), as well as the surrounding communities in all three campuses and at the Advanced Medical & Dental Institute (IPPT) in Bertam.

This is a 40-year-old tradition practiced by USM's Pusat Islam, and at the USM Main Campus, around 2,000 to 2,500 people can be seen breaking their fast at the Al Malik Khalid Mosque compound since the first day of Ramadan.

USM Ramadan activities committee chairman cum the Deputy Director of Pusat Islam, Ustaz Zayd Zahari said that the programme is aimed at strengthening ukhuwah (brotherhood bond) among the campus community and with the local residents, including the non-Muslims.

“We have more than 300 volunteers comprising of the campus community and the general public, working together in the spirit of 'gotong-royong' and togetherness according to the daily duty roster, to prepare the iftar meals.

"Our workforce is divided into three teams, which is the team for preparing iftar ingredients, the preparation of raw materials such as the washing of chicken and meat (including cooking), and the team for serving food at the mosque.

"All preparation work starts as early as 10.00 am every day because we prepare food in large quantities," he added.

“One unique feature that has been in practice for many years is the non-Muslim students also volunteered and helped in preparing and packing the food for iftar.

"This is to give opportunities to non-Muslim students to experience the preparing of iftar meals, as well as to strengthen relationships with one another,” he said.

Meanwhile, on the preparation of the menu, Zayd said it was determined by a special committee made up of USM's own staff.

"The menus that are served up are different every day. Among the menu items that have been served are tomato rice, nasi hujan panas, nasi minyak, ayam masak merah, chicken kurma, and meat curry.

“Alhamdulillah, all the food cooked for the day will be fully distributed so that there will be no wastage," he said.

Zayd said further, those wanting to enjoy the food for breaking of fast can either break fast communally at the mosque or to take home the prepared food.

“For those opting to bring back food to their desasiswa or home, they are encouraged to bring their own food containers to fill in the food prepared.

“This is also part of the Green Ramadan campaign that the Pusat Islam is introducing for the first time this year to encourage the practice of reducing waste and using resources responsibly,” he further explained.  

In terms of funding to run this programme, Zayd said it was made possible through the generous contributions from the public, USM staff and students.

"For staff, they can have their salary deducted every month under the salary deduction system, of which the staff can choose the amount to donate.

"We also receive funds from the public, local residents and the students themselves.

“Every year, the collection is very encouraging and this further strengthens the spirit of our team to continue preparing iftar meals at the Al Malik Khalid Mosque," he added.

Text: Tan Ewe Hoe/Photo: Shahnizam Ab Rahim 

Kosmo | 8 April 2024 | Negara | ms 24&25

Kosmo | 12 Mac 2024 | Negara! | ms 12

USM PULAU PINANG, 28 Mac 2024 – Demi menyokong penuh amalan kelestarian dalam mencapai Matlamat Pembangunan Mampan (SDG), Pusat Islam Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) telah mengambil inisiatif untuk melancarkan Kempen Ramadan Hijau bersempena dengan bulan Ramadan pada tahun ini.

Kempen ini dianjurkan untuk mendorong warga USM dan masyarakat mengurangkan pembaziran dengan menggunakan semula barangan dan mengitar semula barangan yang boleh digunakan seperti bekas makanan dan beg kitar semula.

Menurut Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Induk Ramadan peringkat USM, merangkap Timbalan Pengarah Pusat Islam USM, Ustaz Zayd Zhari, inisiatif ini adalah untuk menjaga alam sekitar dengan menerapkan konsep 3R iaitu 'Reduce, Reuse and Recycle'.

“Setiap tahun sepanjang bulan Ramadan, Pusat Islam USM menyediakan juadah berbuka puasa kepada kira-kira 3,000 orang setiap hari, yang mana mereka diberi pilihan untuk berbuka puasa di masjid (tempat yang disediakan) atau membawa pulang juadah yang disediakan dengan membawa bekas makanan sendiri.

“Sebagai sebuah universiti yang mementingkan amalan kelestarian, kempen ini dilaksanakan sesuai dengan menggalakkan sifar plastik, iaitu dengan mengurangkan penggunaan produk plastik sekali guna dan menggantikan alternatif yang lebih mesra alam, iaitu dengan membawa bekas makanan sendiri. Pengagihan bubur lambuk juga tidak lagi disediakan dalam plastik.

“Selain itu, kempen ini juga berinisiatif untuk memupuk amalan penggunaan beg kitar semula yang disediakan di Pusat Islam USM, untuk membawa barangan keperluan, mengurangkan penggunaan beg plastik sekali guna, dan memberikan kesedaran kepada masyarakat tentang pentingnya pemuliharaan alam sekitar,” kata Zayd.

Tambah Zayd, kempen ini baru dilaksanakan pada Ramadan tahun ini dan berharap agar kempen seperti ini dapat diteruskan lagi pada Ramadan yang akan datang.

“Idea kempen ini terbit daripada kempen Pejabat Hijau oleh Kampus Sejahtera, yang kemudiannya diolah dalam bentuk program oleh Jawatankuasa Aktiviti Ramadan USM, yang mana kempen Ramadan Hijau ini akan berlangsung sepanjang bulan Ramadan dengan melibatkan pengurusan sumber lain,” ujarnya.

Bagi mereka yang tidak membawa bekas makanan sendiri, Pusat Islam USM menjual bekas makanan yang berharga RM2 setiap unit dan setiap pembelian akan dimasukkan ke akaun Tabung Ramadan yang disediakan oleh Pusat Islam USM.

Teks: Nur Farrah Ezlin Mohd Suhaimi

Harian Metro | 11 Mac 2024 | Addin | ms 15

Kosmo Ahad | 10 Mac 2024 | Panorama | ms 18 & 19

SOROTAN VIDEO: PUSAT RACUN NEGARA USM TERIMA 111 KES

USM PENANG, 10 April 2025 – The Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS)recently welcomed a visit from the AICHR (ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights) and ASOEN (ASEAN Senior Officials on Environment) delegates from various countries.

The visit/tour on 8 April by the 30-member delegation coincided with the discussion regarding the commitment by CEMACS on issues such as climate resilience and regional cooperation.

The discussion is hoped to acknowledge the interconnections between climate change, human rights, poverty eradication and sustainable development.

The Chairman of AICHR, Edmund Bon Tai Soon in his welcoming speech, thanked members of AICHR and ASOEN who have participated in this tour of CEMACS, in the effort to learn more about coastal biodiversity.

Beyond Research: CEMACS’ Commitment to Marine Conservation and Community Well-being

The Directorof CEMACS, Professor Dato’ Dr. Aileen Tan Shau Hwai,stated that CEMACS, initially known as Muka Head Marine Field Station in 1978, was set up to conduct research on marine science.

Being the oldest marine research centre in the country, it has been a hive of marine science activities, more so after it was rebranded as Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS), and involving postgraduate students and researchers when it established in 1991.

“With expertise in seagrass and coral reef conservation, ocean acidification studies and climate resilience research, CEMACS also provides quality skills to excel in career and life, focusing on poverty and for living communities to achieve a better life,” she said.

“Unlike other marine research centres, our focus is not only about publication, but also to foster the practice of marine conservation and preservation as the coastal life may face extinction due to climate change and marine mining,” she added.

CEMACS provides research laboratory in monitoring the exodus of growing coastal livestock such as mollusks, hard corals, starfish, clams, oysters, seagrapes, abalone, starfish, mantis shrimps and echinoderm (sea urchins and sea cucumbers).

Aileen further said, CEMACS is looking at sustainable food security measures in shaping the non-feed aquaculture, as part of holistic food-based nutrition interventions to address the issue on food security.  

This is due to the increasing demand for food and living space in alternative modes of food production, to ensure the availability of nutritious foods as part of healthy living and sustainable lifestyle.

JellyGo apps

Moreover, CEMACS had successfully launched a project ‘The Jellyfish Project’ in Penang and created a digital application (apps) called ‘JellyGo’ with the main aim to monitor and identify harmful jellyfish population especially at Penang beaches. The apps is available for download in Apple Appstore and Google Playstore.

“JellyGo application works to track and monitor jellyfish population in Penang beaches, that would enable users to upload and alert other users,” said Aileen.

Regional Hub for STEAM Education

Besides research, CEMACS is also committed to serving the regional community as an educational hub focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) education.

CEMACS is opening its doors to any institution and members of the public having the interest to learn about various natural ecosystems such as tropical forests, rivers, coastal rocky and sandy shores, and ocean ecosystem.

Community Engagement – Improving Livelihood

As part of its community involvement project, CEMACS has successfully assisted Pak Su, an oyster farmer whom later obtained a gold medal under the National Entrepreneurship Award.

From being someone who was affected by poverty and has no stable income to support his family, he was later trained by CEMACS and provided with skills and knowledge of farming oysters, which has led him to perform excellently, and being able to supply oysters to hotels, restaurants and wholesalers.

One of the delegate members then inquired on whether the success is only scalable in Malaysia, and Aileen responded by saying that there are currently about 15 communities around Malaysia, in addition to some on the Borneo side.

“Other smaller engagements include with communities in Hong Kong, Indonesia, and China, where we also built a hatchery. We do engage with communities in different countries if they seek our assistance,” Aileen said.

Aileen then explained on the challenges faced by CEMACS throughout the years. “I feel that there is a generation gap in knowledge and also in the governance, as it is very hard to engage and approach,” she said.

Hands-On Encounters with Ocean Life

A representative from the Ministry of Environment/Environmental Protection Agency Indonesia, Duwik Kurnianti later shared her experiences in CEMACS, which she found to be very interesting, as she has gained more understanding about another aspect of the environment by looking, learning and touching the different types of sea organisms like mollusks, echinoderm, crustaceans and hard coral.

“I get to see and touch a real giant clam, which weighs about 800 kg and real sea turtle shells and body parts of other oceanic organisms displayed at the CEMACS museum,” said Anna Michelle Lim from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Keeping Up with the Flow

With changing times and evolving issues, CEMACS is directing its research activities and studies to keep up with the flow.

In line with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) especially SDG 14 ‘Life Below Water’, CEMACS aims to apply research findings to community needs and is moving towards undertaking “green” mariculture and addressing future food security issues.

Text: Rebecal Armugam, Internship Student from Media and Public Relations Centre, MPRC USM/Editing: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin/Photos: Mohd Fairus Md Isa & Muhamad Faris Darwisy Mohammad Rafiq

USM PENANG, 6 June 2024 – The Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Student Representative Council (MPP) recently joined forces with Food Bank Mutiara and the USM School of Communication (SOC) to bring aid to students in need at USM SOC through the 'Communication Foodbank' initiative

The initiative was organised and led by USM MPP representative, Daneswaran A/L Muneswaran Thiagu with the aim to provide essential food and personal care items to Communication students who are in need, particularly those in the B40 category.

A total of 100 packs of frozen food and 50 goodie bags containing items such as toothpaste, shampoo, toothbrushes, and soaps were distributed to students at the C10 Building, on 6 June 2024.

Daneswaran said that the gesture was met with gratitude and appreciation by the students for the support extended, reflecting the positive impact of the 'Communication Foodbank' initiative on their lives.

“The initiative demonstrated the power of compassion and generosity in fostering a caring community,” he said.

Special thanks to the USM SOC Dean, Associate Professor Dr. Bahiyah Omar, Penang State Government and Food Bank Mutiara for their support throughout the initiative.

This collaborative effort highlights the importance of unity and compassion in supporting those who are in need of assistance.

Text: Thiviyaatharishienee A/P Kaliappan/ Photo: Siti Mashitah Kamarulzaman, Rhema Seng, Wong Suet Ying (School of Communication USM)

PENANG, 12 June 2024 – The Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) School of Communication recently organised the ‘Digitalization of Penang Entrepreneurs (D.O.P.E)’ programme, as part of the YBP230 Corporate Social Responsibility coursework.

This initiative, under the guidance of Professor Dr. Jamilah Hj Ahmad and Dr. Suriati Saad, was held at the MBPP Makerspace in Balik Pulau, Penang.

D.O.P.E aims to equip small business owners, especially in Penang, with digital knowledge by up-skilling workshops to adapt to the digital era.

The event was launched by Dato’ Seri Syed Mohamad Syed Murtaza, Chairman of the Bumiputera Foundation, Penang.

In his opening speech, he emphasised the importance of a deep understanding of advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI).

He further said, "Mastery of these technologies is key to ensuring businesses remain competitive, thereby contributing to the country's continuous and sustainable economic growth."

The event continued with business digitalization sharing sessions by Tan Gaik Tong and Chu Boon, whom were invited by Digital Penang to give the talk.

There were also activities focused on brand positioning entitled “Positioning for Success,” personally conducted by USM students. This session focused on online branding to help these small business owners refine their brand identities, set strategic goals, and develop content suited to their target audiences.

Several small and medium enterprises (SMEs) joined in the programme, namely Saji Warisan Enterprise, Body Secret Home SPA, Kick Coffee, M.E.N.U Tomyam, Gerak Dinamik Enterprise, and Spin Chicken Rice USM.

“I had a great time sharing our stories and picking up new knowledge. I look forward to participate in more programmes by USM in the future,” said Saliyana Shuhaidah from M.E.N.U Tomyam.

According to Jamilah, the programme was held to allow students to connect with the community and the industry, by understanding the needs and provide benefits that will be sustainable in nature for the target audience.

“Additionally, the CSR course has the objective of equipping students with the ability to relate the social needs of the community or target public with that of the organisation (Corporate or NGO),” she said.  

In conducting CSR effectively, the D.O.P.E event highlighted the importance of community efforts to support local businesses and promote economic growth through digital innovation.

By helping entrepreneurs with digital skills, USM students are hoping to create a stronger business environment among the SMEs in Penang.

Source text & photo: Dr. Suriati Saad, School of Communication, USM/Editing: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin

China Press | 8 Mac 2024 | pg C4