Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) is active in applied research as shown by initiatives led by Dr Syazana Abdullah Lim, Director of Center of Research for Agri-Food Science and Technology; Dr Heru Susanto, Director of Centre for Innovative Engineering; Dr Lim Tiong Hoo, Assistant Professor of Faculty of Engineering and Dr Wida Susanty Hj Suhaili, Director of Centre for Transport Research. This collective effort reflects a unified commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global impact. UTB's commitment to research excellence is further emphasised by its recognition as the top institution for Research Citations in the Quacquarelli Symonds Asia University Ranking 2024 (QSAUR) among Institutions of Higher Learning in Brunei Darussalam.
Dr Syazana's innovative research in smart packaging harnesses the transformative potential of unconventional materials such as sago starch, durian seeds, and sugarcane bagasse. Employing cutting-edge methods like high-pressure homogenisation and ultra-fine grinding, her work not only pushes the boundaries of bio-packaging but significantly contributes to advancements in sustainable packaging. It helps to address the urgent need for eco-friendly alternatives, actively supporting a circular economy to combat plastic pollution.
Recent breakthroughs include the development of underutilised sago starch nano- and microparticles for environmentally friendly innovative packaging. Of particular note are the Smart Micro-Composites (SMCs), showcasing remarkable properties for food quality monitoring. Dr Syazana invites prospective students to contribute their skills to similar impactful endeavours, providing them with hands-on experience and opportunities to present findings at conferences while networking with industry professionals.
Under the guidance of Dr Wida, UTB's research explores advanced technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), nano, and Remote Aquaculture Systems (RAS), addressing pressing environmental issues. The ongoing projects address diverse challenges, from mitigating peatland forest fires to developing innovative flood alert systems, showcasing a systematic approach to addressing environmental concerns.
Dr Wida’s commitment as a tool for real-world solutions highlights UTB’s systematic approach. Recent breakthroughs include a flood alert system that tackles challenges posed by climate change and unpredictable weather forecasts. Advancements in hydroponic paddy plantation and IoT and RAS in marine species rearing showcase tangible impacts on food security and climate change.
UTB prioritises collaboration with organisations, fostering a strong network that allows students to understand contextual problems better and contribute to meaningful solutions. Dr Wida actively promotes interdisciplinary collaboration among students from diverse academic backgrounds, promoting a holistic perspective enriched through seminars, workshops, and conferences.
Dr Lim Tiong Hoo's cutting-edge research initiatives span Applied AI, Edge AI Optimization, GPT-3 utilisation, Reinforcement Learning (RL) and Robotics integration. His multifaceted approach extends across industries, including agriculture, aquaculture, transportation, and healthcare, aiming to advance AI while addressing global challenges and fostering sustainable development.
Research, made possible through local and international grants, aligns meticulously with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1, 2, 3, 9, 12, and 14. Dr Lim's work addresses SDGs by applying machine learning and data analytics in agriculture to enhance production and contribute to global sustainability efforts.
Prospective students are not merely observers but are actively invited to engage in ongoing research projects within the academic department. They can propose projects, participate in research groups, and explore Undergraduate/Graduate Research Programs, internships, PhD, and Master Research programmes.
Recent breakthroughs in control automation and machine learning, particularly in biomass prediction, have led to groundbreaking projects, such as an AI predictive system for biomass in prawn aquaculture. These projects, recognised with awards, showcase AI's potential in optimising farming practices, contributing substantially to sustainability and efficiency in the aquaculture industry.
Under the leadership of Dr Heru Susanto, the Director of Centre for Innovative Engineering, UTB’s impactful research spans diverse fields, including digital education, vertical rice farming, AI, renewable energy, nanotechnology, blockchain and cryptocurrency.
Digital Education initiatives focus on innovative learning management systems and virtual classroom software, enhancing the effectiveness of digital learning through face-to-face, asynchronous, and synchronous distance learning. Vertical Rice Farming, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Agrifood, utilises IoT-based solutions to monitor and regulate paddy plantations, improving seed production.
Ongoing AI and machine learning research includes advancements in deep learning, reinforcement learning, and natural language processing. UTB is also actively making AI systems more transparent and understandable through research in Explainable AI (XAI).
The university's commitment to sustainable energy production is evident in research initiatives focused on next-gen solar cells, energy storage solutions, and grid optimisation. Advances in materials science are paving the way for more efficient and eco-friendly technologies.
The university's exploration into nanotechnology continues, focusing on applying nanomaterials in medicine, electronics, and energy storage. The development of nanoscale devices for targeted objectives is a significant focus, showcasing UTB's dedication to groundbreaking advancements.
UTB is also contributing to the evolution of blockchain technologies with research aimed at improving scalability, security, and privacy. Explorations into decentralised finance (DeFi), Financial Technology (FinTech), and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are underway, including the implementation of a Blockchain Tracking System.
A distinctive feature of UTB's research ethos is the emphasis on a hands-on, student-centric approach. Students are not just passive observers; they are invited to actively engage in ongoing research projects, offering them opportunities for hands-on experimentation, data analysis, and collaborative problem-solving sessions. This ensures that students are well-prepared for dynamic careers and industry-related challenges.
Student-led research initiatives showcase the collaborative and hands-on nature of the research environment. Notable successes, including awards in prestigious competitions like the Crown Prince CIPTA 2021, exemplify the dynamic and inclusive research culture where students contribute from conception to implementation.
The university fosters collaboration between students from different academic backgrounds through interdisciplinary research groups, cross-departmental workshops, seminars, and mentorship opportunities. This approach allows students to address complex challenges by combining skills from various disciplines, encouraging collaboration and inclusive research environments.
UTB's research addresses global challenges such as climate change, food security, and technological advancements. The university's commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is evident across various initiatives, demonstrating a dedication to making meaningful contributions on a global scale.
Collaborations with industries and external partners are integral to UTB's research efforts, providing students with valuable connections, internships, and real-world exposure. Anticipated future developments include sustainable business practices, digital transformation, and FinTech, offering exciting opportunities for prospective students.
UTB is committed to integrating cutting-edge research into teaching methods, providing students with an innovative and forward-looking academic experience. Research-active faculty members seamlessly weave real-world examples from intelligent packaging, control automation, and AI into relevant courses, keeping students at the forefront of sustainable packaging advancements and AI innovations.
UTB remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge, fostering a culture of innovation, and preparing students to be leaders in their respective fields. For more information about UTB's cutting-edge research initiatives, prospective students are encouraged to visit the university's website and explore the exciting opportunities that await.
