NIBONG TEBAL, 12 August 2024 – In a significant step towards academic and research excellence, the Engineering Campus of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has entered into a strategic partnership with Advanced Energy Sdn. Bhd., a prominent player in the precision technology manufacturing industry.

According to USM Engineering Campus Director, Professor Datin Dr. Azlina Harun @ Kamaruddin, the collaboration aims to promote academic excellence, knowledge sharing and advanced research endeavours that will benefit both the university and the industry.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, she highlighted the immense potential of this partnership, stating that the collaboration between the university and industry has the potential to facilitate another significant achievement that will benefit both parties.

"The partnership will focus on two key research areas, with agreements signed to facilitate collaborative research as well as the development of highly skilled students and researchers, while emphasising industry-based research that integrates academic knowledge with practical applications in the field," said Azlina.

"At USM, particularly at the Engineering Campus, we are honoured to have the commitment and support of Advanced Energy in the advancement of our students and research, especially in the areas of electrical, electronic, mechanical and manufacturing engineering," she added.

Meanwhile, the General Manager of Advanced Energy Industries (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd, Ahmad Abdelnaby, said in his speech that they are aware of USM's excellent reputation and strong commitment to create a stronger academic presence.

"This would allow us to strategically leverage USM's global competitiveness as we continue to invest more resources to enhance the knowledge and development of power modules," he said.

"We understand that a collaborative relationship with a university or institution of academic excellence is not an option, but rather a necessity.

"Therefore, the signing of today's agreement symbolises a great partnership that we believe will lead to many new joint research initiatives that will create synergies and add value for both parties, while taking the cooperation to another significant step forward," Abdelnaby added.

Through the partnership, the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering will lead the research in artificial intelligence, computer science and robotics while the School of Mechanical Engineering will focus on mechanical engineering, machine inspection and manufacturing processes.

Also present were the Vice President of Finance & Accounting of Advanced Energy Industries (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Pragalathen Krishnan; Director of Regional ME Plasma Power & HVP, Global Operations Advanced Energy Industries (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd, WB Ang; Dean of the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Professor Ir. Ts. Dr. Shahrel Azmin Sundi @ Suandi; Deputy Dean of Academic, Career & International of the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Associate Professor Dr. Abdullah Aziz Saad; and Director of Human Resources, Advanced Energy Industries (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd, Masliza Mansor.

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