The Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), is proud to announce the publication of the FRESH Newsletter August Edition (Issue 02/2025)—a vibrant and inspiring chronicle of scientific excellence, community outreach, and academic achievements that continue to define UTM as a global leader in research and innovation.
Curated by the FS Research Hub, this second issue for 2025 presents a powerful narrative of the Faculty’s dynamic ecosystem, showcasing breakthroughs across disciplines, cutting-edge technologies, and meaningful collaborations. The full newsletter is now available online at:
🔗 https://science.utm.my/fresh-newsletter-fs/
From Smelly Flowers to Smart Batteries: Science for a Sustainable Future
This edition opens with a feature article on Amorphophallus paeoniifolius—locally known as Ubi Sarek or the “smelly flower.” Authored by researchers from the Natural Product Research Group (NatPro), the article reframes this misunderstood tuber as a sustainable food source with the potential to combat global food insecurity.
In another thought-provoking piece, researchers from the Department of Physics delve into machine learning applications in particle physics, describing how AI is revolutionizing data processing at facilities like CERN and driving breakthroughs in understanding the universe’s fundamental particles.
Meanwhile, a materials science team led by Dr. Nur Hidayah Ahmad unveils a new proton-conducting polymer electrolyte based on carboxymethyl cellulose and zinc oxide—an eco-friendly innovation designed for rechargeable proton batteries and future energy storage solutions.
Bridging Research and Community: Roselle Lip Balm, Smart Vermicompost & STEM Outreach
This issue continues to emphasize UTM’s community-centric mission. A standout story documents the transformation of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) into a natural cosmetic product through a Knowledge Transfer Programme (KTP) with SMK Skudai. Led by Ts. Dr. Siti Pauliena Mohd Bohari, the initiative not only taught teachers and students to formulate organic lip balms but also encouraged sustainability and STEM entrepreneurship.
Similarly, a collaborative program between UTM and SK Sri Pulai Perdana introduced parents and teachers to IoT-based smart vermicomposting, demonstrating how simple green technologies can be integrated into daily life and environmental education.
Ethics in Research: Environmental Enrichment in Laboratory Rodents
A timely and important article explores ethical enrichment for laboratory rodents, authored by Dr. Farah Hanis Juhari. The piece sheds light on the scientific and moral imperatives of animal welfare through enrichment techniques like “rat tickling,” nesting, and sensory stimulation—enhancing both animal well-being and the reliability of scientific results. Grounded in the 3Rs and Five Freedoms, this article elevates the conversation around responsible research conduct.
Seminars, Science Diplomacy & Global Recognition
The August edition also celebrates international engagement and recognition:
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Prof. Dr. Fahrul Zaman Huyop and Dr. Nik Ahmad Nizam Nik Malek represented UTM at prestigious international conferences in Indonesia.
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Prof. Dr. Suhairul Hashim’s AI-powered cargo scanning innovation reached the Southeast Asian market.
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Dr. See Hong Heng, Dr. Rosnita Muhammad, and Prof. Nor Haniza Sarmin earned major academic awards and publication milestones.
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Popular Science Seminars featured experts like Prof. Ingo Koeper, Prof. Peng Gao, and Prof. Michael Breadmore, enriching local research culture and offering global insights.
Strengthening ASEAN and Industry Ties
Strategic partnerships also took center stage. UTM signed new MoUs with Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Universitas Airlangga, and Tishk International University, while ICOWOBAS 2025 served as a regional platform for interdisciplinary research. Engagements with Cemseal Industries, Nufiya Empire, and Shimadzu Malaysia highlighted the faculty’s commitment to translating science into real-world solutions.
Scientific Publishing and Future Readiness
From publication clinics and scientific writing workshops to new books like “Thin Films and Nanofilms” and “Multivariate Statistical Analysis with R”, the newsletter emphasizes capacity-building in scientific communication and technical literacy. Faculty members were also celebrated for winning Citra Karisma 2025 awards for editorial excellence.
Access the Full Edition
The FRESH Newsletter (Issue 02/2025) not only reflects the accomplishments of the Faculty of Science but also inspires future innovations across science, technology, and society.
🔗 Read the full issue at: https://science.utm.my/fresh-newsletter-fs/
📘 E-ISSN: 2976-3436 | 📅 First Print: 2021
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