SURABAYA, Apr 25 – Dr. Nazrin Abd Aziz from the Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, together with two postgraduate students, Muhammad Shawal Shafie and Nur Hazwani Izazi—both pursuing their Master of Philosophy in Biosciences at the same department—spent a week at Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR)’s Center of Excellence – Research Center for Bio-Molecule Engineering (BIOME) from April 21 to 25, 2025. The visit not only reinforced the long-standing collaboration between UTM and UNAIR, but also brought together passionate researchers from both institutions in a spirit of shared learning and mutual respect.
The UTM delegation was warmly welcomed by the UNAIR team, including Vice Rector of Research, Innovation and Community Development, Prof. Dr. Ni Nyoman Tri Puspaningsih, and researchers from BIOME. The days that followed were filled with hands-on lab sessions—ranging from FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) and nitric oxide assays to anti-diabetic testing—led by the Head of BIOME, Dr. Rico Ramadhan, and his team. These sessions equipped the students with essential biochemical analysis techniques and provided valuable exposure to real-world applications in natural product research.
Dr. Nazrin was also invited to deliver a guest lecture on plant-derived proteins, focusing specifically on anti-toxoplasma immunoglobulin from Mucuna bracteata. His talk sparked lively discussion and opened doors for potential joint research and future publication efforts.
In addition, Shawal and Hazwani had the opportunity to present the findings of their Master’s research projects during a mini international sharing seminar attended by BIOME researchers. The session allowed them to receive feedback, discuss possible future directions for their work, and gain valuable international exposure. Engaging in scientific discussions with peers from another country broadened their perspectives and boosted their confidence in research communication and public speaking.
But it wasn’t all lab coats and pipettes. The UTM team also explored Surabaya’s rich cultural and historical heritage—visiting sites such as Kota Lama, Monumen Tugu Pahlawan, and the iconic Jambatan Merah. A trip to Gunung Bromo, one of Java’s most breathtaking volcanic landmarks, offered a chance to connect with nature and enjoy a well-deserved breather from lab work. Informal conversations with UNAIR students—about everything from campus life to national traditions—added a personal touch that made the experience all the more memorable.
For Shawal and Hazwani, it was their first international academic exchange. And for Dr. Nazrin, it was an opportunity to deepen an already strong partnership. “This visit has reaffirmed the importance of our collaboration with UNAIR. Our students gained not only technical knowledge but also a broader perspective on how science brings people together,” he reflected.
The visit concluded with a heartfelt farewell, with both institutions expressing enthusiasm for future collaborations—whether through joint research, reciprocal visits, or expanded student mobility programs. As the UTM team returned home, they carried more than just lab results: they brought back new ideas, lasting friendships, and a renewed sense of purpose in the shared pursuit of knowledge without borders.
By: Nazrin Abd Aziz, Muhammad Shawal Shafie and Nur Hazwani Izazi Zia Ahmad Kusairee