NIBONG TEBAL, 9 July 2025 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), through the School of Materials and Mineral Resources Engineering (PPKBSM), today signed a formal collaboration agreement with KL Larut Sdn. Bhd., reinforcing the synergy between academia and industry in advancing Malaysia’s mineral development.

According to PPKBSM Dean, Professor Ts. Dr. Zulkifli Mohamad Ariff, the collaboration goes beyond a black-and-white document and symbolises mutual trust that academia and industry must move forward in tandem to face the challenges of the mining sector and natural resource development in a more sustainable way.

“This ceremony reflects the shared commitment of both parties as USM, as a research university prioritising knowledge and innovation, and KL Larut as one of the main players in Malaysia’s tin mining industry, to build a more responsive and resilient mineral research and development ecosystem,” he said.

He added that the partnership is in line with the aspirations of Malaysia’s Third National Mineral Policy (DMN3), which focuses on high-impact research, the development of local technologies, and environmental preservation in mining practices.

“At PPKBSM, we warmly welcome the wide-ranging opportunities this partnership brings, especially for our students,” he said.

“It provides them with a chance not only to learn theories but also to understand the realities of how engineering decisions affect operations, the environment, and communities,” he added.

He further stressed that collaboration between academic researchers and field engineers is key to solving real-world industry challenges.

With KL Larut’s technical expertise and USM’s research facilities, Zulkifli is confident that the partnership will produce impactful research with practical applications.

Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of KL Larut Sdn. Bhd., Dr. Pathmanathan a/l M. Kumarasamy, in his speech, highlighted that the signing of this agreement is not just a strategic step but proof that success in the industry depends on how knowledge is applied with the right value sequence.

“We all have knowledge and skills, but only when these are applied ethically and effectively do they become a true force that generates positive impact not only for the industry but for society at large,” said Pathmanathan.

He concluded by expressing hope that this collaboration would become the foundation for broader research networks, foster local mineral technology development, and provide holistic learning experiences for USM’s engineering students.

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