UTM at Program MADANI Rakyat 2025 Johor

Dr. Fariza Hanim Suhailin

JOHOR BAHRU, May 23 – The Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) partnered with the Village Development and Counseling Committee (JPKK) Pasir Gudang Baru was invited to showcase the innovative potential originate from mussel shell at the Program MADANI Rakyat (PMR) 2025. Held over three days at Toppen Shopping Centre, Johor Bahru (23–25 May 2025), this high-impact event was officiated by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, by the presence of YAB Dato’ Onn Hafiz Ghazi, Menteri Besar Johor, and YB Hannah Yeoh, Minister of Youth and Sports (KBS).

Potential innovations derived from mussel shell waste were displayed at the Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU), Prime Minister’s Department (JPM) booth during the programme

As part of the exhibition segment, senior lecturers from the Faculty of Science, UTM showcased several potential innovations derived from mussel shell waste, including bio-fertilizers, animal feed additives, eco-friendly water filter for heavy metal ions removal, and battery derived from natural resources. These products exemplify how scientific research and community knowledge transfer can transform aquaculture waste into economically viable solutions, aligning with the principles of a circular economy and sustainable development.

Senior lectures from Faculty of Science, UTM. Second from left: Ts. Dr. Fariza Hanim Suhailin, Dr. Nurhidayah Ahmad, Dr. Huszalina Hussin and Dr. Nurhafizah Hasim with community representative from JPKK Pasir Gudang Baru

During the event, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim also presented the Grant of Program Sejahtera Komuniti MADANI (SejaTi MADANI) amounting to RM100,000 to JPKK Pasir Gudang Baru in support of their ongoing mussel aquaculture projects. In addition, the Prime Minister signed the commemorative plaque for the Projek Ternakan Kupang Kaedah Rawai, recognizing it as a key initiative under the community development and sustainability agenda promoted through PMR Johor 2025.

Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (center), signed the plaque for the *Projek Ternakan Kupang Kaedah Rawai* during his visit to ICU JPM booth at PMR 2025 Johor

The collaboration also highlights UTM’s ongoing commitment to community empowerment through science, technology, and innovation. By working closely with local communities like those in Kampung Pasir Gudang Baru, the university aims to not only provide academic expertise but also create real-world impact, especially in generating additional income and job opportunities through waste-to-wealth initiatives.

UTM welcomes future collaborations and funding support from private entities, government agencies, or GLCs to strengthen and expand such knowledge transfer programs. All contributions will be fully optimized to empower the local community ensuring that science benefits all layers of society in building a resilient and self-sustaining MADANI nation.

Authors: Ts. Dr. Fariza Hanim Suhailin and Dr. Nurhidayah Ahmad