Lombok, Aug 27 – The long-standing partnership between Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and Telkom University, Indonesia, reached another milestone with the progress update meeting and project symposium of the Matching Grant Programme, held in conjunction with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 7th Symposium on Future Telecommunication Technologies (SOFTT 2025) at the Aruna Senggigi Hotel, Lombok.

This collaboration traces its roots back to the inaugural SOFTT held at Telkom University, Bandung, in 2017, where both institutions then signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2021 to establish stronger academic and research cooperation in next-generation telecommunications. Since then, the MoU has facilitated joint research, student exchanges, and symposium platforms, creating a vibrant ecosystem of knowledge exchange between Malaysia and Indonesia. The current Matching Grant Programme reflects the implementation of this MoU and underscores the mutual commitment to advancing high-impact research that addresses global challenges while nurturing regional innovation capacity.

At SOFTT 2025, UTM was represented by five delegates from the Ubiquitous Broadband Access Network (U-BAN) Research Group, Faculty of Artificial Intelligence (FAI). The  discussion was extended with the joint project from UTM, “Energy-Efficient Throughput Maximization of UAV-Assisted RIS in Aerial-Terrestrial Communication Networks.” Alongside this, two other major initiatives were presented: “QC-LDPC-like Raptor Code with Artificial Intelligence-based Decoding for 6G Wireless Communication System (CODECERDAS-6G)” and “Quantum Key Distribution and Quantum Error Correction Codes for Secure Satellite and Terrestrial Communication Networks in the 6G Era (QKEY-6G).”

Projects led by Dr. Hazilah, Dr. Norulhusna, and Dr. Mohd Azri, the U-BAN team underscored how these projects are paving the way for 6G innovation, with breakthroughs in digital village connectivity, secure satellite-terrestrial links, and energy-efficient UAV-assisted systems. These innovations directly address the digital divide while creating opportunities for inclusive and sustainable connectivity.

Beyond the symposium, UTM delegates also actively engaged in SOFTT 2025 technical sessions, strengthening networking ties with international experts and exploring potential collaborations that could shape the trajectory of future telecommunication systems worldwide.

Crucially, the projects presented are not only scientific and technological milestones but also embody the spirit of global responsibility. They contribute to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), by promoting inclusive digital access, resilient communication infrastructure, and sustainable innovation pathways. In addition, the emphasis on energy efficiency, security, and equitable access reflects alignment with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, ensuring that technological progress balances environmental sustainability with societal well-being and ethical responsibility.

This gathering reaffirmed the depth of the UTM–Telkom University partnership and the shared vision of both institutions. As part of the MoU framework, these initiatives illustrate how academic collaboration can drive cutting-edge telecommunication research while also contributing meaningfully to global sustainability and community empowerment.