KUALA LUMPUR, 19 August 2025 – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), in partnership with the Malaysian Membrane Society (MyMembrane), made headlines this week as it proudly and successfully hosted the 15th Aseanian Membrane Society Conference (AMS15) from 19 to 21 August 2025 at a premier venue in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. The international event, which attracted a distinguished crowd of 513 delegates—including 343 international participants from over 29 countries—marks a significant milestone in Malaysia’s ascent as a regional and global powerhouse in membrane science and sustainable technology innovation.

AMS15, held under the auspices of the Aseanian Membrane Society (AMS), served as more than just a scientific conference—it was a celebration of shared knowledge, boundary-pushing research, and cross-border collaboration. For three days, Kuala Lumpur became the epicentre of global conversations around water security, climate resilience, clean and renewable energy, biotechnology, food processing, and smart industrial materials. The strong representation from countries such as China, Korea, Japan, India, Taiwan, Indonesia, Belgium, France, Saudi Arabia, and the United States highlights not only the trust placed in Malaysia’s research capabilities, but also its emergence as a key convener of global scientific dialogues.

The conference was officially launched by YB Datuk Ts. Mustapha Sakmud, Deputy Minister of Higher Education Malaysia, who underscored the significance of membrane technology as a national niche research area. In his keynote address, he praised UTM and MyMembrane for their leadership in positioning Malaysia as a frontrunner in scientific discovery and innovation. He emphasized that AMS15 is not merely an academic event—it is a strategic platform that echoes Malaysia’s vision of becoming a global science and technology hub, while supporting urgent national agendas in clean water access, renewable energy, and health innovation.

YB Datuk Ts. Mustapha Sakmud, Deputy Minister of Higher Education Malaysia, officiated the conference.

Delivering a powerful opening speech, Prof. Datuk Ir. Ts. Dr. Ahmad Fauzi Ismail, President of MyMembrane and former Vice Chancellor of UTM, reflected on the evolution of AMS from a bilateral initiative between Korea and Japan in 2002 to a dynamic and inclusive regional network. Today, AMS spans across major research nations such as China, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, India, Indonesia, and Australia—expanding its reach and influence in advancing cutting-edge membrane technologies. He also highlighted AMS’s deepening engagement with international organisations including the North American Membrane Society (NAMS) and the European Membrane Society (EMS) under the global umbrella of the World Association of Membrane Societies (WA-MS).

UTM Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim, in his welcome address, conveyed great pride in hosting AMS15 and highlighted UTM’s steadfast commitment to global scientific leadership. He spotlighted the critical role played by UTM’s Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC)—one of the region’s most influential R&D centres—in spearheading membrane innovation for real-world applications. AMTEC’s research spans a wide spectrum, including water and wastewater treatment, carbon capture, gas separation, healthcare bioreactors, and nanostructured membranes for food and energy sectors.

“Guided by our philosophy, ‘Kerana Tuhan Untuk Manusia – In the Name of God, for Mankind’, we strive to ensure that our research benefits humanity and future generations,” he said.

Deputy Minister of Higher Education Malaysia, YB Datuk Ts. Mustapha Sakmud, accompanied by UTM Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Shafry Mohd Rahim (left) and Conference Chair Prof. Datuk Ir. Ts. Dr. Ahmad Fauzi Ismail (right), during his visit to the exhibition booths

Professor Shafry emphasized that AMS15 strongly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—especially in the areas of clean water access, sustainable industry, and environmental protection. He highlighted the importance of transforming academic research into scalable solutions that can address global challenges. AMS15, he added, is a catalyst for impactful partnerships, driving innovation that transcends borders and sectors.

The event featured an impressive programme of high-impact plenary and keynote lectures, oral and poster presentations, interactive workshops, and expert panel sessions. Renowned researchers, industry thought leaders, and emerging scholars alike shared ground breaking findings, explored commercialization pathways, and discussed the future trajectory of membrane science in a post-pandemic world. The conference also fostered vibrant networking opportunities, paving the way for new bilateral and multilateral research collaborations, industry linkages, and capacity-building initiatives.

Beyond its scientific significance, AMS15 served as a diplomatic and strategic platform, enhancing Malaysia’s reputation not only as a research destination but also as a nation committed to sustainable development, inclusive innovation, and international cooperation. With Kuala Lumpur as its backdrop, the event showcased the country’s ability to host high-level international forums that shape the future of global science and technology.

As the curtains close on this extraordinary event, the momentum built at AMS15 is set to continue well beyond the conference halls—through new projects, lasting networks, and policy initiatives that bring science closer to society. AMS15 leaves behind a legacy of excellence, unity, and visionary thinking, reaffirming Malaysia’s readiness to lead in addressing the grand challenges of our time.

Token of Appreciation to Our Distinguished Guests during the Opening Ceremony

UTM and AMTEC extend heartfelt congratulations to Prof. Ts. Dr. Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman, Chairman of AMS15 together with Prof. Datuk Ir. Ts. Dr. Ahmad Fauzi Ismail, for his exceptional leadership and dedication in steering the conference to remarkable success.

Reflecting on the achievement, Prof. Hafiz shared:
“AMS15 is a proud moment for Malaysia and for AMTEC. The conference has not only showcased groundbreaking research but also reinforced the importance of international partnerships in solving global challenges. I am truly humbled by the trust placed in UTM and AMTEC to host this prestigious event, and I look forward to the collaborations and innovations that will emerge from it. Looking ahead, we eagerly anticipate AMS16 in Korea—a new chapter that will further strengthen global collaboration and push the boundaries of membrane science”

One of the exhibition booths promoting the next AMS destination: Korea, host of AMS16