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Johor Bahru, 11 August 2025<\/em> \u2013 The Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), successfully held another instalment of its Faculty of Science Seminar Series 2025 \u2013 Popular Science Seminar Series<\/strong>, featuring two distinguished speakers from Malaysia and Japan. The event, titled \u201cRedefining Plastics: Innovations Toward a Sustainable Future\u201d<\/strong>, took place from 10.00 AM to 12.00 PM at UTM HELIxS, Block C17<\/strong>, and attracted 65 participants<\/strong>, including academic staff, researchers, and students eager to explore breakthroughs in polymer science and green chemistry.<\/p>\n Organised in collaboration with Tokyo Metropolitan University (TMU)<\/strong> and Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Cawangan Sarawak<\/strong>, the seminar underscored the vital role of international partnerships in advancing research on sustainable materials.<\/p>\n The seminar featured two impactful research talks:<\/p>\n \ud83d\udd39 Distinguished Professor Dr. Kotohiro Nomura<\/strong> from Tokyo Metropolitan University delivered a presentation titled \u201cDesign of Chemically Recyclable Biobased Polyesters, and Exclusive Chemical Recycling, Upcycling of Polyesters.\u201d<\/em> His session showcased cutting-edge strategies for the development of eco-friendly polyesters that are not only biobased but also fully recyclable\u2014offering immense promise for reducing plastic waste and enabling circular economy solutions.<\/p>\n \ud83d\udd39 Dr. Naharullah Jamaluddin<\/strong> from the Faculty of Science, UTM, presented his research on \u201cPolymerization of Polyvinyl using Green Approach of Deep Eutectic Solvents.\u201d<\/em> His approach leverages sustainable, low-toxicity solvents such as choline chloride and glycerol\u2014highlighting the potential of green chemistry in producing high-performance materials with reduced environmental impact.<\/p>\n The event was also accessible via Webex<\/strong> to enable participation from a broader audience. A hybrid format allowed both local and international attendees to benefit from the knowledge exchange. The programme concluded with an engaging Q&A session, a lab tour around the Faculty of Science, and networking over lunch and tea.<\/p>\n Despite minor challenges in balancing physical and online experiences, the organizing committee\u2014led by Dr. Naharullah and supported by UTM and UiTM Sarawak\u2014provided recorded demonstrations and learning materials to ensure equitable access for all participants.<\/p>\n Participants received Continuing Professional Development (CPD)<\/strong> recognition, marking the seminar\u2019s value in fostering professional growth and academic excellence.<\/p>\n This event not only achieved its goal of increasing awareness of sustainable polymer technologies but also opened pathways for deeper collaboration between UTM, TMU, and UiTM. Discussions with faculty administrators also explored future joint research and academic ventures.<\/p>\nA Platform for Global Knowledge Sharing<\/h3>\n
Hybrid Format, Lasting Impact<\/h3>\n
Strengthening Global and Interfaculty Collaboration<\/h3>\n