Documentation of Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) executive board and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) delegations during a courtesy visit held at ITS Rectorate Building

ITS Campus News – Strengthening the relation since the early 2000s, Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) received a courtesy visit from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) delegation on Thursday (8/9). Located at ITS Rectorate Building, the meeting agreed on more intense collaboration between these two institutions, especially in developing existing innovations.

Prof. Dr. Ir. Mochamad Ashari, The Rector of ITS, stated at the beginning of the meeting that ITS and UTM had formed a very close working relationship. It is demonstrated by numerous internationalization initiatives that ITS community members have engaged in UTM, such as IISMA, Lab-Based Internship, and the Asia Technological University Network (ATU-Net). “We sincerely hope that in the future, ITS and UTM can collaborate more quickly,” added Ashari.

The Rector of UTM, Prof. Datuk Dr. Ahmad Fauzi Ismail and his delegations while reviewing one of ITS academicians’ innovations, The e-Trail electric motor, at ITS Automotive STP

Welcoming ITS Rector’s response enthusiastically, The Rector of UTM, Prof. Datuk Dr. Ahmad Fauzi Ismail also proposed the establishment of a collaborative research unit between ITS and UTM. He expects that this idea can facilitate a collaboration between them without being hindered by distance. “It is hoped that this joint research unit, ITS and UTM, can provide something more impactful for the nation and state,” enthusiastically said by the man who is familiarly called Datuk Fauzi.

He further explained that there are at least four research areas with great potential collaboration for these two institutions, such as robotics, automotive, maritime, and biomedical engineering. Besides this collaboration, it is also expected that there will be many more joint publications between ITS and UTM researchers.

In addition to the invitation for collaboration, UTM which has got the 203rd ranked at the QS World University Ranking 2022 also supports ITS Matching-Fund Program and updates the double degree mechanism. Previously, the double degree policy at UTM has not been available yet for undergraduate students, but a new approach has made it possible now.

These numerous collaborative suggestions were also well-received by ITS executive board. One of these was revealed by the Director of Research and Community Service (DRPM) ITS, Fadlilatul Taufany, S.T., Ph.D., who indicated that ITS now has a particular research program. “Of course, we (ITS) are extremely thrilled with the participation of UTM as the key collaborator, remembering its reputation,” he stated.

The Rector of UTM, Prof. Datuk Dr. Ahmad Fauzi Ismail (right), with The Rector of ITS, Prof Dr Ir Mochamad Ashari MEng IPU AEng (center) taking a photo with ITS’s e-Trail

During the three-hour visit, The Rector of UTM and his delegations have seen numerous research advances carried out by ITS academicians. Starting trial on GESITS electric motorcycle, e-Trail, electric automobiles, and electric buses. Besides, they also make reviews on RAISA Robot, DigITS tablet, and other revolutionary products that ITS is still actively developing.

The Rector of ITS, Prof. Dr. Ir. Mochamad Ashari (left), and The Rector of UTM, Prof. Datuk Dr. Ahmad Fauzi Ismail (center), while looking at supporting components of ITS’ electric vehicles.

As a representative, Datuk Fauzi is proud of the research spirit that ITS continues to fuel to produce valuable works. “Hopefully, many inspirations we get from ITS can also be developed in our institution,” he concluded optimistically. (ITS PR)