BANDUNG, Aug 4 – A joint project between Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and Politeknik Negeri Bandung (POLBAN) is turning coffee waste into eco-friendly products, underscoring the power of international academic partnerships in tackling sustainability challenges.
The collaboration began with the international community service program “From Waste to Wealth: Utilizing Coffee Waste for Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Products” held in Bandung on 26–27 June 2025. Led by Ir. Dr. Jamarosliza Jamaluddin (UTM) and Prof. Ir. Herawati Budiastuti (POLBAN), the initiative successfully converted spent coffee grounds into attractive, eco-friendly coasters. Demonstrations with local partner DJamoo Cafe inspired the community to see waste as a resource while promoting sustainable business practices.
To build on this momentum, a Monitoring and Evaluation session was held on 4 August 2025 with UTM, POLBAN, and community stakeholders. The session assessed progress and explored practical applications, showing how academic collaboration can generate solutions that benefit local entrepreneurs and encourage environmentally friendly practices.
Beyond product development, the program featured a guest lecture by UTM representatives and discussions on strengthening research collaboration between UTM’s Biopolymer Research Group (BRG) and POLBAN’s Department of Chemical Engineering. This engagement not only advanced knowledge sharing and research ties, but also gave students real exposure to bio-based materials and sustainable innovation.
From a wider perspective, the initiative supports both Malaysia’s and Indonesia’s national sustainability agendas while aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It highlights UTM’s role as a global university that integrates teaching, research, and community service to address environmental challenges. By transforming everyday waste into useful products, UTM demonstrates leadership in sustainable innovation, strengthens cross-border cooperation, and delivers solutions that benefit society and the environment alike.
Authors: Faiqah Batrisyia Usof, Ir. Dr. Jamarosliza Jamaluddin
