In a groundbreaking event at the Simunjan Water Treatment Plant, the UNIMAS Water Centre (UWC) of the Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) and RAF Technologies Sdn. Bhd. have collaborated to introduce an innovative high-tech water treatment system. The launching ceremony, held on 30 November 2023, marks a significant commitment to engineering excellence and innovation, tackling the crucial need for clean water solutions in communities.
Representing RAF Technologies Sdn Bhd, its Managing Director, Ir Dr Ahmad Fuad Shahrudin, said in his welcoming remarks that the collaborative academia-industry partnership represents a platform and opens a new chapter in efforts to assist rural populations in obtaining clean and safe drinking water, even in peat-laden areas.
YBhg Prof Datuk Ts. Dr Mohamad Kadim Suaidi, the Vice Chancellor of UNIMAS, in his speech, said that UNIMAS, with the vision of becoming a leading global university committed to a sustainable future, actively works to enhance societal and economic well-being. The partnership with RAF Technologies Sdn Bhd marks a vital milestone in attaining sustainable water treatment solutions.
UNIMAS is thankful to Ministry of Utility and Telecommunications Sarawak and Jabatan Bekalan Air Luar Bandar (JBALB) Sarawak for their support towards the research project since June 2023. The Vice Chancellor was represented by his Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Professor Ir. Dr. Siti Noor Linda Taib.
The launching event of Al-Jazari NR10K for peat water treatment was launched by YB Encik Awla bin Dris, the assemblyman for N25 Simunjan. Also present during the event were Prof. Dr Ahmad Hata Rasit, UNIMAS Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic & International), Mr Seroji Ludin, District Officer for Simunjan, YBrs Mdm Louella Michael from Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication, Mdm Chhoa Chia Yee (JBALB), and Associate Professor Ir Dr Norazzlina M. Sa’don, UNIMAS Faculty of Engineering Dean.
The audience also witnessed the exchange of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UNIMAS and RAF Technologies Sdn Bhd during the event.
A briefing on the technology used to treat peat water without chemical usage was delivered by Dr Rosmina Ahmad Bustami, the Director of UNIMAS Water Centre. Results from the study have also been verified by accredited laboratory results and proven safe for consumption in accordance with the National Drinking Water Standard. The researchers from both UNIMAS Water Centre and RAF Technologies Sdn Bhd expressed their interests in contributing to the government’s initiative to provide 100% treated water throughout Sarawak. They are also aiming to expand the technologies to neighbouring countries in Southeast Asia who are also facing peat water issues.
Beyond being a partnership, this collaboration represents a shared vision of ensuring clean water for all. The journey mixes academic rigor with industrial expertise, promising transformative outcomes in the domain of water treatment.
Boasting a trajectory of consistent growth over three decades, UNIMAS has become a cornerstone in the community, leaving an enduring impact on stakeholders. Situated in the heart of Borneo, the university’s dedication to excellence extends beyond academia to benefit the broader community. Today’s event serves as evidence of UNIMAS’s unwavering commitment to developing engineering solutions that foster flourishing communities and exert a positive impact on the environment.
Photos by Mohammad Fahmi Izuddin Ahmad Joyo (UNIMAS Corporate).
