Curtin Malaysia researchers earn recognition at IChemE Malaysia Awards

Miri, Sarawak –11 December 2024 – A groundbreaking research project by lecturers and researchers from Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) has earned a Highly Commended Award in the Research Project category at the 2024 IChemE Malaysia Awards held recently at the Crystal Crown Hotel, Petaling Jaya.

The project, titled ‘Sustainable Solutions from the Sea: Transforming Macroalgae Waste into Bioplastic’, explores converting macroalgae waste into biodegradable bioplastics. Supported by the Ministry of Higher Education’s Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS), the initiative represents a cutting-edge solution to the global plastic pollution crisis and highlights the potential of macroalgae as a renewable resource for eco-friendly alternatives.

This innovative research was spearheaded by Ir. Ts. Dr. Tan Inn Shi, Deputy Dean of Research and Development at Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Engineering and Science as Principal Investigator, with collaborators Professor Stephanie Chan Yen San (Head of Department of Chemical and Energy Engineering) and Dr. Henry Foo Chew Yew (Senior Lecturer of Chemical and Energy Engineering) from Curtin Malaysia, and Dr. Ir. Tian Foon Howe from industry partner MJM (Palm Oil Mill) Sdn. Bhd.

Through their collaboration with MJM (Palm Oil Mill), the research team successfully bridged academic innovation with industrial needs, ensuring the development of sustainable materials that meet real-world demands and advance the concept of a circular economy.

“This project demonstrates the immense potential of macroalgae as a sustainable resource to address plastic pollution,” said Ir. Ts. Dr. Tan. “The partnership with MJM (Palm Oil Mill) was instrumental in ensuring our solutions are practical for industrial applications. This recognition by IChemE Malaysia underscores the importance of such collaborations in driving meaningful change.”

Ir. Ts. Dr. Tan also praised her team, noting that their dedication and interdisciplinary expertise were pivotal to the project’s success.

The IChemE Malaysia Awards are a prestigious platform celebrating innovation and excellence in chemical engineering, and this accolade highlights Curtin Malaysia’s commitment to impactful research and sustainable advancements.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, or TikTok.

Ir. Ts. Dr. Tan (centre) showing the award certificate won by her team