The Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), is proud to host a session in its Popular Science Seminar Series titled “Becoming a Professional Technologist (Ts): A Personal Experience.” This insightful seminar will feature Ir. Ts. Dr. Wan Rosmiza Zana Wan Dagang, a Senior Lecturer from the Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, UTM. The event will take place on Monday, 25 November 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM at Lecture Room 1, T02, Faculty of Science, UTM.
In this seminar, Dr. Wan Rosmiza will share her personal journey and experiences in becoming a Professional Technologist (Ts), a title awarded by the Malaysian Board of Technologists (MBOT). The session aims to inspire and guide students, academicians, and aspiring technologists on the importance of professional recognition and the pathway to achieving it. As a distinguished member of the Faculty of Science, Dr. Wan Rosmiza’s contributions in the field of biosciences and her professional achievements offer valuable insights into balancing academic excellence with industry-based qualifications. Attendees will gain firsthand knowledge about the process, challenges, and benefits of obtaining the Professional Technologist (Ts) credential.
This seminar offers a unique opportunity to learn from Dr. Wan Rosmiza’s experiences and understand the steps required to attain professional recognition. It aims to enhance career development by highlighting how the Ts credential can open doors to advancement and industry opportunities. Attendance for academic and support staff will be recorded in the UTMSMILE system, while student attendance will be recorded in the ACAD system.
The event is part of the Popular Science Seminar Series under the Faculty of Science’s initiative to promote knowledge sharing and professional development. Join us to discover how professional recognition can shape your career and contribute to the world of science and technology. For more information, visit science.utm.my.
Empowering Technologists: The Role of MBOT and the Journey to Professional Excellence
The Malaysian Board of Technologists (MBOT) is a distinguished professional body dedicated to recognizing and certifying technologists and technicians in Malaysia. Established under the Technologists & Technicians Act 2015 (Act 768), MBOT provides professional recognition to individuals in technology and technical fields, enhancing their standing and ensuring they contribute meaningfully to Malaysia’s development. This recognition is crucial for maintaining high standards of professionalism and supporting the nation’s transition to a high-income economy.
Speaker’s Background and Experience
The recent MBOT sharing session was delivered by Wan Rosmiza Zana Wan Dagang, whose extensive background and achievements underscore her authority on the subject. Wan Rosmiza holds a PhD in Biochemical Engineering from the University of Birmingham (UoB), UK. Her expertise is further validated by her credentials as a Professional Engineer (Chemical Engineering) and a Professional Technologist (Chemical Technology).
Her professional milestones include:
- Graduate Technologist – Recognized on 1 July 2019, marking the beginning of her professional journey with MBOT.
- Professional Technologist – Achieved this status on 9 September 2020, reflecting her commitment and competence in the field of chemical technology.
- IEM Interview for Professional Engineer (Ir) – Successfully completed this interview in August 2022, further affirming her proficiency in chemical engineering.
- Industry Experience – Completed an internship at Petro SEP Engineering Sdn. Bhd. (PSE) from 1 March 2020 to 28 February 2021 under the Process Engineering Department. During this period, she was mentored by Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Sharifah Rafidah Wan Alwi from the Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering (FKT). This experience provided her with extensive hands-on knowledge and skills in process engineering, reinforcing her technical capabilities.
Wan Rosmiza’s journey through various professional recognitions highlights the structured pathway MBOT provides for technologists and technicians. Her experiences serve as a testament to the importance of continuous professional development and the value of professional bodies like MBOT in shaping competent and ethical practitioners.
MBOT’s Vision, Mission, and Objectives
MBOT’s mission is to elevate the standing, visibility, and recognition of technologists and technicians. Its vision is to be a world-class professional body that sets the standard for professional practice in technical fields. MBOT’s core objective is to increase the pool of skilled professionals necessary for a high-income economy while safeguarding public safety and health.
Key Functions of MBOT
Wan Rosmiza’s talk highlighted MBOT’s core functions as stipulated by Section 5 of Act 768:
- Recognition and Registration: MBOT registers technologists and technicians as professionals, providing them with credentials that enhance career opportunities and credibility.
- Professional Development: MBOT supports lifelong learning through education, training, and professional development programs. These professional development initiatives help enhance the knowledge and skills of technologists and technicians.
- Ethical Regulation: MBOT ensures professionals adhere to ethical standards, fostering integrity and accountability in technical practices.
- Assessment and Certification: To maintain high standards, MBOT conducts rigorous assessments to qualify individuals for professional registration.
- General Oversight: MBOT is empowered to take necessary actions to fulfill its mandate, ensuring the organization remains effective and relevant.
Speaker’s Insights on Professional Development
Drawing from her experience, Wan Rosmiza emphasized the importance of professional recognition in advancing one’s career. Her journey through MBOT certifications, the IEM interview process, and her internship at Petro SEP Engineering Sdn. Bhd. under the guidance of Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Sharifah Rafidah Wan Alwi highlights the value of structured assessments, mentorship, and hands-on industry exposure. This combination of academic rigor and practical experience equips professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their fields.
Wan Rosmiza’s internship experience in the Process Engineering Department at PSE further illustrates the importance of industry engagement. It allowed her to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings, solve real-world engineering challenges, and develop essential professional skills. Her success underscores the need for technologists to engage with industry mentors and continuously seek opportunities for growth.
Conclusion
The Malaysian Board of Technologists (MBOT) plays a pivotal role in recognizing and elevating the status of technologists and technicians in Malaysia. Through professional recognition, ethical regulation, and continuous development opportunities, MBOT ensures that its members are competent, ethical, and ready to contribute to national progress. Wan Rosmiza Zana Wan Dagang’s journey exemplifies the pathway of growth and success that MBOT facilitates, highlighting the importance of structured professional development, industry experience, and mentorship. Her story serves as an inspiration for current and future technologists to pursue excellence and uphold the high standards set by MBOT.