USM Strengthens Academic Ties with Huaqiao University in Low-Carbon and Biomass Research

16 October 2025 – The School of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) was honoured to welcome a delegation from Huaqiao University (HQU), China, in a visit aimed at strengthening academic and research collaboration between the two institutions, particularly in the areas of low-carbon technologies and high-value biomass utilisation.

 The delegation was led by Professor Huang Hui, Vice President of HQU, accompanied by Professor Jing Guohua, Dean of the Graduate School; Professor Xue Xiujun, Dean of the Academy of Scientific Research; and Professor Lin Chunpei, Dean of the International School.

The visit was initiated through the efforts of Professor Dr. Ahmad Zuhairi Abdullah from the School of Chemical Engineering, who currently serves as a Visiting Professor at Huaqiao University. Professor Ahmad Zuhairi had recently visited HQU from 29 September to 3 October 2025, where he facilitated discussions that paved the way for this institutional engagement. He was also present during the delegation’s visit to USM.



The delegation was warmly received by Professor Ir. Dr. Zainal Ahmad, Dean of the School of Chemical Engineering, together with Associate Professor Dr. Vel Murugan, Deputy Dean, and several members of academic staff. The session began with an introductory presentation by the Dean, highlighting the School’s academic structure, research areas, and strategic direction. This was followed by presentations from USM researchers showcasing ongoing projects aligned with HQU’s research interests.

Both parties engaged in fruitful discussions and expressed strong interest in pursuing joint research projects, as well as exploring opportunities for academic staff exchange, postgraduate mobility, and potential dual or joint postgraduate programmes in the future.

This visit marks a significant step forward in fostering a long-term partnership between Universiti Sains Malaysia and Huaqiao University. The collaboration is expected to open new avenues in sustainable engineering research, particularly in advancing low-carbon innovations and biomass valorisation, strengthening both institutions’ roles in addressing global sustainability challenges.

Prepared by: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vel Murugan

Photo: Mohd Faizal Abu Bakar