RESEARCHERS FROM UPMKB WON SILVER AT MTE 2020 | UNIVERSITI PUTRA MALAYSIA BINTULU SARAWAK CAMPUS
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RESEARCHERS FROM UPMKB WON SILVER AT MTE 2020

Researchers from the Universiti Putra Malaysia Bintulu Campus (UPMKB) Sarawak won silver at the Malaysia Technology Expo (MTE 2020) for the innovation and design competition which was held at the Putra World Trade Center (PWTC) in Kuala Lumpur from February 20 to 22.

The winning innovation was put forth by UPMKB researchers, namely, Dr Ahmed Osumanu Haruna, Dr Latifah Omar and Dr Fatin Hana Naning@Zin. It demonstrated the use of agriculture waste to increase agricultural yield and is diversifiable to agriculture, livestock, aquaculture and horticulture uses.

This innovation combines the research findings on the manufacture of organic-based fertilisers made from agricultural waste such as rice husk, sago residues, snails, pineapple leaves, peat wastewater and animal waste.

All agro-based agricultural wastes have been formulated according to specific ratios and scientific methods and have been tested for their effectiveness in improving soil fertility, thus improving the yield of vegetables, corn and rice (crops being researched).

This innovation, in the manufacture of fertilisers based on organic materials, has been granted three patents in copyright by the governments of Malaysia, the Republic of Indonesia and the United States.

The research on the effectiveness of this organic based fertiliser has been tested in the Soil Science Lab at UPMKB prior to field tests. Having proven its effectiveness in improving soil fertility, the technology has since been transferred to the paddy cultivation community involving paddy growers in the Sebauh district and Sungai Asap in the Belaga district.

The use of organic-based fertiliser technology is currently active and intensified in Pekan, Pahang involving farmers under the supervision of the Integrated Agricultural Development Area (IADA).

Innovation in research under the project leader Prof. Dr. Ahmed Osumanu is not only limited to the recycling of organic waste from agricultural activities, but he has also forged various collaborations in industrial waste management with industries such as First Ferroalloys Pvt Ltd, Humibox, Luxurious Empire Pvt Ltd, Sarmag Resources Trading Pvt Ltd, Sarawak Oil Palms Limited, Ta Ann Plantation Pvt Ltd, FCA Capital Pvt Ltd and Omnia Solution.

Dr. Ahmed Osumanu has also shared knowledge and technology in organic farming with government departments such as the Pahang State Agriculture Department, IADA Pekan, Malaysian Pepper Board, Kemubu Agricultural Development Authority, and Sarawak Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Serving at UPMKB since 2009, Ahmed Osumanu has trained many talented graduates from all over the world including Dr Susilawati Kasim, Dr Latifah, Dr Ch'ng Huck Ywih, Dr Palanivell Perumal, Dr Aainaa Hasbullah, Dr Maru Ali and Dr Amelia Tang.

Regarding MTE, the annual exhibition has been held since 2001, where it hosts designers and creators to showcase the latest research-inspired innovations and inventions.

In its 19th installment, MTE has grown rapidly and has become an internationally renowned innovation and design exhibition platform that brings together a diverse group of local and international researchers, environmentalists and industry professionals.

MTE has built an outstanding culture of recognition for prestigious awards and attracts local and foreign entries by recording 500 entries annually. It also provides access to public and private institutions of higher learning, secondary schools, statutory bodies, agencies and government departments as well as industry and domestic and international events to showcase the latest innovations and inventions in line with current needs to attract investors and to enhance technology quality and collaboration between various fields of study.

 

(EXPLANATION: Ahmed Osumanu explains on the patent failing procedure to two juries during assessment session at the innovation and design competition MTE 2020 on 20th February 2020)


(ASSESSMENT: Ahmed Osumanu, assisted by Latifah, details the patent failing procedure to two juries during the assessment session at the innovation and design competition MTE 2020)


(CONGRATULATIONS: Latifah, a Dalat, Sarawak-born researcher, holds the Silver medal won at the innovation and design competition MTE 2020.)

Date of Input: 04/03/2020 | Updated: 12/03/2020 | lanz

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