KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 19 – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), through its Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC), is strengthening its commitment to academic excellence and global partnerships by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Université de Rennes 1 in France.

This collaboration represents an important milestone in promoting innovation, impactful research, and mutual academic development. Both institutions share a common vision of advancing scientific progress and fostering educational growth through strategic partnerships.

Under this Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and Université de Rennes 1 have agreed to collaborate in several key areas. These include exchange programs for students, faculty, and administrative staff, as well as joint research initiatives and scientific activities. Both institutions will collaborate on the development of academic publications, reports, and other scholarly materials, in addition to implementing joint programmes in areas of shared interest. Their partnership will also involve participation in academic discussions, institutional visits, conferences, and collaborative support for research centre activities and other mutually agreed initiatives.

This partnership builds upon prior engagements between the two institutions, especially in the field of membrane technology spearheaded by the Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC). It is further supported by the ongoing MyTiger Matching Grant from France, led by ChM. Dr. Mohd Akmali Mokhter as the Project Leader. Drawing on these foundations, the MoU will serve as a platform for joint research proposals to be funded by Université de Rennes 1.

UTM Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim, emphasised that the MoU reflects UTM’s proactive efforts in expanding its global research networks and innovation. He stated,
“This collaboration underscores UTM’s commitment to strengthening international research visibility and creating impactful solutions through science and technology. Together with Université de Rennes 1, we look forward to advancing knowledge and developing innovations that benefit both nations.”

Prof. Dr. Murielle Rabiller-Baudry, representing Université de Rennes 1, also expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, saying,
“We are delighted to formalise our collaboration with UTM through AMTEC. This MoU provides an excellent platform for both institutions to exchange expertise, foster research synergies, and cultivate a strong academic partnership that supports future generations of researchers and students.”

Also present at the ceremony was Prof. Ts. Dr. Juhana Jaafar, Director of AMTEC, who reaffirmed the centre’s commitment to strengthening UTM’s position as a global leader in membrane technology research.

The ceremony took place at Berjaya Times Square immediately following the Opening Ceremony of the 15th Asian Membrane Society Conference (AMS15). It concluded with the official exchange of signed documents, symbolising the beginning of a new chapter in UTM’s international collaboration efforts.

Source: UTM NewsHub