USM Chemical Engineering and Prince of Songkla University Explore New Frontiers for Research Collaboration

11 September 2026 – The School of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) welcomed a delegation from the Faculty of Science and Industrial Technology, Prince of Songkla University (PSU), Surat Thani Campus, Thailand, in an academic engagement session aimed at exploring potential areas of collaboration and expanding the international research network of both institutions.

The visit was held at 3.00 pm. in the Meeting Room, School of Chemical Engineering, and brought together academic staff and students from both institutions for an exchange of research expertise, ideas, and opportunities for future cooperation.

Strengthening Institutional Connections

The USM delegation was led by the Dean of the School of Chemical Engineering, Professor Ir. Dr. Zainal Ahmad, together with the Deputy Dean (Academic and International), Associate Professor Dr. Azam Taufiq Mohd Din, and Deputy Dean (Research and Postgraduate), Associate Professor Dr. Vel Murugan Vadivelu.

Also participating in the engagement were academic staff from the School, including Professor Dr. Ooi Boon Seng, Associate Professor Dr. Derek Chan, Ir. Dr.-Ing. Noor Ashrina Abd. Hamid, Dr. Nur Ayshah Rosli, Dr. Fadzil Noor Gonawan, Professor Dr. Low Siew Chun, and Professor Dr. Lim Jit Kang.

The delegation from Prince of Songkla University included five academic staff members and seven undergraduate and postgraduate students, led by Assistant Professor Dr. Sutida Marthosa. The delegation also included Associate Professor Dr. Narissara Mahathaninwong, Associate Professor Dr. Pattama Senthong, Assistant Professor Dr. Pattaraporn Warintarawej, and Assistant Professor Dr. Paisan Rittigul.

Exploring Diverse Research Strengths

The visit aimed to initiate future collaboration while broadening the academic and research networks of both institutions. The wide range of expertise represented by the delegation provided an opportunity to identify complementary research strengths and potential areas for joint initiatives.

The research areas discussed encompassed fuel cells, energy, membrane materials, productivity improvement, metals and alloys, material characterisation, alloy heat treatment, manufacturing processes, health and ergonomic risk assessment, environmental health, industrial safety and data science.

The breadth of these research areas provided a strong foundation for exploring multidisciplinary collaboration between the two institutions.

Showcasing Laboratory Facilities

As part of the visit, the delegation was taken on a tour of the Unit Operation and Process Control Laboratories at the School of Chemical Engineering. The visitors were then introduced to the available facilities and key equipment used for teaching, research, and practical training.

The laboratory visit provided the PSU delegates and students with an opportunity to gain first-hand exposure to the research and teaching infrastructure available at USM, while also facilitating

discussions on the potential utilisation of complementary facilities for future collaborative research activities.

Identifying Opportunities for Joint Research

The engagement continued with presentations by representatives from both institutions on their respective research expertise and ongoing projects. These presentations allowed participants to identify similarities and complementary strengths that could form the basis for future cooperation.

Among the potential areas discussed were joint research projects and proposal submissions, co-supervision of postgraduate students, short-term research attachments, joint publications, and participation in academic conferences.

The discussions also highlighted the value of student mobility and researcher exchange in developing stronger academic networks and providing students with wider exposure to international research environments.

Looking Ahead: Building Stronger Partnerships Together

The visit marks another meaningful step towards strengthening academic and research connections between USM and Prince of Songkla University. Moving forward, both institutions are encouraged to turn shared expertise into joint research, student opportunities and impactful innovations that can address emerging challenges in engineering, energy, materials and sustainability. Through continued collaboration, knowledge exchange and active engagement, the School of Chemical Engineering looks forward to building a stronger regional research network and creating opportunities that inspire the next generation of engineers and researchers.

Text by: MHU

Photos: AAO