JOHOR BAHRU, Nov 3 – Prof. Ts. Dr. Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman, FASc, of the Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering (FKT) at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), has received the 2026 Science & Technology Award from the Malaysia Toray Science Foundation (MTSF). Presented during a formal award ceremony on 3 November 2026, the award recognises his contributions to separation engineering and functional materials science. The MTSF Science & Technology Award recognises researchers whose discoveries contribute to technological progress, industrial competitiveness and national development. The recognition highlights his work in the design, fabrication and optimisation of advanced membrane technology. Throughout his career, his laboratory has focused on developing novel ceramic, polymeric and hollow-fibre membrane architectures. These systems address resource challenges and offer solutions for industrial effluent purification, seawater desalination, clean water reclamation and selective gas separation. Beyond laboratory research, Prof. Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan’s research emphasises practical impact, ensuring that academic research can benefit the industrial sector and society at large. His membrane innovations aim to reduce energy consumption in industrial separation processes and support zero-liquid-discharge frameworks, promoting environmental sustainability and circular-economy practices. These applications demonstrate how technical innovation can help mitigate industrial pollution, protect aquatic ecosystems and deliver cost-effective, scalable solutions for commercial sectors across Malaysia and the wider Southeast Asian region. The research brings together the design and fabrication of membrane materials with the development of systems for specific separation needs. Ceramic, polymeric and hollow-fibre membranes offer different material and structural approaches for applications involving water and gas separation. This work is relevant to industries facing complex resource challenges, particularly those seeking to improve effluent treatment, reclaim clean water and explore more efficient separation processes. The focus on practical applications also connects UTM’s research activities with broader efforts to strengthen environmental sustainability. Reducing energy use, managing industrial wastewater and making better use of water resources are important considerations for industries in Malaysia and the region. Through these research directions, membrane technology can contribute to solutions that address both industrial requirements and environmental concerns. The national recognition also represents a significant achievement for UTM, reflecting the university’s research ecosystem and commitment to scholarly excellence. The milestone aligns with the strategic roadmap of UTM ASCEND 2030, which prioritises innovation, cross-disciplinary problem-solving and sustainable societal transformation. UTM congratulated Prof. Ts. Dr. Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan on the achievement and acknowledged his contributions to scientific advancement, postgraduate mentorship and collaborative innovation. The university reiterated its commitment to research environments that foster international collaboration and strong industry partnerships. As Malaysia works to strengthen its science, technology and innovation landscape, achievements such as this reinforce UTM’s position as a technological university and highlight its contribution to Malaysia’s scientific development.

By Nadzreeq Nor Majid