USM-SILTERRA COLLABORATION: A NEW RESEARCH METHOD VENTURE

PENANG, 12 Sept 2012 - Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is exploring new areas of developing research through a unique collaboration with Silterra (M) Sdn. Bhd. to provide solutions to real problems in the industry.

The joint venture is further strengthened with a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed by both parties here yesterday.

USM Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dato’ Omar Osman said that the joint venture with Silterra allows both institutions see the detailed requirements that can be optimally utilised.

He said that through the joint venture, Silterra can continue to concentrate on the development of research that has a significant impact on their daily operations and make improvements to the existing system.

“With this, USM can also see a new possibility in research funding that does not merely look at the output of publications and products but also provide a solution to a real problem,” he said.

He said at a press conference after signing the MoA document. Silterra was represented by its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Kamarulzaman Mohamed Zin.

He added that the cooperation started since 2008 which initially was only invitations of USM lecturers to brief them on water waste management and career talks by Silterra.

Omar said that it was followed by training and research by USM final year students on waste water that was eventually extended as a research project for the Master of Science students.

In the meantime, Kamarulzaman said that Silterra has agreed to sponsor two projects under the scope of waste management and treatment conducted by a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) student, Azieda Abdul Talib and a Master’s student, Nur Zainal Abidin Farehah respectively.

“In order to proceed with the project, Silterra has agreed to provide monthly allowance to the two students from the School of Industrial Technology totalling RM 194,000 for the next two to four years,” he said. - Translation: Yong Check Yoon