JOHOR BAHRU, 27 Feb – UTM’s commitment to strengthen its international strategic collaboration is realized today through a fruitful visit and engagement by Nplus S.r.l, an energy and lighting company headquartered in Italy, for discussions on potential academic, research, and business collaborations.
The meeting was initiated by Dr. Yon Kong Chen, Director of VRG Dinamik Sdn Bhd, a UTM alumnus. He was first approached by Nplus to establish a business partnership in the field of Structural Health Monitoring (SHM). Having graduated from UTM’s Faculty of Civil Engineering and under the guidance of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Norhisham Bakhary, Dr. Yon chose the entrepreneurial path to further his expertise in SHM. VRG Dinamik Sdn. Bhd. has since developed a client base including Dyson and MRT Corporation.
The seven-hour meeting focused on potential collaborations, including the possibility of sending undergraduate, postgraduate, and staff members for international internships in Italy. Nplus S.r.l expressed enthusiasm for the initiative and anticipates formal collaboration. Both parties agreed to sign an MoU and exchange proposals for Nplus to finalize candidate selection. Nplus S.r.l was represented by President Giodarno Riello, SHM specialist Miss Francesca Brighenti, and Southeast Asia Business Development Officer Mr. Fabio Cardani. UTM’s delegation included the Dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suhaimi bin Abu Bakar @ Mohd Ramli, along with his team, and representation from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor’s office, including the Chair of the School of Graduate Studies, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Noor Hazarina Hashim, and the Chair of the School of Undergraduate Studies, Professor Intan Zaurah Mat Darus.
This initiative marks the first collaboration between Nplus S.r.l and UTM, signifying a significant step towards fostering interdisciplinary partnerships to advance research and business goals. Leveraging each other’s expertise and resources, this collaboration holds promise for driving innovation and creating tangible impact in the field of Structural Health Monitoring (SHM). As both entities proceed with this partnership, they exemplify a commitment to excellence and a shared vision for progress through strategic collaborations.
