Expanding Research Horizons: France–Malaysia Collaboration towards UTM Global Prominence

Amnani

CLERMONT-FERRAND, Aug 30 – Two members of the Chemical Reaction Engineering Group (CREG), Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering (FKT), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), recently completed a training and research visit to Polytech Clermont, Institut National Polytechnique (INP), Clermont Auvergne University (UCA), France. The visit underscores UTM’s strategic mission of advancing global prominence through international collaboration and impactful research.

The Malaysian delegation was led by Dr. Amnani Shamjuddin, MyTIGER project leader in Malaysia, together with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Umi Aisah Asli, project member. They were warmly received by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gwendoline Christophe, MyTIGER project leader in France, and Prof. Philippe Michaud.

This initiative represents another milestone in strengthening the collaborative bridge between Malaysia and Franceunder the MyTIGER international grant, fostering joint research and innovation in chemical engineering.

Key outcomes of the visit included progress updates on the MyTIGER project’s latest research findings, insights into the future direction of biomass valorization, updates on joint publications, strengthening of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between INP and UTM, and discussions on student exchange opportunities with UCA. Prof. Philippe and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gwendoline also guided the delegates through their laboratories, showcasing advanced analytical equipment that underpins the collaborative research.

Dr. Amnani emphasized the value of these engagements, stating, “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to advancing sustainable biomass research through international cooperation. By aligning expertise between UTM and French institutions, we are building a strong foundation for impactful outcomes in both academia and industry.”

From left: Prof. Philippe Michaud, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Umi Aisah Asli, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gwendoline Christophe (MyTIGER project leader in France), and Dr. Amnani Shamjuddin (MyTIGER project leader in Malaysia)

*Discussion session between UTM and INP researchers on the progress update of the MyTIGER project and exploring future directions in biomass valorization.*

*Discussion session between UTM and INP researchers on the progress update of the joint publication.*

*Prof. Philippe Michaud (right) showcasing the advanced analytical equipment available in his laboratory at INP, supporting high-quality research collaboration under the MyTIGER project.*

Meeting with Director of International Relations at Clermont Auvergne INP, Raphaël Tobias Beilicke (right), to discuss updates on the MoU and explore opportunities for student exchange programs between UTM and UCA.

Earlier, in April 2025, UTM hosted Prof. Michaud and Dr. Christophe during their research collaboration visit to Johor Bahru. That engagement featured seminars, knowledge exchanges, and research discussions, which significantly enriched the ongoing partnership and laid the foundation for future collaborative outcomes.

*Prof. Michaud and Dr. Christophe during their research collaboration visit to UTM Johor Bahru in April 2025*

Prof. Michaud highlighted the broader impact of this partnership, remarking, “International networking between Malaysia and France is vital for nurturing young talent in research. Equally important is upholding research ethics and accuracy, as these are the foundations of high-quality research that can be translated into meaningful applications to meet industrial market demands.”

Beyond academic and research engagements, the visit also included a cultural exploration of the region’s natural heritage. Prof. Philippe and Dr. Gwendoline brought Dr. Amnani and Dr. Umi Aisah to visit the iconic Puy de Dôme and Puy Pariou, two dormant volcanoes in the Chaîne des Puys, part of the Massif Central region of France. Traveling up the mountain via the Panoramique des Dômes rack railway, the delegates experienced panoramic views of the 8,000-year-old Strombolian crater of Puy Pariou and the majestic 1,465-meter peak of Puy de Dôme, a younger Pelean volcano. Interestingly, Puy Pariou’s striking image is famously featured on Volvic mineral water bottles. This cultural immersion strengthened personal and professional ties, enriching the overall collaborative spirit of the visit.

The France–Malaysia partnership under the MyTIGER project continues to expand research horizons, fostering innovation in sustainable biomass conversion while strengthening UTM’s commitment to achieving global prominence.