Surabaya, Indonesia – The Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), has successfully enhanced its international research collaboration through an academic and research networking program with the Research Center for Bio-Molecule Engineering (Biome), Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR). The program, held from 12 to 14 June 2025 in Surabaya, marked a significant milestone in UTM’s efforts to expand its global footprint in the fields of biotechnology and biomolecular engineering.
Led by Dr. Nur Izzati Mohd Noh (Chairperson of the MoU UNAIR-UTM) and joined by Dr. Siti Halimah Hasmoni, Prof. Madya Dr. Nor Azimah Mohd Zain, from Department of Biosciences and ChM. Anthony Nyangson Steven from Department of Chemistry, the UTM delegation engaged in strategic discussions and research presentations with UNAIR’s BioMe team.
Among the highlights was UTM’s participation in the 5th ASEAN Microbial Biotechnology Conference, where UTM researchers presented their latest findings alongside keynote speakers such as Dr. Almando Geraldi (Director of BioMe), Prof. Kazuhito Fujiyama (Osaka University), and Dr. Lily Eurwilaichitr (NSTDA, Thailand). These engagements not only showcased UTM’s research excellence but also fostered new collaborations across the ASEAN region.
A pivotal outcome of the visit was UTM’s official acceptance as a member of the ASEAN Network on Microbial Utilization (AnMicro), joining other Malaysian institutions such as UPM and MARDI. This membership underscores UTM’s commitment to contributing towards sustainable microbial resource management and advancing human capital development in ASEAN.
The Faculty of Science expressed deep appreciation to Universitas Airlangga, the BioMe research center, and the conference organizers for their warm hospitality and invaluable support. Special thanks were also extended to Dr. Nazrin for facilitating the linkages and to the management of the Faculty of Science, UTM, for endorsing this important initiative.
For more on UTM’s research and international collaborations, visit: https://science.utm.my/utmfsresearch
