CHERAS, 23 June 2025 – Innovation in conservation took a leap forward as Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) embarked on a collaborative journey with the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN). A delegation from UTM, led by Prof. Dr. Rosli bin Md Illias, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), paid a courtesy visit to PERHILITAN’s headquarters at Cheras on Monday, 23rd June 2025, at 10:00 AM. The primary objective of the visit was to explore potential collaborations that leverage UTM’s expertise to optimize PERHILITAN’s operations.

The UTM delegation included Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Roshanida binti A.Rahman, Chairman of the Health and Wellness Research Alliance, along with several researchers and faculty members from various disciplines. PERHILITAN was represented by its Director-General, YBhg. Dato’ Abdul Kadir Bin Abu Hashim, Deputy Director-Generals YBhg. Dato’ Fakhrul Hatta Bin Musa (Conservation) and YBhg. Dato’ Hasnan Bin Hj Yusop (Operations), along with division directors and state PERHILITAN directors.

During the visit, UTM presented various niche areas where its expertise could be applied, including artificial intelligence, technology and engineering solutions, and built environment approaches. PERHILITAN expressed enthusiasm for UTM’s proposals, particularly in applications such as mapping, collar design, drone technology, camera traps, wildlife confinement structure specifications, and wildlife crossing designs. Both parties also discussed potential collaboration in ecotourism and education programs focused on human-wildlife conflict management and biodiversity conservation. PERHILITAN welcomed UTM’s efforts to explore innovative solutions for wildlife management and conservation challenges. Both UTM and PERHILITAN are enthusiastic about the potential impact of the collaboration on wildlife conservation efforts in Malaysia. This partnership exemplifies a commitment to integrate advanced technologies and research expertise into practical conservation strategies, ultimately contributing to the sustainable management of Malaysia’s natural heritage.

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By: Lar. Gs. Dr. Muhammad Farid Azizul bin Azizui, Fakulti Alam Bina & Ukur