JOHOR BAHRU, 5 Sept. – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) hosted a courtesy visit and appreciation ceremony for Japan’s Kubota Corporation to mark the successful completion of a pilot project certified by the Suruhanjaya Perkhidmatan Air Negara (SPAN). This project, utilising Kubota’s Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) technology, represents the first industry registration with SPAN for sewage wastewater treatment.
The delegation from Kubota Corporation was led by Mr. Ryuji Yamamoto, General Manager of the Environmental Systems Business Unit, along with Mr. Yuji Fukuyama, General Manager of Kubota Corporation Malaysia Branch, and Mr. Gan Teck Yeow, Managing Director of Kasui Techno Sdn. Bhd. This significant achievement demonstrates the valuable exchange of knowledge and collaboration between both parties throughout the project.
Kubota’s Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) technology is an innovative solution that combines biological treatment with membrane filtration into a single integrated system. Utilising flat-sheet membrane modules effectively separates and retains biomass, enabling higher mixed liquor concentrations compared to traditional activated sludge systems. This efficiency leads to a compact system design with a smaller footprint while producing high-quality effluent that is suitable for reuse or safe discharge. Its compactness, energy efficiency, and effectiveness make it ideal for various applications.
During the visit, discussions centred on future research collaborations aimed at advancing membrane technology. Proposed projects include wastewater treatment for palm oil mill effluents and biogas production from palm oil waste. Both parties seek to tackle critical challenges in wastewater management by improving treatment efficiency, enhancing effluent quality, and integrating energy and resource recovery processes. These initiatives promote environmental sustainability and support eco-friendly wastewater treatment practices.
To mark the occasion, Mr. Ryuji Yamamoto presented a token of appreciation to UTM Vice-Chancellor Prof. Datuk Ir. Ts. Dr. Ahmad Fauzi bin Ismail, expressing gratitude and symbolising their successful collaboration.
Kubota Corporation’s innovative efforts, combined with UTM’s research expertise, are paving the way for transformative advances in wastewater treatment technology. This collaboration reaffirms their commitment to environmental sustainability and impactful partnerships within the industry.