JOHOR BAHRU, Sep 24 – The International Conference on Sustainable & Environmental Technology 2026 (ISET 2026), held in conjunction with the Regional Conference in Environmental Engineering 2026 (RCEnvE 2026), brought together researchers, academics, and industry representatives from Malaysia and abroad to exchange knowledge and strengthen collaborations in sustainable and environmental technologies.

Organised by the Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), the three-day conference was held from 22 to 24 September 2026 at Pulai Springs Resort, Johor Bahru.

Chaired by Conference Chair Ir. Dr. Farhana Aziz, ISET 2026 and RCEnvE 2026 provided an international platform for discussions on emerging technologies, environmental engineering, membrane technology, water and wastewater treatment, resource recovery, renewable energy and the circular economy. A key highlight was its distinguished line-up of five plenary speakers from leading universities across five countries, reflecting the conference’s strong international profile.

The plenary line-up featured Prof. Datuk Ir. Ts. Dr. Ahmad Fauzi Ismail of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Emeritus Prof. Takeshi Matsuura of the University of Ottawa, Canada, Prof. Kang Li of Imperial College London, United Kingdom, Prof. Dr. Ismail Koyuncu of Istanbul Technical University, Türkiye and Prof. Dr. Mikihiro Nomura of Shibaura Institute of Technology, Japan. Together, these five renowned scholars represented Malaysia, Canada, the United Kingdom, Türkiye and Japan, giving ISET 2026 and RCEnvE 2026 a truly international dimension.

Beyond the plenary sessions, ISET 2026 and RCEnvE 2026 created opportunities for researchers to interact with established experts, explore potential research partnerships and discuss research outcomes and practical solutions for industry and society. The conference was further enriched through collaboration with AUN/SEED-Net, including the Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Workshop and Mock Interview, which provided additional exposure to research development and regional networking.

Another major highlight was the presentation of awards recognising outstanding research, innovation, sustainability and presentation excellence. Among the major sponsored recognitions were the Gold Innovation Award by Inno Lab Engineering Sdn. Bhd., Gold Innovation Award by Envilab Sdn. Bhd., and the Diamond Sustainability Award by Ecomech Engineering Sdn. Bhd. The conference also recognised excellence through the MyMembrane Travelling Award, ISET Young Scientist Award, Oral Presenter Award, Online Presenter Award and Best of the Best Award.

The programme concluded with a technical visit on 24 September 2026, giving participants the opportunity to experience UTM’s research ecosystem at AMTEC and the Institute of Bioproduct Development (IBD). According to Conference Chair Ir. Dr. Farhana Aziz, the conference represented the culmination of months of planning and teamwork involving academics, staff, students, collaborators and partners.

“After months of preparation, ISET 2026 has finally come to a close. The success of this conference reflects the dedication, teamwork and commitment of everyone involved. More importantly, we hope the connections and ideas generated during these three days will continue beyond the conference and lead to meaningful collaborations and sustainable solutions.”

ISET 2026 and RCEnvE 2026 demonstrated UTM and AMTEC’s commitment to advancing impactful research, strengthening international networks and nurturing the next generation of researchers towards a greener, more resilient and sustainable future.