{"id":2392,"date":"2025-09-25T08:54:47","date_gmt":"2025-09-25T08:54:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/science.utm.my\/utmfsresearch\/?p=2392"},"modified":"2025-09-26T02:40:55","modified_gmt":"2025-09-26T02:40:55","slug":"fresh-newsletter-august-2025-edition-highlights-fs-utms-research-innovation-and-community-impact","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/science.utm.my\/utmfsresearch\/2025\/09\/25\/fresh-newsletter-august-2025-edition-highlights-fs-utms-research-innovation-and-community-impact\/","title":{"rendered":"FRESH Newsletter August 2025 Edition Highlights FS UTM\u2019s Research, Innovation, and Community Impact"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; column_structure=&#8221;1_2,1_2&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"237\" data-end=\"574\">The Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), is proud to announce the publication of the <strong data-start=\"342\" data-end=\"393\">FRESH Newsletter August Edition (Issue 02\/2025)<\/strong>\u2014a 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.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"576\" data-end=\"955\">Curated by the <strong data-start=\"591\" data-end=\"610\">FS Research Hub<\/strong>, this second issue for 2025 presents a powerful narrative of the Faculty\u2019s dynamic ecosystem, showcasing breakthroughs across disciplines, cutting-edge technologies, and meaningful collaborations. The full newsletter is now available online at:<br data-start=\"855\" data-end=\"858\" \/>\ud83d\udd17 <strong data-start=\"861\" data-end=\"955\"><a data-start=\"863\" data-end=\"953\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_new\" class=\"decorated-link\" href=\"https:\/\/science.utm.my\/fresh-newsletter-fs\/\">https:\/\/science.utm.my\/fresh-newsletter-fs\/<span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"ms-0.5 inline-block align-middle leading-none\"><\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"957\" data-end=\"960\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"962\" data-end=\"1042\"><strong data-start=\"966\" data-end=\"1042\">From Smelly Flowers to Smart Batteries: Science for a Sustainable Future<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"1044\" data-end=\"1376\">This edition opens with a feature article on <strong data-start=\"1089\" data-end=\"1121\">Amorphophallus paeoniifolius<\/strong>\u2014locally known as <em data-start=\"1139\" data-end=\"1150\">Ubi Sarek<\/em> or the \u201csmelly flower.\u201d 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.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1378\" data-end=\"1680\">In another thought-provoking piece, researchers from the Department of Physics delve into <strong data-start=\"1468\" data-end=\"1521\">machine learning applications in particle physics<\/strong>, describing how AI is revolutionizing data processing at facilities like CERN and driving breakthroughs in understanding the universe\u2019s fundamental particles.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1682\" data-end=\"1961\">Meanwhile, a materials science team led by <strong data-start=\"1725\" data-end=\"1750\">Dr. Nur Hidayah Ahmad<\/strong> unveils a new <strong data-start=\"1765\" data-end=\"1806\">proton-conducting polymer electrolyte<\/strong> based on carboxymethyl cellulose and zinc oxide\u2014an eco-friendly innovation designed for rechargeable proton batteries and future energy storage solutions.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"1963\" data-end=\"1966\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"1968\" data-end=\"2061\"><strong data-start=\"1972\" data-end=\"2061\">Bridging Research and Community: Roselle Lip Balm, Smart Vermicompost &amp; STEM Outreach<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2063\" data-end=\"2500\">This issue continues to emphasize UTM\u2019s community-centric mission. A standout story documents the transformation of roselle (<em data-start=\"2188\" data-end=\"2209\">Hibiscus sabdariffa<\/em>) into a natural cosmetic product through a <strong data-start=\"2253\" data-end=\"2291\">Knowledge Transfer Programme (KTP)<\/strong> with SMK Skudai. Led by <strong data-start=\"2316\" data-end=\"2353\">Ts. Dr. Siti Pauliena Mohd Bohari<\/strong>, the initiative not only taught teachers and students to formulate organic lip balms but also encouraged sustainability and STEM entrepreneurship.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2502\" data-end=\"2752\">Similarly, a collaborative program between UTM and SK Sri Pulai Perdana introduced parents and teachers to <strong data-start=\"2609\" data-end=\"2644\">IoT-based smart vermicomposting<\/strong>, demonstrating how simple green technologies can be integrated into daily life and environmental education.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"2754\" data-end=\"2757\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"2759\" data-end=\"2833\"><strong data-start=\"2763\" data-end=\"2833\">Ethics in Research: Environmental Enrichment in Laboratory Rodents<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"2835\" data-end=\"3316\">A timely and important article explores <strong data-start=\"2875\" data-end=\"2920\">ethical enrichment for laboratory rodents<\/strong>, authored by <strong data-start=\"2934\" data-end=\"2960\">Dr. Farah Hanis Juhari<\/strong>. The piece sheds light on the scientific and moral imperatives of animal welfare through enrichment techniques like \u201crat tickling,\u201d nesting, and sensory stimulation\u2014enhancing 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.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"3318\" data-end=\"3321\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"3323\" data-end=\"3379\"><strong data-start=\"3327\" data-end=\"3379\">Seminars, Science Diplomacy &amp; Global Recognition<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"3381\" data-end=\"3459\">The August edition also celebrates international engagement and recognition:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3460\" data-end=\"4044\">\n<li data-start=\"3460\" data-end=\"3605\">\n<p data-start=\"3462\" data-end=\"3605\"><strong data-start=\"3462\" data-end=\"3494\">Prof. Dr. Fahrul Zaman Huyop<\/strong> and <strong data-start=\"3499\" data-end=\"3532\">Dr. Nik Ahmad Nizam Nik Malek<\/strong> represented UTM at prestigious international conferences in Indonesia.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3606\" data-end=\"3714\">\n<p data-start=\"3608\" data-end=\"3714\"><strong data-start=\"3608\" data-end=\"3639\">Prof. Dr. Suhairul Hashim\u2019s<\/strong> AI-powered cargo scanning innovation reached the Southeast Asian market.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3715\" data-end=\"3856\">\n<p data-start=\"3717\" data-end=\"3856\"><strong data-start=\"3717\" data-end=\"3738\">Dr. See Hong Heng<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"3740\" data-end=\"3764\">Dr. Rosnita Muhammad<\/strong>, and <strong data-start=\"3770\" data-end=\"3797\">Prof. Nor Haniza Sarmin<\/strong> earned major academic awards and publication milestones.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3857\" data-end=\"4044\">\n<p data-start=\"3859\" data-end=\"4044\">Popular Science Seminars featured experts like <strong data-start=\"3906\" data-end=\"3927\">Prof. Ingo Koeper<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"3929\" data-end=\"3947\">Prof. Peng Gao<\/strong>, and <strong data-start=\"3953\" data-end=\"3980\">Prof. Michael Breadmore<\/strong>, enriching local research culture and offering global insights.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr data-start=\"4046\" data-end=\"4049\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"4051\" data-end=\"4096\"><strong data-start=\"4055\" data-end=\"4096\">Strengthening ASEAN and Industry Ties<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4098\" data-end=\"4525\">Strategic partnerships also took center stage. UTM signed new <strong data-start=\"4160\" data-end=\"4225\">MoUs with Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Universitas Airlangga<\/strong>, and <strong data-start=\"4231\" data-end=\"4265\">Tishk International University<\/strong>, while <strong data-start=\"4273\" data-end=\"4290\">ICOWOBAS 2025<\/strong> served as a regional platform for interdisciplinary research. Engagements with <strong data-start=\"4370\" data-end=\"4392\">Cemseal Industries<\/strong>, <strong data-start=\"4394\" data-end=\"4411\">Nufiya Empire<\/strong>, and <strong data-start=\"4417\" data-end=\"4438\">Shimadzu Malaysia<\/strong> highlighted the faculty\u2019s commitment to translating science into real-world solutions.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"4527\" data-end=\"4530\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"4532\" data-end=\"4582\"><strong data-start=\"4536\" data-end=\"4582\">Scientific Publishing and Future Readiness<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4584\" data-end=\"4939\">From publication clinics and scientific writing workshops to new books like <em data-start=\"4660\" data-end=\"4688\">\u201cThin Films and Nanofilms\u201d<\/em> and <em data-start=\"4693\" data-end=\"4737\">\u201cMultivariate Statistical Analysis with R\u201d<\/em>, the newsletter emphasizes capacity-building in scientific communication and technical literacy. Faculty members were also celebrated for winning <strong data-start=\"4884\" data-end=\"4906\">Citra Karisma 2025<\/strong> awards for editorial excellence.<\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"4941\" data-end=\"4944\" \/>\n<h3 data-start=\"4946\" data-end=\"4977\"><strong data-start=\"4950\" data-end=\"4977\">Access the Full Edition<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"4979\" data-end=\"5163\">The <strong data-start=\"4983\" data-end=\"5019\">FRESH Newsletter (Issue 02\/2025)<\/strong> not only reflects the accomplishments of the Faculty of Science but also inspires future innovations across science, technology, and society.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"5165\" data-end=\"5489\">\ud83d\udd17 <strong data-start=\"5168\" data-end=\"5195\">Read the full issue at:<\/strong> <a data-start=\"5196\" data-end=\"5286\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_new\" class=\"decorated-link\" href=\"https:\/\/science.utm.my\/fresh-newsletter-fs\/\">https:\/\/science.utm.my\/fresh-newsletter-fs\/<span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"ms-0.5 inline-block align-middle leading-none\"><\/span><\/a><br data-start=\"5286\" data-end=\"5289\" \/>\ud83d\udcd8 <strong data-start=\"5292\" data-end=\"5303\">E-ISSN:<\/strong> 2976-3436 | \ud83d\udcc5 <strong data-start=\"5319\" data-end=\"5335\">First Print:<\/strong> 2021<br data-start=\"5340\" data-end=\"5343\" \/>\ud83d\udccc Follow updates at: <a data-start=\"5365\" data-end=\"5415\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_new\" class=\"decorated-link\" href=\"https:\/\/science.utm.my\/\">https:\/\/science.utm.my\/<span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"ms-0.5 inline-block align-middle leading-none\"><\/span><\/a> | <a data-start=\"5418\" data-end=\"5489\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_new\" class=\"decorated-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/FakultiSainsUTM\">Facebook: Fakulti Sains UTM<span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"ms-0.5 inline-block align-middle leading-none\"><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<hr data-start=\"5491\" data-end=\"5494\" \/>\n<p data-start=\"5496\" data-end=\"5631\"><strong data-start=\"5496\" data-end=\"5551\">Faculty of Science \u2013 Where Great Minds Are Nurtured<\/strong><br data-start=\"5551\" data-end=\"5554\" \/>#UTMFSResearch #FRESHNewsletter #UTMScience #InnovationMatters #STEM4Future<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;http:\/\/science.utm.my\/utmfsresearch\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/642\/2025\/09\/FRESH-August-2025.jpg&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; title_text=&#8221;FRESH August 2025&#8243; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_image src=&#8221;data:image\/svg+xml;base64,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&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), is proud to announce the publication of the FRESH Newsletter August Edition (Issue 02\/2025)\u2014a 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 [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":390,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[13,12,5],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2392","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-activities-2025","category-announcements","category-awards-achievements"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/science.utm.my\/utmfsresearch\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2392","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/science.utm.my\/utmfsresearch\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/science.utm.my\/utmfsresearch\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/science.utm.my\/utmfsresearch\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/390"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/science.utm.my\/utmfsresearch\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2392"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/science.utm.my\/utmfsresearch\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2392\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2398,"href":"https:\/\/science.utm.my\/utmfsresearch\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2392\/revisions\/2398"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/science.utm.my\/utmfsresearch\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2392"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/science.utm.my\/utmfsresearch\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2392"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/science.utm.my\/utmfsresearch\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2392"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}