SDG #14: Life Below Water
Conserve and sustainably use oceans and marine resources
0
Active Initiatives
76
Publications
2020–2025
0
Future Goals
Our Impact
Marine ecosystems and coastal communities
Beneficiaries
30% elimination of single-use plastics
Plastic Reduction
1 tons marine debris removed
Cleanup
UTAR Initiatives
Marine conservation research protecting endangered species.
Plastic reduction campaigns eliminating 30% single-use plastics on campus.
Ocean cleanup projects removing 1 tons of debris.
Aquaculture research project at lake K11.
Sustainable fishing practices research supporting local communities.
Aquaculture project collaboration with industry and local university.
Life Below Water @ UTAR
Advancing marine conservation through evidence-based research, institutional policies, and measurable impact initiatives that align with THE Impact Rankings methodology for SDG 14 assessment
30%
Plastic Reduction
1 tons
Marine Debris Removed
Our Commitment to Life Below Water Conservation
At Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), we recognize the critical importance of marine ecosystems and are committed to protecting life below water through comprehensive research, policy development, and community engagement. Our approach to SDG 14 encompasses marine pollution reduction, sustainable fisheries management, and ocean conservation initiatives that contribute to global marine protection efforts.
Through our robust policy framework addressing marine pollution prevention and sustainable aquatic food systems, UTAR demonstrates leadership in ocean stewardship. Our initiatives include plastic waste elimination, sustainable seafood procurement, and marine research programs that advance scientific understanding of ocean ecosystems and their protection.
Our commitment extends beyond campus boundaries through partnerships with marine conservation organizations, coastal communities, and government agencies. By fostering marine literacy and developing innovative solutions, UTAR contributes to building ocean resilience and advancing global marine conservation efforts.
Our Life Below Water Conservation Principles
Pollution Prevention
Comprehensive policies and practices to eliminate marine pollution through plastic reduction, waste management, and sustainable consumption patterns across all university operations.
Sustainable Aquaculture
Promoting responsible sourcing of aquatic foods through sustainable procurement policies, research on aquaculture practices, and support for local fishing communities.
Ecosystem Protection
Supporting marine biodiversity conservation through research, habitat restoration projects, and partnerships with marine protected areas and conservation organizations.
Life Below Water Conservation Achievements
30%
Single-Use Plastic Elimination
1 tons
Marine Debris Removed Annual
2 aquaculture lakes
Aquaculture
1,000+
Students Educated Anually
Our Strategic Life Below Water Conservation Approach
Policy Framework
Comprehensive policies addressing marine pollution reduction, sustainable seafood procurement, and plastic waste elimination across all university operations.
Research Innovation
Leading research in marine biology, ocean pollution, and sustainable aquaculture to develop practical solutions for marine ecosystem protection.
Community Engagement
Extensive outreach programs educating communities about life below water conservation practices and promoting behaviour change for water sources protection.
UTAR Marine Protection Policies
Robust policy framework ensuring responsible marine stewardship and sustainable ocean practices
Reducing Marine Pollution Policy
Comprehensive institutional policy framework addressing all sources of marine pollution through systematic elimination of harmful substances, implementation of sustainable practices, and prevention of pollutants from reaching marine ecosystems.
Policy components
- Single-use plastic elimination
- Chemical runoff prevention
- Stormwater quality management
- Marine-safe product standards
Implementation Measures
- Waste stream monitoring
- Vendor compliance briefing
- Community education for students, staff and visitors on marine protection
Food from Aquatic Ecosystems Policy
Comprehensive sustainable seafood procurement policy ensuring all aquatic foods meet rigorous sustainability certifications, support responsible fishing practices, and contribute to marine ecosystem conservation while promoting local fishing communities and ensuring supply chain transparency.
Sustainability Standards
- Local sourcing priority
- Traceability requirements
- Endangered species protection
Community Support Programmes
- Fisher community partnerships
- Sustainable aquaculture training
Action Plan to Reducing Plastic Waste
UTAR is committed to reducing plastic waste through a structured and measurable action plan. Our efforts are guided by three key sustainability policies:
- Plastic Waste Reduction Policy: Degradable Plastic Bags and Straws Usage (Previously known as Expanded Polystyrene usage regulation in 2020)
- Expanded Polystyrene Usage Policy (Previously known as expanded polystyrene usage regulations in 2020)
- Recycling Policy
These policies apply to all cafeteria operators, pushcart vendors, event organisers, and suppliers operating within the University.
The objective is to significantly reduce non-degradable plastics, including plastic bags, straws, and EPS packaging, while promoting sustainable alternatives and improving recycling practices.
Plastic Reduction Target Timeline (2020–2030)
| Year | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 | 2027 | 2028 | 2029 | 2030 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Target (%) | 5% | 10% | 15% | 20% | 25% | 30% | 35% | 40% | 50% | 60% | 70% |
Campus Operations
UTAR adopts practical measures across both campuses to minimise single-use plastics:
- Installation of water refill stations to reduce bottled water usage.
- Partnering with cafeteria vendors to replace single-use plastics with compostable or reusable alternatives.
- Promotion of the Bring Your Own Container (BYOC) campaign.
Education & Awareness
- The Plastic-Free Campus Campaign with workshops and digital outreach.
- Integrating sustainability topics into coursework.
- Supporting student clubs in zero-waste activities.
- Publishing sustainability updates on official platforms.
Waste Management & Infrastructure
- Providing segregated recycling bins with clear signage.
Research, Innovation & Collaboration
- Supporting research on bioplastics, waste-tracking, and recycling technology.
- Collaborating with NGOs, local authorities, and industry partners.
- Participating in global networks such as SDSN, HESI, and the SDG Accord.
Community Engagement
- Conducting river clean-ups, recycling drives, and zero-waste fairs.
- Scaling up student-led Plastic-Free Week and sustainability campaigns.
- Engaging alumni to support zero-waste innovations.
UTAR Water Discharge Guidelines & Standards
This guideline outlines UTAR’s standards for responsible water discharge in laboratories, ensuring environmental protection and compliance with approved waste-handling procedures.
1. General Principles
- No chemical discharge is permitted into laboratory sinks or drains.
- All chemical waste must be collected, labeled, stored properly, and disposed through Department of Environment-licensed contractors.
- Biological waste must not be discharged into sinks without full inactivation or sterilization.
- Cryogenic liquids must never be poured into sinks due to potential pipe damage.
2. Permitted Sink Discharge
- Tap water used for general cleaning.
- Final rinse water from glassware after all hazardous materials have been removed using proper disposal procedures.
- Dilute, non-hazardous solutions only when explicitly approved by laboratory staff.
3. Prohibited Sink Discharge
- Chemical waste (corrosive, flammable, reactive, toxic, halogenated/non-halogenated).
- Biological waste (cultures, blood, tissues, contaminated liquids).
- Sharps or materials contaminated with sharps.
- Cryogenic liquids such as liquid nitrogen or liquid helium.
- Unknown or unlabelled substances lacking SDS documentation.
4. Pre-Discharge Requirements
- All contaminated glassware must be pre-cleaned using disinfectants or detergents.
- Neutralization of acids/bases must be supervised by laboratory staff and performed inside a fume cupboard.
- No hazardous residue should remain before any rinsing water is discharged.
5. Roles & Responsibilities
- Laboratory Users: Follow all disposal rules and avoid discharging prohibited materials.
- Laboratory Technicians: Ensure waste segregation, maintain spill kits, and inspect sinks/drainage points.
- OSH Committee: Monitor compliance and update guidelines based on regulatory requirements.
6. Emergency Procedures
- Follow chemical spill response protocols for any spillage near sinks.
- Follow biosafety level procedures for biological spills.
- Report major spills immediately to laboratory staff and OSH Committee.
7. Enforcement
Non-compliance with water discharge guidelines may result in:
- Suspension of laboratory access
- Disciplinary action
- Mandatory safety training
For more information, refer to the UTAR General Laboratory Guidelines or contact the OSH Committee.
Monitoring the Health of Aquatic Ecosystems
UTAR Kampar is committed to safeguarding aquatic ecosystem health through continuous monitoring, research, and community engagement. As freshwater bodies face increasing environmental pressure, lakes have become essential indicators of ecological balance, biodiversity vitality, and campus sustainability performance. UTAR closely monitors the health of Lake 18 to preserve its ecological integrity and to support its role as both a natural heritage asset and an academic resource. The lake serves not only as a scenic learning environment but also as a living laboratory where students and researchers actively conduct environmental assessments to ensure a healthy and resilient aquatic ecosystem.
Lake 18 will also take center stage beyond research and conservation, as it has been selected as a venue for the Asia Triathlon Junior Cup 2025, highlighting its regional sporting significance and underscoring the university’s responsibility to maintain excellent lake water quality, safety, and ecological integrity. By integrating environmental monitoring with global sporting events, UTAR strengthens its role as a champion of aquatic sustainability, experiential learning, and environmental stewardship within Malaysia and across Asia.
Water sampling tests were conducted to assess the ecological health of Lake 18, using essential physicochemical and microbiological parameters, including pH, algal abundance, phenol, oil and grease, turbidity, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total suspended solids (TSS), Enterococci, and Escherichia coli (E. coli). These indicators provide a comprehensive understanding of water conditions by evaluating acidity–alkalinity balance, nutrient and algae presence, levels of chemical or industrial contaminants, organic pollution load, suspended matter, and potential bacterial or pathogenic risks that may impact aquatic biodiversity and human safety.
Results from the sampling analysis demonstrate that UTAR Lake 18 is in excellent and very healthy condition, fully meeting internationally recognised water quality benchmarks and fulfilling analytical procedures and allowable limits defined in APHA: Standard Methods for the Examination of Water & Wastewater, 21st Edition (2005). The data confirms that the lake sustains a stable and balanced pH environment, minimal pollutant concentrations, well-controlled algal growth, low turbidity, healthy oxygen demand levels, and an absence of harmful microbial contamination. These findings signal a resilient, thriving, and well-protected aquatic ecosystem—safe and sustainable for supporting biodiversity, academic research, environmental learning, and major sporting events, reinforcing UTAR’s commitment to long-term aquatic ecosystem conservation and campus sustainability
Initiative Highlights
Fresh-water Ecosystems
UTAR spearheaded river conservation initiatives, conducting cleanups, monitoring water quality, and running awareness campaigns to protect and restore local rivers while fostering sustainable environmental stewardship.
413.5 km
River Length
200+
Participants
- River cleanup and ecosystem restoration projects
- Student leadership in environmental sustainability
- Collaborative partnerships for community engagement
- Awareness programmes on water conservation practices
Sustainable Aquaculture Support Programme
Comprehensive programme supporting local fishing communities through sustainable aquaculture training, research collaboration, and technology transfer initiatives that promote environmentally responsible fish farming and marine resource management practices.
50+
Farmers Trained
15
Community Partnerships
- Sustainable aquaculture training programmes
- Technology transfer and innovation support
- Water quality monitoring assistance
- Market access and support
Community Outreach Programme on Fisheries
Community outreach on overfishing focuses on raising awareness of excessive, illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, encouraging sustainable practices that protect marine resources, safeguard coastal livelihoods, and support healthier oceans for future generations.
50+
Farmers Trained
15
Community Partnerships
- Increase awareness of overfishing and harmful fishing practices
- Encourage sustainable, responsible fishing within local communities
- Support resilient livelihoods for coastal fishing families
- Promote sustainable aquaculture to protect ecosystem
Ocean Cleanup Initiative
Large-scale marine debris removal programme engaging students, staff, and community volunteers in systematic cleanup operations targeting beaches, waterways, and coastal areas while promoting ocean conservation awareness and sustainable waste management practices.
1 ton
Debris Removed Annually
100+
Volunteers Engaged
- Beach and waterway cleanups
- Community volunteer engagement programmes
- Marine debris data collection and analysis
- Ocean conservation education campaigns
Protecting Ecosystems to Sustain Aquaculture
Collaborative research and industry engagement support the protection of threatened ecosystems by preserving plant and animal biodiversity, strengthening habitat resilience, and promoting sustainable actions that maintain vital natural environments.
5
Biodiversity Index
Class 1
Water Quality Index
- Preserve biodiversity essential for aquaculture ecosystems
- Restore degraded habitats supporting healthy aquatic environment
- Collaborate with industry for ecosystem-friendly aquaculture
- Promote aquaculture practices minimizing environmental impacts
Innovative Technologies for Aquatic Ecosystem Protection
At UTAR Agriculture Park, research and industry collaboration develop technologies and sustainable practices enabling the aquatic sector to reduce environmental impacts, prevent ecosystem damage, and safeguard long-term aquatic resource health.
5
Technologies Developed
100%
Technology Adoption
- Develop technologies reducing impacts on aquatic ecosystems
- Promote sustainable practices conserving water and biodiversity
- Engage industry to adopt ecosystem-friendly technologies
- ensure ecosystem health via technological interventions
Plastic-Free Campus Initiative
Comprehensive campus programme eliminating single-use plastics through sustainable alternatives, promoting reusable products and behaviour change campaigns to prevent plastic pollution in marine environments while encouraging sustainable consumption.
90%
Plastic Elimination
30
Water Refill Stations
- Single-use plastic ban implementation
- Reusable products through bargain basement
- Campus-wide water refill stations
- Sustainable packaging requirements
Minimizing Alteration of Aquatic Ecosystems
UTAR implements strategies to minimize alterations of aquatic ecosystems, preserving natural habitats, maintaining biodiversity, and promoting sustainable practices that protect water resources and support long-term ecological balance and environmental resilience.
Class 1
Lake Water Quality Index
1
Habitat Integrity Index
- Protect existing habitats to maintain ecological integrity
- Promote sustainable practices reducing aquatic ecosystem impacts
- Monitor ecosystems to identify and mitigate disturbances
- Restore areas affected by human or natural impacts
Monitoring the Health of Aquatic Ecosystems
At UTAR, monitoring aquatic ecosystem health employs tools like the River Health Index and Lake Water Quality assessments to track biodiversity, water conditions, and habitat integrity, guiding conservation and sustainable resource management.
Class 1
River Quality Index
Class 1
Lake Water Quality Index
- Measure water quality to detect pollution and stress
- Use data to guide conservation and management
- Monitor habitat integrity ensuring ecological stability
- Engage communities in monitoring and conservation efforts
Programmes for Sustainable Aquatic Practices
The UTAR Green Ambassadors Programme develops and supports initiatives that promote good
aquatic stewardship, encouraging communities and students to adopt sustainable practices,
protect water resources, and maintain healthy aquatic ecosystems.
15
Community Outreach
500
Participants
- Educate communities about sustainable aquatic practices
- Organize cleanups and habitat restoration activities
- Promote water conservation and ecosystem-friendly behaviours
- Engage students and communities in long-term stewardship
Collaboration for Shared Aquatic Ecosystems
UTAR collaborates with local communities, government agencies, and NGOs to safeguard Tadahan Sungai Kinta, promoting sustainable practices, conserving river catchments, and fostering long-term stewardship of shared aquatic ecosystems.
413.5 km
River Length
300
Participants
- Collaborate with Department of Irrigation & Drainage Perak
- Collaborate with NGOs – Global Environment Centre & Yayasan Hasanah
- River Health Index monitoring and treatment initiatives
- Educational visits, community outreach, & awareness campaigns
Watershed Management Strategy
UTAR’s watershed management strategy at Kampar Lake focuses on preserving natural habitats, including otters, by implementing location-specific measures that protect aquatic biodiversity, maintain ecosystem balance, and support sustainable water resource management.
25
Number of Lakes
Class 1
Water Quality Index
- Preserve diverse species to maintain ecological balance
- Safeguard natural habitats within Kampar Lake effectively
- Implement strategies tailored to lake's unique ecology
- Prevent polluted water discharge to the lakes
Sustainability Activities Highlights
Activities and achievements from UTAR's commitment to life below water
Project ECHO 3.0: Sustainable Actions for a Greener Tomorrow
28 October 2025
Project ECHO 3.0 by AIESEC in UTAR empowered Malaysian Youth Volunteers to drive sustainable change. Activities included EM mudball creation, river cleanups collecting 148 kg of waste, eco-friendly soap and composting workshops, and educational sessions reaching over 100 beneficiaries. The initiative culminated in tree planting with 500 seedlings. Supported by UTAR, UTP, RCI Lime, Spritzer, government agencies, and community partners, the project fostered environmental awareness, hands-on action, and long-term sustainability in local communities.
Field trip to Tuah Tani Sdn Bhd Temoh for UDAA1233 Principles and practices of aquaculture
29 August 2025
A group photo was taken with Mr. Peter, owner of Tuah Tani Sdn. Bhd., alongside Dr. Ooi Ai Lin, Pn. Nurdiyana, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Teoh Chaiw Yee. The myGAP-certified farm specializes in tilapia farming, ensuring safe, high-quality practices. Mr. Peter demonstrated to students the process of incubating and raising fertilized tilapia eggs into fry and fingerlings, as well as fish feed management techniques. He explained monitoring methods to optimize feeding efficiency, minimize waste, and maintain healthy fish growth, providing students with practical aquaculture insight.
Lake K11: A Knowledge transfer model for sustainable aquaculture
8 January 2025
UTAR transformed Lake K11 at its Agriculture Park into a model for sustainable aquaculture by introducing high-value freshwater fish species. The project nurtures fish in controlled facilities, promotes higher survival rates, and explores native species cultivation. Serving as a research and training platform, it demonstrates sustainable practices for ex-tin mining ponds, fish health management, and eco-friendly aquaculture. The initiative fosters student learning, innovation, knowledge transfer, and community empowerment, supporting resilient food systems and environmental sustainability.
Another green year for UTAR green ambassadors
1 January 2025
UTAR’s Green Ambassador Programme empowers students to promote environmental stewardship and freshwater protection through hands-on learning, river monitoring, and community outreach. Since 2024, ambassadors have raised awareness on water conservation, conducted River Health Index assessments at Sg. Kampar, and engaged over 220 school students in interactive water filtration and renewable energy activities. Partnering with the Global Environment Centre, the programme develops scientific skills, fosters sustainable habits, and supports long-term protection of local water resources.
Second-runner up at UTAR x ABMB Business Pitch Challenge
23 November 2024
A team of Software Engineering students from UTAR won second runner-up at the UTAR x ABMB Business Pitch Challenge 2024, held on 13 December 2024 at Menara Multi-Purpose, Alliance Bank Berhad. Their project, Integrating Community and Ecology to Enhance Local Fish Production and Economy Diversification, proposed sustainable urban aquafarming using recirculating aquaculture systems and real-time monitoring to enhance food security and community income. Guided by Ts Dr Sugumaran Nallusamy, the team received RM600, certificates, and recognition for their ESG-driven innovation.
Zero waste event by corporate communication students promotes environmental sustainability
23 November 2024
UTAR Corporate Communication students, in collaboration with the Department of Soft Skills Competency and Auckland University of Technology, organised the “Zero Waste: Recycle, Reuse, Rejoice” event at SJK(C) Kampung Baru Paroi. The programme promoted sustainability through zero-waste practices while nurturing leadership and teamwork. Through recycling workshops and team challenges, participants learned practical waste reduction skills, fostering environmental responsibility and inspiring youth to lead sustainable lifestyles for cleaner, greener communities.
Exploring food education through experiential learning at Sekinchan
16 October 2024
Twenty-four students from six primary schools in Kinta Selatan joined an educational field trip to Sekinchan, Selangor, on 16 October 2024. Organised by the Centre for Learning and Teaching (CLT) with Pejabat Pendidikan Daerah (PPD) Kinta Selatan and funded by the Toshiba International Foundation, the trip was accompanied by UTAR lecturers, schoolteachers, and PPD officers. The visit aimed to deepen students’ understanding of Malaysia’s agriculture and fisheries industries while fostering appreciation for sustainable food production.
Fulfilling day at Agrimicrob Workshop
1 October 2024
The EduFun AgriMicrob Science Holiday Workshop Series IV, organised by UTAR Faculty of Science’s Community Project team, engaged secondary school students in hands-on agricultural and microbiological activities. Guided by FSc academics, participants explored soilless culture, aquaponics, egg freshness testing, and microbiological studies. The workshop aimed to spark youth interest in science, sustainable farming, and innovation while promoting STEM learning through interactive sessions. Sponsored by local agro partners, it inspired students to apply science toward sustainability.
Cultivating sustainability: The revitalisation of UTAR Lake 5 as an aquaculture farm
4 October 2024
UTAR continues advancing sustainability through an innovative aquaculture project led by Assoc Prof Dr Wong Wey Lim, Ts Dr Teoh Chaiw Yee, and Dr Ooi Ai Lin from the Faculty of Science. The team revitalised Lake 5 at UTAR Kampar Campus into a sustainable fish farm, cultivating species such as Milkfish, Patin, and Carps. Partnering with PNT Gading Enterprise, the project integrates ecological balance and scientific monitoring to promote responsible aquaculture, conserve aquatic biodiversity, and strengthen food security through sustainable freshwater fish production.
UTAR Green Ambassador Programme 2024 honoured at River Care awarding and recognition ceremony
26 September 2024
UTAR received recognition at the River Care Awarding and Recognition Ceremony, Kinta River Basin 2024, for its contributions to environmental sustainability through the UTAR Green Ambassador Programme 2024. Held on 26 September 2024, the event celebrated collective efforts to protect the Kinta River Basin. Organised by the Global Environment Centre with Jabatan Pengairan dan Saliran Perak and Yayasan Hasanah, it concluded the three-year project “Pengawasan Kelestarian Lembangan Sungai Kinta Melalui Amalan Hidup Hijau”, promoting sustainable community practices.
FSc student wins second prize at international conference on molecular biology and biotechnology
26 June 2024
UTAR Master of Science student An Hongxuan from the Faculty of Science won Second Prize in the Poster Presentation (Student Category) at the 7th International Conference on Molecular Biology and Biotechnology 2024. His research, “Biodegradation Potential of Halophilic Bacteria Nesterenkonia sp. CL21 Isolated from Mangrove Sediments,” explored how marine microorganisms can degrade waste materials in saline environments. The study supports ocean conservation by promoting natural biodegradation processes that reduce marine pollution and enhance aquatic ecosystem health.
UTAR, Alliance Bank and MY Clean beach unite for environment action
23 March 2024
UTAR, Alliance Bank Malaysia, and MY Clean Beach organised a Beach Clean Up Campaign at Pantai Batu Laut, Tanjong Sepat, engaging volunteers in hands-on coastal cleaning. Participants collected 736.3kg of litter, including plastics and fishing nets, while learning about pollution’s impact on marine ecosystems. Educational sessions promoted sustainable practices and eco-friendly habits. The initiative fostered environmental stewardship, highlighted the importance of collective action, and inspired the university and wider community to preserve beaches and protect marine life for long-term ecological sustainability.
Lake K11 successfully transformed into educational site for sustainable fish farming
22 February 2024
UTAR advanced its sustainability efforts through the “Transforming Lake K11 through Sustainable Fish Farming” project, led by Assoc Prof Dr Wong Wey Lim from the Faculty of Science. In collaboration with UMT, UUM, and UPSI, the project revitalised an abandoned tin-mining pond into an eco-friendly aquaculture site at UTAR Agriculture Park. It promotes responsible fish farming, community education, and water conservation while empowering local aquaculturists with sustainable practices, business insights, and innovative techniques for freshwater fish cultivation.
Software engineering students shine at AgriNXT 2023 Tech challenge
3 January 2024
UTAR Software Engineering students Phang Jun Sen and Lee Chee Jian from Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science triumphed in the academia challenge track of the AgriNXT 2023 Tech Challenge under the mentorship of Ts Dr Sugumaran Nallusamy. Their project, “IoT-based Water Quality Monitoring: A Foundation for Optimal Aquaculture Management,” enables real-time monitoring of water conditions to support efficient and sustainable aquaculture. Their innovation, which promotes smart technology in agriculture, earned them the RM25,000 prize.
FEGT bags gold award at MTE SDG 2023
18 October 2023
UTAR FEGT academics Prof Dr Sumathi Sethupathi, Assoc Prof Ir Ts Dr Leong Kah Hon, Assoc Prof Dr Yamuna Munusamy, and PhD student Tan Sin Ying won Gold at MTE 2023 for FISCOFF, an innovation that recovers nitrates and nitrites from aquaculture wastewater, converting pollutants into nutrients for soil. The technology reduces harmful discharges into water bodies, helping protect aquatic life and preserve marine ecosystems. This solution demonstrates UTAR’s commitment to sustainable aquaculture, environmental stewardship, and practical innovations that benefit both the industry and the natural environment.
First runner-up at PIN 2023
9 October 2023
UTAR PhD student Yong Zi Jun won first runner-up in the Doctor of Philosophy category at PIN 2023 for his innovative nanotechnology project. Supervised by Dr Lam and Dr Sin, Yong developed a CuBi2O4/Bi2WO6/ZnO nanorod array photoanode in a solar-driven photocatalytic fuel cell, enabling simultaneous renewable electricity generation and municipal wastewater reclamation. The project demonstrated high efficiency, environmental and economic benefits, and the potential for integration into Malaysia’s wastewater treatment plants, supporting clean water, energy, and sustainability initiatives.
Ocean world: past and future virtual study tour makes its first stop in Indonesia
14 April 2023
The “Ocean World: Past and Future” Virtual Study Tour, organised by UTAR DCInterNet with partner universities in Indonesia, the Philippines, and China, featured four sessions on ocean environmental protection, marine resources, sea transportation, and piracy history. The first session, led by Dr Eng Trika Pitana from ITS Indonesia, highlighted marine pollution, international shipping regulations, marine litter, ballast water issues, and alternative ship energy sources, emphasizing sustainable practices to protect marine ecosystems and ensure the health and balance of aquatic life.
Turning wastewater into resource water
2 February 2023
The webinar “Wastewater to Resource Water,” led by Prof Dr Ronald Droste, explored transforming wastewater into safe, reusable water. Participants learned about recoverable and problematic wastewater constituents, lifecycle assessment frameworks, and sludge types. Prof Droste highlighted global water stress, scarcity factors such as climate change and pollution, and the importance of proper water management. He shared examples from Windhoek and Singapore on wastewater reuse for drinking, discussed treatment processes and nutrient recovery, and emphasized safe practices, concluding with an interactive Q&A session.
Relevant Research Centre
Centre for Agriculture and Food Research
Future Goals & Vision
- Establish aquaculture supply chain.
- Launch ocean literacy programmes.
- Create aquatic protected area partnerships.
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