JOHOR BAHRU, 23 February 2015 –  Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) researchers from various disciplinary background will be going to Antarctica from 25 February 2015 to 19 Mac 2015 to conduct high-impact research in the field of Remote Sensing, Sports Science, Biological Science and Mechanical Engineering.
The research team will comprise Prof. Dr. Mazlan Hashim, Prof. Dr. Abdul Hafidz Hj Omar, Dr. Mohd Nadzri Md. Reba, Dr Mohd Farid Muhamad Said, Dr. Mohd Firdaus Abdul Wahab and Kamaruzaman Soeed.

Prof. Mazlan in a press conference session held at the Faculty of Biosciences and Medical Engineering, UTM Johor Bahru said that the Research topics covered in the expedition include atmosphere and ocean observations from earth satellite; effects of exercise on physiological changes in the body in extreme cold weather; changes in mood variations and mental strength in the face of extreme cold weather; sea, ground and ice water sampling for the separation of photosynthetic microbes for industrial use; and Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) test in extreme cold water waters.
“To determine the fitness level of each participant, everyone is required to take a physical test.
“Each participant will be given a physical training programme and diet schedule according to the test results,” said Prof Mazlan.

The test will be conducted a week before the expedition, seven days while in Antartica and one week after the completion of the expedition.
“This UTM research team will have to endure a 25-hour flight from Malaysia to Argentina via Dubai. From Ushaia, Argentina, we have to cross the Atlantic Ocean for three days using the research vessel, Australis owned by an Australian private company before arriving at Antarctica.”
“Apart from the weather factor, we will also be exposed to strong winds and high seas. From this experience, we can draft future action plans and determine the correct mechanism that can be used for Malaysian future expeditions,” said Prof Abdul Hafiz.