phd industry PROFILE-online

PHD INDUSTRY PROFILE

WELCOMING REMARKS

It gives me great pleasure to say a few words in this PhD Industry Profile. The main aim of this profile is to
give some information about the industrial mode PhD programme in UTM. The profile is designed to
equip industries with necessary knowledge on the background of this programme, research students,
companies involved and industry-based doctoral projects. The programme creates interest among
industries, universities and research students due to the nature of this study where a combination of
doctoral study and industrial experience generate value-innovation and high-level satisfaction. Moreover,
this combination of research and professional experience which makes gaining this Industrial mode PhD a
much sought after qualification. The industries will benefit from their participation in the industrial projects
and tighter network within the domain of public research in Malaysia. At the same time, a significant
competence development takes place at the industries through the sharing of theoretical, professional
knowledge and practical improvements of processes, services and products. To date, UTM has the highest
number of PhD Industrial students in the country with 75 students registered in various faculties in UTM. I
believed that this programme would contribute to human capital development in Malaysia and increase the
possibilities for successful academia-industry research collaborations. In addition to that, this programme
also contributes to the part of an initiative of the Malaysia Education Blueprint (Higher Education), by
having industry research partnerships to propel innovation. This will contribute to economic development
through knowledge creation and dissemination.

PROF. DR. ZAIDATUN BINTI TASIR
Dean
School of Graduate Studies
(Sekolah Pengajian Siswazah - SPS)
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

PHD INDUSTRY PROFILE

INTRODUCTION

The industrial mode PhD programme or Industrial PhD at UTM is introduced by the Ministry of Education (KPM) with
financial incentives under the My Brain 15 PhD Industry Scholarship scheme. It is an alternative to the conventional
PhD, suited to the needs of industry and providing more practical oriented doctorate. This programme focuses on
professionals and industry practitioners with the aim to produce and enhance innovations and competitiveness via
industry-based research. The research scope is based on industrial issues or real problems at their workplaces relating to
their jobs, and in their respective field of specializations. The Industrial PhD programme distinct from the conventional
PhD degree in term of mode of research but preserves the mark of original or innovative research and scholarship
expected of a doctoral study. Industry benefits from access to innovative and valuable knowledge acquired by the student
and the university gains access to new knowledge and innovation provided by the industry.

To date UTM has the highest number of PhD Industrial students in the country with 75 students registered in various
faculties in UTM. Some of the UTM industrial partners are Proton, Telekom Malaysia Berhad, Intel Microelectronics
(M) Sdn Bhd, Seagate International (Johor) Sdn Bhd, Motorola, Boustead Naval Shipyard Sdn Bhd, Sarawak Shell
Berhad, Malakoff Corporation Berhad, Petronas Carigali and MISC Berhad. With the objective of strengthening
cooperation between UTM and the industries, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is undertaken to promote co-
operation between both parties in research and collaboration activities.

The key concept of PhD Industry, besides transfer of knowledge from academia to industry, is the knowledge transfer
from industry to academia due to possibilities to generate know-what about technological problems, user requirements
and market trends, and identification of new innovative research questions, as well as providing important input to
academia regarding actual problems experienced in industry. As a result, the Industrial PhD focuses the solution of
significant industrial problems and a value of doctoral level.

PHD INDUSTRY PROFILE

FEATURES

Research at student workplace

The topic and scope based on real problems at student workplace, problems related to their jobs
and in their respective field of specialization

Research projects which have the potential in improving the operations, services and management
of the company

Conferment of the PhD is subject to fulfilment of the existing UTM rules and regulations related to
postgraduate studies

Joint supervision by experts from the University and Industry

Industrial based PhD distinct from the conventional PhD in terms of mode of research but
maintains original or innovative research and scholarship expected of a doctoral study

PhD student employed by a private company during entire research work but registered as a PhD
candidate at UTM

Organisation or company benefits from new and valuable knowledge acquired by student during
his/her doctoral research

The University gains new knowledge and innovation provided by the respective
organizations/companies

PHD INDUSTRY PROFILE

Role of University and Industry

ROLE OF UNIVERSITY ROLE OF INDUSTRY

• Identify Academic • Identify projects in the
Supervisor. industry.

• Provide accredited quality • Ensuring continuous
academic program. commitment of the industry
and the candidate for the
• Provide necessary training project sustainability.
i.e. coursework, research
skills training and • Provide resources for the
supervision while the Research, and Provide an
project is conducted in the Industry Supervisor for the
industry. student.

PHD INDUSTRY PROFILE

RESEARCH STUDENTS

ABRARI BIN SALLEH LEE YUN FOOK NOREEN BINTI MOHD ARIFF
AFIFA SAFIRA BINTI A. GANI LIEW CHEE LEONG PARTHIBALN SIWAYANAN
AHMAD FAIZAL BIN OTHMAN LIZA @ SRI REDZEKI BINTI MOHD ANUAR RAJESHPARAN RANGARAJ

AHMAD FAZRUL SHAHRIL BIN TAJUDDEEN MASJURAIZI BIN CHE SOH RAVI KRISHNAN
AL-SHAFIQ BIN ABDUL WAHID MAZLAN BIN ISMAIL RIDZUAN BIN BUYONG
AZAH BINTI ABDUL KADIR MD RIDZUAN BIN MD YUSOF ROKIAH BINTI HASSAN
AZMER BIN SHAMSUDDIN MOHAMAD TAISIR BIN ABDULLAH ROSDAN BIN ROSMAN

CHAN BOON CHEW MOHAMAD ZAMARI BIN BASNUN ROSLAN BIN OMAR
CHAN TZE LEONG MOHAMMAD ZAHARI SUKIMI BIN MAT ZAID ROZZAMIR BIN CHE ROSLEE
CHEE LEE PHENG MOHD AZMAN BIN ABAS SAHRUL HILMI IBRAHIM
CLEMENT CORNELIUS SCULLY MOHD HAZLEY BIN HALIM SIDEQ BIN SALLEH
ELVIN VIJAYA KUMAR KARUNNANITHI MOHD LATIFF BIN AHMAD SITI HAJAR BINTI SALIM
EZANIZAM BIN MAT SOM MOHD OMAR MUKHTAR BIN ZAINUL AZMI SITI MARIAH BT ABDUL MURAD

EZUWANA BINTI AHMAD MOHD SHAHRIL SALLEH SITI NARISA BINTI MOHD IDRIS
GUNALAN KRISHNAN MOHAMED SHAMAUN BIN YUSHAK SRITHARAN SANGARAN
HAIROL AZHAR BIN YAAKOB MOHD SHUKRI BIN BONGSU SYAMSURI BIN YAAKOB
HARRIS BIN ABD RAHMAN SABRI MOHD ZURIX BIN MOHAMED TAN BENG CHIAT

IKHWAN BIN MD TAB MUHAMAD SUHAIMI BIN DERIS THEN KEK HOE
IRWANA BINTI ABD MALEK MUHAMMAD FAUZI BIN ABDUL KADIR YUSAINI HISHAM BIN MOHAMED
JASMI BIN MOHD SA’AT MUHAMMAD HAFIZAN BIN YOSRI ZAINUDIN BIN ALIAS
JEYANTHI RAMASAMY MUHAMMED ANWAR BIN ABU BAKAR ZULHASNI BIN ABDUL RAHIM
KARTINA BINTI ABDUL LATIF MUKHLIS CHUA ZULI’ZAM BIN RASHID
KHAILASH DHASAN VELAUTHAM NOOR HISHAM BIN ISMAIL ZULKEFLEE BIN MOHAMMAD

KUMARESAN ARUMUGAM NOR AZHADI BIN NGAH ZULKIFLI AMBAK
KOH JUNG HUNG NOR AZIZI BIN MAZALAN

PHD INDUSTRY INDUSTRIAL PARTNERS

PHD INDUSTRY PROFILE

GRADUATED

Ir. Dr. SYAMSURI BIN YAAKOB
TELEKOM MALAYSIA BERHAD

PhD (Electrical Engineering)
SUPERVISORS:
Prof. Dr. Sevia Mahdaliza Bt. Idrus
SutanNameh (UTM)
Dr. Muhammad Zamzuri Abdul Kadir (TMB)
THESIS TITLE:
Millimetre-wave Radio Over Fibre System
With Selective Gigabit-per-second Signal
Delivery

PHD INDUSTRY PROFILE

GRADUATED

Dr. CHAN TZE LEONG
PROTON HOLDINGS BERHAD

PhD (Management)
SUPERVISORS:
Prof. Dr. Amran Bin Mohd Rasli (UTM)
En. Wan Roslan Bin Wan Abbas (PROTON)
THESIS TITLE:
Relationship between Mindfulness,
Innovative Work Behavior and Performance
in the Malaysian Automotive Industry

PHD INDUSTRY PROFILE

GRADUATED

Ir. Dr. PARTHIBAN SWAYANAN
PENTAMODEN SDN BHD

ENGINEERING DOCTORATE
(PROCESS PLANT MANAGEMENT)
SUPERVISORS:
Prof. Ramlan Aziz & Prof. Dr. Nooh Abu Bakar (UTM)
Hj Hamdan Ya (PENTAMODEN SDN BHD)
THESIS TITLE:
Production, Characterization and Pre-
Commercialization of Laundry Detergent Powders
Incorporated with Palm C16 Methyl Ester Sulphonates

PHD INDUSTRY PROFILE

GRADUATED

Dr. MOHD SHAHRIL BIN SALLEH
TELEKOM RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT SDN BHD

PhD (Electrical Engineering)
SUPERVISORS:
Prof. Ir. Dr. Abu Sahmah Bin Mohd Supaat (UTM)
Dr. Zulkalnain Bin Mohd Yusof (TMB)
THESIS TITLE:
Fiber Access for Mobile Backhaul Networking using Passive
Optical Network (PON) System

PHD INDUSTRY PROFILE

GRADUATED

Dr. ZULHASNI BIN ABDUL RAHIM

PROTON HOLDINGS BERHAD

PhD (Mechanical Engineering)
SUPERVISORS:
Prof. Dr. Nooh Bin Abu Bakar (UTM)
Mr. Rusley Bin Ismail (PROTON)
THESIS TITLE:
Advance Measuring Equipment for Accuracy between
Portable Coordinate Measuring Machine and Lay-out
Machine

PHD INDUSTRY PROFILE

GRADUATED

Dr. MUKHLIS CHUA
INTER-GRANITE SDN BHD

ENGINEERING DOCTORATE
(PROCESS PLANT MANAGEMENT)
SUPERVISORS:
Prof. Ir. Dr. Salman Leong (UTM)
Ar. Hajah Kaniza Binti Shafie (INTER-GRANITE SDN BHD)
THESIS TITLE:
Ultrasonic Guided Wave for Structural Health Monitoring of
Pipeline

THE IMPAIdCeTnOtifFicSatEiRonVaICnEd QDeUvAelLoIpTmYeAntMoOf CNriGticWal ACrTitEeRriaOfPoEr RWAaTteOrRS AND
SEWERAGEACsOseMts PMAaNnaIEgSemINenMt ALAYSIA

MOHD HAZLEY BIN HALIM

ABRARI BIN SALLEH

THEN KEK HOE

SURUHANJAYA PERKHIDMATAN AIR
NEGARA

SUPERVISORS:
Prof. Dr. Ir. Sha'ri Bin Mohd Yusof (UTM)

Mr. Mohd Ridhuan Bin Ismail (SPAN)

This study explored the impact of service quality of water and sewerage operators towards sustainable
economic, environment and social development in Malaysia. The sustainability factor is vital in
determining the company’s profitability while their service quality is equally important to ensure they
remain relevant to their customers. The study focused on the service quality of the water and sewerage
operators and the differences of its service quality between migrated operators and non-migrated
operators. Questionnaires were analyzed using SERVQUAL to compute the service-quality gap based on
five independent variables namely tangibles, reliability, responsiveness, assurance and empathy. Other
descriptive methods such as t-test, chi-square, spearman correlation and multiple regressions were used to
determine the differences and relationships of the hypothesis. The results can be used as a reference and
guidance for SPAN to analyze the performance of the water and sewerage operators in Malaysia.

KINEMATIIdCenEtNifiEcRaGtioYnAanNdADLeYvSeIloSpUmSeInNt Gof SCrEiWticEaRl CCrAiteDriVa 8foi rAWSaHteYrDRAULIC
MODELING TAOssOetLsIMNaEnXagISeTmINenGt SEWERAGE
RETICULATION IN MALAYSIA

MOHD HAZLEY BIN HALIM

AFIFA SAFIRA BINTI A. GANI

THEN KEK HOE

INDAH WATER KONSORTIUM SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. C. Shreeshivadasan (UTM)

Ir. Mohd Adnan Bin Md Dom (IWK)

Hydraulic energy is an important parameter in sewerage design and it is a non-physical byproduct in the
sewerage system. The current design method is to calculate the flow and velocity without taking into
account the energy characteristics of the design. The energy calculation determines the physical
sustainability of the design, other than its indirect impact to the environment. This research aims to
develop a formula or 3D graph to be used in reticulation design for hydraulic energy in Malaysia. A
sustainability rate or percentage for pipe physical properties in relation to hydraulic energy was
developed. In addition, a calculative environmental impact related to hydraulic energy was also
examined. The results from this study may improvise the existing guidelines used in sewerage design. It
may also help to determine the service effective period for any design proposed, besides introducing a
new technique of calculative environment impact associated with the design.

MULTICASTIdTeRnAtiFfiFcaICtioSnUaRnVdIDVeAvBelIoLpITmYenAtPoPfRCOritAicCaHl CErSiteFrOiaRfoNr WEXaTteGr ENERATION
WAVELENGTH DIVISION AMssUeLtsTIMPLaEnXagINemGe(nWt DM) OPTICAL NETWORKS

MOHD HAZLEY BIN HALIM

AHMAD FAISAL BIN OTHMAN

TELEKOM MALAYSIA BERHAD

SUPERVISORS:
Prof. Dr. Sevia Mahdaliza Bt. Idrus Sutan Nameh (UTM)

Dr. Abdul Fatah Bin Awang Mat (TM)

The development of Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) technologies has increased enormously the
transmission capacity of optical networks. However, any failure in the network can result in huge data loss
and traffic block. For this reason, network operators must apply the necessary mechanism to guarantee
resilience to fulfill the Service Level Agreement (SLA) terms. Survivability means that the networks have the
ability to maintain an acceptable level of service even after a failure within the network. This requirement
becomes more critical as the size and usage of the network increases. Thus, this research attempted to
improve the network performance during network failure and the Quality of Services (QoS). A new WDM
optical network was designed that can survive from the network failure. The cost advantages of this scheme
in terms of operation expenditures (Opex) were also estimated.

DEVELOPMIdeEnNtiTficOatFioSnTAanTdAIODUNAeTvsOseCelMOotspANmMTTeaIROnnOtaNogLfLeTCEmErRSeitTniFcItOaNlRGCrTitOerOiaLfoOrPWEaRtAerTION AND

MOHD HAZLEY BIN HALIM

AHMAD FAZRUL SHAHRIL BIN TAJUDDEEN

INTEL

SUPERVISORS:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Toni Anwar (UTM)
Mr. Lee Sherman Chan Wai (INTEL)

Station Controllers (SC) are Intel-written programs running on PC platforms called win clients that are
designed to give straightforward, consistent access to the tool operation as well as integration with other
automation systems, such as the Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and the material handling
systems. An Embedded Controller (EC) is a piece of software running on an on-tool computer that the tool
vendor maintains. It controls the tool directly. Defects introduced in one piece may not be discovered until
it is tested with others. These gaps can be difficult and time-consuming, even when both parties (vendors
and Intel) have rigorous internal testing schemes and adhere to the standards required. When there is a
problem with an embedded controller, long time is needed for the vendor to discover and perform the
correction. Accordingly, the aim of this research was to develop a new remote testing platform and tool for
vendors to achieve fast solutions by engaging both in the testing.

SHIP AVAILABILITY-BASED CONTRACT MANAGEMENT MODEL FOR IN SERVICE
SUPPORT (ISS) CONTRACTS ON MAINTENANCE OF NAVAL VESSELS

AL-SHAFIQ BIN ABDUL WAHID

BOUSTEAD NAVAL SHIPYARD SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Zamani Bin Ahmad (UTM)
Ir. Syed Amir Bin Syed Alwi Shahabudin (BOUSTEAD)

The rapid development of the shipbuilding and ship repair industry in recent years has
transformed the way organizations perceive the profitability and potential future growth of
the marine industry. Existing in Service Support (ISS) contracts for maintenance of naval
vessels in Malaysia only support legacy and static clauses and do not take into account the
changing context and the dynamic project conditions based on predictive methodology. A
model needs to be produced that context-aware and responsive to stakeholder’s objectives
and targets, with the ability to simulate various future conditions impacting vessel
availability by amending contract clauses. The main achievement of the research included the
identification and analysis of the various Downtime Influence Factors (DIF) impacting naval
ship availability. Secondly, was the ability to segregate the DIFs into Contract and Project
Management terms that were more familiar to Contract and Project Managers. Finally, the
successful development and demonstration of an Availability-based Contract Management
Model that could assist in determining appropriate clauses for future ISS Contracts of Naval
Vessels.

DESIGNING AND IMPLEMENTING INTEGRATED QUALITY SAFETY AND
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IN THE OIL GAS EPCIC
CONTRACTORS

AZAH BINTI ABDUL KADIR

LEIGHTON OFFSHOTRHE ESDNNKBEHKD HOE

SUPERVISORS:
Dr. Shamsul Bin Sarip (UTM)
Mr. Steve Conroy (LEIGHTON)

Industries such as manufacturing, construction, oil and gas, automobile, airlines and many others involve
different business processes and control activities. The Oil and Gas Marine Engineering, Procurement,
Construction, Installation and Commissioning (EPCIC) Contractors are lacking knowledge on the best
strategies in designing and implementing according to their business needs. This is due to lack of
experience and availability of specific industry strategies. Accordingly, this study attempted to assess the
status of Integrated Management System (IMS) design and implementation in the Oil and Gas Marine
Contractors. Specifically, this study aimed at examining the strategies employed by the Oil and Gas Marine
Contractors in designing and implementing the IMS. Best strategies in designing and implementation of the
IMS were developed. Initial investigation conducted on five companies showed that all have different
approaches in designing and implementing the IMS. However, all of them agreed on the benefits of the
IMS.

PROCESS IMPROVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE OPTIMIZATION OF A PALM
OIL DRY FRACTIONATION PLANT

AZMER BIN SHAMSUDDIN

LAHAD DATU EDIBLE OILS SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Ir. Dr. Mohd Kamaruddin Bin Abd Hamid (UTM)

Mr. Angan Bin Mapa (LDEO)

This study focused on the development of a new methodology for the process improvement and
performance optimization of the palm oil dry fractionation plant. There are over 40 dry fractionation plants
in Malaysia which handle about 18 million tons of palm oil per year. An improvement of just 1-2% of
production yield will reflect higher income not only to the palm oil players but also to the nation. The
proposed framework included the process improvement and trial run on different cooling recipes and
operating parameters to ensure that the quality specifications were satisfied, able to produce the right
cooling curves and crystals, the plant performance were optimized, utilities usage were reduced and able to
achieve high olein yield at the lower production cost. The study on the influence of various Crude Palm Oil
(CPO) qualities on Refined Bleached Deodorized Palm Oil (RBDPO) can help to adjust the plant running
condition. The proposed guideline from this study can be used by other palm oil companies.

INVESTIGATION OF INDUSTRIAL COOLING WATER CRYSTAL GROWTH
INHIBITION BY CHEMICAL TREATMENT

CHAN BOON CHEW

i-CHEM SOLUTION SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ramli Bin Mat (UTM)

Mr. Lee Tiong Do (i-CHEM)

The formation of scales or deposits on industrial cooling water system has been known to pose significant
problems to the industrial processes. The scales or deposits serve as a heat insulating layer that reduces heat
transfer efficiency and hence require higher energy consumption to attain the desired cooling or heating
effect. Therefore, it is vital to ensure that heat transfer surfaces on industrial cooling water systems are
relatively free from scaling and deposition problem. This study provided a method that enables the evaluation
of various scale inhibitors via static beaker tests at the practical dosage level and economically viable range
at various water chemistries encountered in the market place. Using the Responsive Surface Methodology
(RSM), it enabled the development and formulation of effective and cost competitive cooling water treatment
program that suits a given water chemistry at relatively low cost. Crystal growth inhibition mechanism was
studied on the trial formulation via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM).

DEVELOPMENT OF PRODUCTION DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR
BATCH/SEMI-BATCH EMULSION PLANT

CHEE LEE PHENG

POLYMER LATEX SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Prof. Dr. Ir. Dominic Foo Chuan Yee (UTM)
Mr. Syahrizan Syahrim Bin Abdul Majid (POLYMER LATEX)

The aim of this research was to develop a systematic production decision support system based on aggregate
planning framework for an emulsion plant. A pinch analysis graphical approach and simulation model to
improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the decision was used. This system deals directly on the product
grades without disaggregate the product group. At the same time, this system also provided a full
understanding of the situation of the multi-products of batch and a semi-batch process of the emulsion plant.
The production decision support system demonstrated the simplicity and practicality of the research work in
aggregate planning for the industry. The study included analysis of the state-of-the-art techniques of pinch
analysis, batch/semi-batch process and product characterization, establishment of key levels which determine
the plant capacity and capability, and development of a production support system based on the aggregate
planning framework. In addition, the support system was compared with two different companies with an
experience-based approach.

DEVELOPMENT OF RISK BASED DYNAMIC
SCHEDULING AND TRACKING USING FUZZY METHOD

CLEMENT CORNELIUS SCULLY

MISC BERHAD

SUPERVISORS:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Zamani Bin Ahmad (UTM)

Mr. Adi Putra Bin Elias (MISC)

Project scheduling, risk analysis and project tracking are key parameters to a project’s success or failure.
Project managers are often faced with critical decision-making situations, which may lead to project
rescheduling due to uncertainties such as a change of project conditions, limited resources, late equipment
arrival or major lengthy repair work. These events are normally bound to happen and may come as a
surprise to many at a critical stage of the project. Accordingly, in this study a dynamic schedule was
developed, where each activity was analyzed based on the sensitivity towards the critical path that has a
higher risk to cause project delays. Tracking of overall project performances was also evaluated. The
outcome of this research can be used in the Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation and
Commissioning (EPCIC) stages in a floater conversion project for oil and gas industries. The risk and mitigation
analysis was conducted in each EPCIC stages with risk-probability impact matrix.

INVESTIGATION ON RESCUE PLAN TO REDUCE SUSPENSION TRAUMA ON
PERSON SUSPENDED BY FALL ARREST SYSTEM

ELVIN VIJAYA KUMAR KARUNNANITHI

GAMA SAFETY SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Prof. Dr. Ir. Sha'ri Bin Mohd Yusof (UTM)
Ms. Kawri Narayansamy (GAMA SAFETY)

The construction sector is one of the largest sectors in many parts of the world and has been regarded as the
most dangerous and hazardous workplace. Falls continue to be one of the most common accidents at
construction workplace. Suspension trauma known as “harness-induced pathology” or “orthostatic shock
while suspended” is the natural physiological response to the human body being held motionless in a
vertical position for a period of time, resulting in presyncopal symptoms or loss of consciousness. The aim of
this research was to develop a fall protection plan by including basic engineering, administrative as well as
personal protective equipment hazard control methods, develop a specific training program to train
competent person and investigate fall hazard. Initial data analysis showed that the majority of the main
contractors who carry out the construction works within Klang Valley had no knowledge on suspension
trauma and rescue plan in their workplace.

GLOBAL ULTIMATE STRENGTH ASSESSMENT AND RELIABILITY BASED
DESIGN AND RE-ASSESSMENT OF LIFETIME AGEING OFFSHORE PLATFORM

EZANIZAM BIN MAT SOM

SHELL SARAWAK BERHAD

SUPERVISORS:
Dr. Mohd Khairi Bin Abu Husain (UTM)

Mr. Farourke Bin Parson (SHELL)

Offshore structures are in the course of lifetime subject to fatigue loading, corrosion, accidental loading and
changes that could each influence the overall reliability and integrity. There are issues of structure integrity

and reliability where major modification and fatigue concerns have given significant impact to ageing and
existing platform loading. Evaluation of possible life extension of ageing existing platforms and structure
failure is expected when the strength capacity cannot resist the applied load. Thus, from this research, a new

best practice method was suggested and recommended for industry benefit. The probability of failure for the
assessed 33 years ageing platform was determined to evaluate the possible life extension of 25 years design

life of production with regard to the impact of wave in deck and reliability of the platform. The accuracy and
effectiveness of the method could help the industry, especially during the decision-making and achieve the
exploration target.

IMPACT OF ISO 14001 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS ON THE
PERFORMANCE OF CERTIFIED COMPANIES IN MALAYSIA

EZUWANA BINTI AHMAD

AJA EQS CERTIFICATION (M) SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Assoc. Prof. Ir. Dr. Mohd. Fadhil Bin Md Din (UTM)
Ms. Sharifah Aisyah Bt. Syed Abdullah (AJA EQS)

The importance of an ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems (EMS) is becoming widely known
across all industrial sectors. However, due to certain constraint, few studies shows that low acceptance
level of ISO 14001 standards due to high cost, lack of skill personnel or Problem Solving Ability (PSA) and
No Performance Standard (NPS). Hence, the objective of this study was to identify problems during the
implementation of EMS, to determine the clauses in ISO 14001 that frequently causing problems, to identify
Environmental Cost-Benefit (ECB) obtained by the certified companies and none-certified companies and to
identify any external variables that might affect the ECB. Data collection was divided into two parts; an
actual report from the certification body and secondary data from a questionnaire distributed among
certified and non-certified company. All data was analyzed using SPSS 16 and the initial results showed
that the highest problem occurred due to lack of skilled worker and the most frequent mistake was at
EMS clause 4.4.6 Operational Control.

DEVELOPMENT OF CONSTRUCTION RISK MANAGEMENT FOR BIOREFINERY
DEVELOPMENT USING ENGINEERING, PROCUREMENT AND CONSTRUCTION

CONTRACTING STRATEGY

GUNALAN KRISHNAN

MYBIOMASS SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Ir. Dr. Syuhaida Bt. Ismail (UTM)
Ms. R.Puvaneswari (MYBIOMASS)

Risk management is an integral part of an effective procurement. It begins with the identification of
sources of different risks and continues through the Project Life Cycle (PLC). Arguably, identification and
consideration of risk in the infancy of a project leads to a more satisfactory project for all parties. Central
to this, the procurement methods for the construction industry which can be defined as the organizational
structure adopted by the client for the management of the design and construction of a project. The
selection of an appropriate procurement method can reduce construction project costs and may enhance
the probability of project success. As a result, the aim of this study was to select and develop a
construction risk management for biorefinery engineering and construction projects. The selection of
procurement system becomes a very important task for clients since employing an inappropriate
procurement system may lead to project failure. Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) is usually
the most desirable procurement contractual form, because by this route all risks associated with the
project will transfer to the contractors and will provide the owner with more certainty regarding the
project outcomes.

INVESTIGATION OF THE OIL SPILLAGE RESPONSE READINESS IN
SEA AND INLAND WATER SYSTEM

HAIROL AZHAR BIN YAAKOB

BC PETROLEUM SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Abdul Rahman Bin Abdul Rahim (UTM)

Mr. Robin Simpson (BC PETROLEUM)

Malaysia is surrounded by water, from Perlis to Sabah, and the area is used by ships for oil and gas
transportation activities. As a result, there is a requirement to respond effectively to oil spills and it is
generally managed by the Production Sharing Companies (PSC). Although all PSC are mandatory to
develop and manage their own Oil Spill Response System, tragedy may lead to catastrophic which may
limit the PSC capability. This study focused on the review of the National Oil Spill Response Plan, as well as
a survey on the capabilities of all identified government and non-government agencies for the oil spill
response. Specifically, this study identified the problem in the work force, potential disaster due to the
weakness of the system and proposed a new system of improvement. A comparison with past disaster
management such as the Macondo case was also examined.

INVESTIGATION OF CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS OF TURBOMACHINERY
PROJECT MANAGEMENT IN OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY

HARRIS BIN ABD RAHMAN SABRI

PETRONAS CARIGALI SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Abdul Rahman Bin Abdul Rahim (UTM)

Mr. Haris Bin Abdul Majid (PETRONAS CARIGALI)

In general, there is no specific Critical Success Factor (CSF) in managing the turbomachinery project in oil and
gas (O & G) industry except the technical standards used worldwide, such as the American Petroleum
Institute (API), American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) as well as the Company Technical Standards
(CTS). This study emerged with the aim of developing a framework of CSF for turbomachinery project
management for O&G industry. The specific objective of this study was to identify the current application of
turbomachinery project management and problems affecting the performance of the O & G project. Solutions
were proposed to the problems and a critical success factor was identified for a better execution of the
turbomachinery project management. The research was carried out using a questionnaire to the O & G
industry players who are directly involved in the execution of the turbomachinery project management.

MANAGING AS-BUILT ENGINEERING DRAWING OF OFFSHORE FACILITIES
THROUGH INTELLIGENT 3D MODEL

IKHWAN BIN MD TAB

TALISMAN SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Prof. Dr.Nooh Bin Abu Bakar (UTM)
Dr. Mohd Harridon Bin Mohamed Suffian (TALISMAN)

Engineering drawings are important documents and their accuracy as per actual
condition at the site are vital for safe execution of work. Traditionally, prior to any
modification, extensive as-built exercise was required through site survey to ensure the
accuracy of the drawings. These activities involve mobilizing limited experienced
surveyor and time-consuming. For offshore facilities where accessibility is limited, this
exercise involved a significant amount of time, energy and exposed to several risks. By
utilizing an intelligent 3D model of the offshore facilities (developed during Front End
Engineering Design (FEED) and during detailed design or fabrication stage), key
drawings can be generated automatically and accurately. In most cases, this intelligent
3D model is not updated and unutilized after the installation of the offshore platform.
Updating this intelligent 3D model through laser scanning survey minimized the
generation of key engineering drawings and avoided expensive and risky offshore site
visit.

DEVELOPMENT OF MATERIAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR SUPPLY CHAIN
ACTIVITIES

IRWANA BINTI ABD MALEK

TDK-LAMBDA MALAYSIA SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Abdul Rahman Bin Abdul Rahim (UTM)

Mr. John Laing Apoi (TDK-LAMBDA)

Short delivery lead time and efficient management on material inventories are two
crucial elements that determine the competitiveness of many contracts assemble
manufacturers. This study focused on improving product lead time to meet customer
requirement and increase customer satisfaction. The root causes of product lead-time
and the relationship between reducing raw material lead-time and improving product
lead time are investigated. Material classification and raw material improvement
strategy were reviewed to develop and enhance current material strategy. The supplier
material management system was developed to improve the total supply chain system.
Information sharing from manufacturer to suppliers and from suppliers to the
manufacturer is important to ensure manufacturer can get delivery information timely
for their production schedule. Information from manufacturer to suppliers provided an
advantage for suppliers to prepare the raw material, and capacity plan to meet the
manufacturers requirement.

REMANUFACTURING OF MI- MELT INDEX MACHINE WITH ADDITIONAL
FEATURES

JASMI BIN MOHD SA'AT

GERMAN MALAYSIA INSTITUTE

SUPERVISORS:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Khairur Rijal Bin Jamaludin (UTM)

Mr Mohd Fauzi Bin Abd Rahman (GMI)

Remanufacturing has recently gained significant importance because of increased awareness by corporate
leaders. This study focused on the MI- Melt index Machine that was used to test the plastic molding resin
viscosity and melt flow rate. The resin was tested at a specifically recommended temperature determined
by the pallet manufacturer. The two parameters were important for the quality justifications as required by
the consumers. Evaluations were carried out on the acceptable tolerances between the actual and original
documented data such as temperature, weight and time. The analysis included acceptable machine
specification such as sequence, replacement of compatible parts, individual component testing, the accuracy
and flexibility of software and analysis on the component replacement and selection.

ASSESSMENT OF SUBSEA ASSET INTEGRITY FRAMEWORK FOR PROJECT
EXECUTION PHASE

JEYANTHI RAMASAMY

SHELL MALAYSIA

SUPERVISORS:
Prof. Dr. Ir. Sha'ri Bin Mohd Yusof (UTM)

Mr. Adam Kuzmicki (SHELL)

Asset integrity is a continuous process of knowledge and applied throughout asset lifecycle to manage
risk. Traditional petroleum topside facilities have common access from topside. Unlike topside facility, the
subsea asset has no direct access and has very little human interaction and intervention. Very little
emphasis was carried out on the asset integrity during the project stage, particularly during the subsea
development that requires higher due diligent because of complexity. Therefore, the aim of this study was
to determine the subsea asset integrity, identify the obstacles of implementing subsea asset integrity and
develop an asset integrity framework for the subsea asset. Questionnaires were used mainly from the
subsea project delivery organizations and a pilot test was also conducted and analyzed. It was expected
that by having the integrity framework it will benefit the petroleum companies in Malaysia.

EXPLORATION ON HUMAN RESOURCE TRANSFORMATION
IN THE MALAYSIAN BANKING SECTOR

KARTINA BINTI ABDUL LATIF

PwC CONSULTING SERVICES (M) SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nik Hasnaa Bte Nik Mahmood (UTM)

Mr. Sundara Raj (PwC)

Research shows that aggressive global expansion and changing workforce characteristics have elevated
the importance of recruiting, talent management, and performance management. The aim of this research
was to explore global and local trends in banking sector specially on the Malaysia’s financial industry,
which represents a core component and key driver of the Malaysian economy, in tandem with the needs
of a high-income nation. The specific objectives of this study were to identify how human resources
executives successfully transform their organizations to support business leaders and identify the major
shift a human resources organization undergoes when it truly transforms its capabilities. The research
was performed using quantitative (survey) and qualitative (structured interviews) approaches. The
interviews were carried out with selected industry players comprising of local banks and foreign banks
to gather greater insights on human resource priorities and activities.

TREATMENT OF STORM WATER CONTAINING JET FUEL/OIL BY NOVEL
CORRUGATED PLATE INTERCEPTOR

KHAILASH DHASAN VELAUTHAM

SWA WATER MALAYSIA SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. C. Shreeshivadasan (UTM)

Ms. Tamarai Muthusamy (SWA)

The storm water running off the aircraft hard stand area was treated by some below ground oil
separators. The challenge was to treat the oily contaminated storm water that has influent
criteria of 4250 ppm and to achieve an effluent criteria of 5ppm as per the BS EN 858 standard. The
oil separators comprise below horizontal ground tanks, containing coalescing plate packs to
achieve the separation of hydrocarbons from the water phase. The aim of this research was to
design an oil separator tank and a plate packs for the treatment of storm water contaminated
with jet fuel. The research focused on the flow rate calculation, influent criteria, the effect of
operating conditions and storage volume, hydrocarbon removal efficiency, and modeling of the
storm water treatment system.

SAFE AND EFFICIENT USE OF LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS (LPG) AS DIRECT
“DROP IN” REFRIGERANT IN AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS

KOH JUNG HUNG

KEJURUTERAAN MUAFAKAT SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zainal Bin Zakaria (UTM)

Dr. Devaraj Veerasamy (KM)

Malaysia as the one of the signatories of the Montreal Protocol had agreed to cut down 10%
of hydro chlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) usage by 2015. This study was conducted to verify the

claims of using commercial grade Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) as not a viable option as
compared to the refrigerant grade propane (R 290). A comparison test of various blends of
LPG was conducted with HCFC R22 and refrigerant grade propane (R290) in an

environmental chamber. The results were tabulated to obtain the Coefficient of
Performance (COP) of each refrigerant. The test was performed according to the Malaysian

Standard for Non-Ducted Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps-Testing and Rating
Performance. Stimulation exercises using the ANSYS FLUENT was conducted on a 1 hp wall
mounted air conditioner placed at 1.8 m from the finished floor in a room measuring of 3.0 x

3.0 x 2.5 m for a leaking LPG.

SERVICE IMPROVEMENT THROUGH KNOWLEDGE NETWORK
MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR EVENT

KUMARESAN ARUMUGAM

TELEKOM MALAYSIA BERHAD

SUPERVISORS:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kamarulnizam Bin Abu Bakar (UTM)

Mr. Mohd Zaidi Bin Mohd Basir (TM)

The success of Network Event Management in an organization depends on appropriate knowledge
management. In the present study, interviews, surveys, researched theories and models were used to
examine the hypothesis. An interview conducted with the higher management of TM revealed that there
were several issues within the organization such as communication, overall network operation and process.
Meanwhile, the survey conducted with the technical team on the network works highlighted that the
knowledge transfer approaches and tools exercised by TM helped them through simplified work. Some
poorly organized knowledge management system in TM was also identified as one of the cause for the
Network Event Management failure. At the same time the adequate knowledge transfer that was one of the
components of the knowledge management had helped in several activities. In summary, appropriate
knowledge management is significant for the success of Network Event Management in an organization.

EFFECT OF DESIGN PEAK FACTOR TO THE CAPITAL COST OF SEWERAGE
PROJECTS

LEE YUN FOOK

SEPAKAT SETIA PERUNDING SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Abdull Rahim Bin Mohd Yusoff (UTM)

Ir. Dr. Lim Phaik Leng (SSP)

Local research findings and feedback from industry revealed that the Design Peak
Factor (DPF) of sewerage service is over provided. These may lead to the higher
capital and Operation and Maintenance cost throughout the service life of the
sewerage system. The aim of this study was to prove that the DPF is higher than the
Actual Peak Factor (APF) in the sewerage services and to evaluate the financial
effect. Initial investigation showed that the hourly flow data collected from five
Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) were over provided in the range of 23 to 63%
compared to the calculated APF. In addition, a comparison with the Malaysian DPF
with six international Peak Factor (PF) showed that the Malaysian DPF was high
from 10,000 Population Equivalent (PE) onward. The study also revealed that the
international PF values were smaller than the Malaysian by 7 to 56% and the capital
cost saving was 7 to 20 % for 16 individual zones.

ESTABLISHMENT OF VEHICLE ACCELERATED CORROSION TEST PROCEDURE IN
MALAYSIA

LIZA @ SRI REDZEKI BINTI MOHD ANUAR

PROTON HOLDINGS BERHAD

SUPERVISORS:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Astuty Bt. Amrin (UTM)
Mr. Abdul Rahim Bin Ishak (PROTON)

Ground accelerated corrosion test is used by the automotive manufacturers
to evaluate the corrosion performance of the vehicle. The aim of this
research was to establish a vehicle accelerated corrosion test procedure for
local car manufacturers. It consists of an accelerated laboratory corrosion
test evaluation on the vehicle assemblies and components. The test provided
a combination of cyclic conditions such as salt solution, temperature,
humidity and ambient environment for the acceleration of metallic corrosion.
The research was carried out using a dedicated corrosion test facility that
was designed for the test cycles. Some of the specific work performed
during the study was the design of the corrosion facilities in Test Track,
investigation and evaluation of the corrosion driving cycles, evaluation of
the corrosion domestic target and the development of corrosion exposure
target for Malaysia market.

DEVELOPMENT OF DYNAMICAL RESOURCES PLANNING SYSTEM IN
SHIPBUILDING INDUSTRIES

MASJURAIZI BIN CHE SOH

BOUSTEAD NAVAL SHIPYARD SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Prof. Dr. Siti Mariyam Bt. Shamsuddin (UTM)
Mr. Mohd Rafidi Bin Mohamed (BOUSTEAD)

Planning and managing shipbuilding require a coordination of a wide variety of different resources and
area of responsibilities. The main task of the planning is to create a reliable schedule that can control and
manage a set of activities to a set of resources. The difficult part of the planning and scheduling process is
to balance the priority needed with the resource optimization. In this research, a unique framework of
the dynamical resource planning was proposed for the shipbuilding industries. The new framework
maximizes the resource planning and could be used as a model for future planning. The dynamical
system may relate to the real-time control since a lot of decisions were made based on the current state
of construction. Some of the important elements analyzed were the flow process of the project
information and the planning integration strategy. The framework can be used to direct, control and co-
ordinate a wide variety of different responsibilities and contribute to the project successful.

INFLUENCE OF RELIGIOSITY AND FATALISM ON THE SAFETY BEHAVIOR OF
MUSLIM SHIPYARD WORKERS IN MALAYSIA

MAZLAN BIN ISMAIL

KLIA COLLEGE

SUPERVISORS:
Dr. Mohamad Syazli Bin Fathi (UTM)
Mr. Kamarulzaman Bin Musa (KLIA COLLEGE)

The main aim of this study was to explore the factors that are affecting the safety behavior of
Malaysian offshore workers. Specifically, a rarely used variables namely religiosity and fatalism is
used to study the safety behavior of the offshore workers. Thousands of offshore workers risk their
lives every day, working in an isolated and explosive environment. In such a high-risk industry, safety
is of paramount importance. This led to the study of the behavior of the workers and underpinning
factors that could have contributed to the incidents and accidents. It is interesting to note if religiosity
has any influence on workers safety behavior. So far researchers had studied the relationship
between attitudes, commitment, culture and climate, but rarely on the subject of religiosity of the
workers. Therefore, this study of the effect of workers religiosity on safety behavior is considered new.

AN OPTIMAL TRACTION CONTROL STRATEGY FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV)
WITH FOUR INTEGRATED WHEEL MOTORS

MD RIDZUAN BIN MD YUSOF

PROTON HOLDINGS BERHAD

SUPERVISORS:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nik Rumzi Bin Nik Idris (UTM)

Mr. Abdul Rashid Bin Musa (PROTON)

PROTON has taken a leading role to spur the energy-efficient vehicles (EEVs) initiatives by the
development of Electric Vehicles (EVs). During the PROTON’s development of EV, one of the challenges
was the limited traveling distance that related to the range anxiety by the customers. Therefore, energy
optimization strategy is a significant approach to maximize the travel distance of EV, which may be
crucial such as the possibility of reaching a destination (e.g. battery charging station) before battery
depletion. Moreover, the technology advancement on motors, energy storage, and control system had
provided opportunities for EV development. The present study proposed a Energy Optimization System
(ENOS) by utilizing the optimization algorithm that generates optimal torque values for four in-wheel
motor (IWM) controllers over entire inclination angles based on torque demand, battery’s state of
charge, speed, gradient and road profiles from Global Positioning System for significant energy saving
to extent the EV travelling distance.

OPTIMIZATION OF LIGHT BY USING LIGHT EMITTING DIODE APPLICATION
IN INTERNALLY ILLUMINATED COLUMN PHOTOBIOREACTOR

MOHAMAD TAISIR BIN ABDULLAH

B.M.NAGANO SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Dr. Md. Affendi Bin M. Yusof (UTM)

Mr. Taguri Hiroki (BMS)

There is necessity to develop an efficient method to produce microalgae in large amount and good
quality for various application such as animal feed, aquaculture, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, human
nutrition, pigments, biofuels production and others. Outdoor enclosed Photo Bioreactor (PBR) had been
evolved and accepted as the better way than open pond system especially in term of contamination
control. However, there remain issues on production stability due to environmental conditions,
maintenance and long term reliability. Indoor type PBR may offer better solution towards these issues.
Unfortunately, it is unpopular and left behind due to the perception of huge energy consumption and
cost barrier. This research focused on the optimization of the light parameters of artificial light for high-
density Nannochloropsis sp. cultivation in indoor type PBR. It manipulated the light characteristic of a
light emitting diode (LED) that was used as light source for photosynthetic reaction in an internally
illuminated column PBR. Enhancement in luminaire and PBR design, as well as the optimization of the
inter-related parameters in microalgae growth and lipid production were expected to lead high
efficient microalgae cultivation system.

THERMAL POWER PLANT EMISSION REDUCTION BY COMBUSTION
OPTIMIZATION USING ADAPTIVE CONTROL

MOHAMMAD ZAHARI SUKIMI BIN MAT ZAID

MALAKOFF CORPORATION BERHAD

SUPERVISORS:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mazlan Bin Abdul Wahid (UTM)
Mr. Mohammad Amiruddin Bin Kamaluddin (MALAKOFF)

Calorific value, ash content, volatile matter, sulfur content, Hardgrove Grindability Index (HGI) and
moisture content have a great impact on the combustion process. The main objective of this study was to
increase the combustion efficiency by determining the optimal design including the optimization of coal
blending and operating condition. Specifically, this study identified the process parameters that gave the
largest impact on specific optimization variables and model the relationship between the measured
variables and resulting controlled variables. The study solved the problem in power plant through smart
innovation, efficient and optimized power plant operations. With the optimized combustion process, the
total combustion air was reduced significantly; increased the boiler efficiency and reduced the CO2
emission. The reduction of CO2 emission was in line with the Malaysia’s New Economic Model, which
aimed to lead the regional effort in curbing environmental issues.

DEACTIVATION STRATEGY AND OPTIMIZATION FOR MALAYSIAN URBAN
DRIVING PATTERN

MOHD AZMAN BIN ABAS

PROTON HOLDINGS BERHAD

SUPERVISORS:
Dr. Srithar Rajoo (UTM)
Ir. Azmi Bin Osman (PROTON)

The aim of this research was to improve the fuel consumption during urban driving via strategized
Cylinder Deactivation (CDA). The strategy of the CDA was developed base on the findings from the actual
urban driving conditions. CDA was known and proven to improve the fuel economy between the range 5-
20% at certain driving conditions. CDA was strategized accordingly base on a pre-identified driving
conditions, depending on factors preferred by the manufacturer. In other words, the CDA does not
consistently improve the fuel consumption. CDA must be carefully strategized to maximize the fuel
consumption improvements and not to compromise on the drivability of the vehicle. Hypothetically,
inaccurate deactivation strategy could lead to improvement on fuel economy and the risk of poor vehicle
drivability. With further understanding on the targeted driving conditions, the deactivation could be
accurately strategized and optimized. The study identified the Malaysian urban driving pattern by data
collection analysis through actual vehicles driven in Malaysian urban areas.

DEVELOPMENT OF LOCAL VENDORS FOR MARITIME DEFENCE INDUSTRIES

MOHAMAD FAUZI BIN ABDUL KADIR

BOUSTEAD NAVAL SHIPYARD SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Prof. Dr.Nooh Bin Abu Bakar (UTM)

Mr. Faisal bin Ismail (BOUSTEAD)

The development of local vendors in the maritime defence industries is vital for Malaysia. Currently, there
is no specific comprehensive maritime defence plan to enhance and develop the local vendors,
particularly on the manufacturing and servicing area. For sophisticated and high technology equipment
and systems, Malaysia is depending on the foreign support such as the Original Equipment
Manufacturers (OEM) to equip its Armed Forces, and the Royal Malaysia Navy (RMN). The defence
programmes such as the Technology Transfer, Offset Program, and Localization was not fully
materialized. The local vendors, especially the Bumiputera vendors, does not achieve the standard
required by the industry. Hence, the objective of this research was to explore the challenges and
shortcoming in developing the Bumiputera vendors; determining the importance of having more
Bumiputera vendors in the industry, and propose a framework for the development of vendors for the
maritime defence industry.

ASSESSMENT OF CLEAN ROOM METHOD IN PAINTING BOOTH SYSTEM
IN AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

MUHAMMAD HAFIZAN BIN YOSRI

COMBAT COATING (M) SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Dr. Nozomu Hamada (UTM)
Mr. Lee Aik Hong (COMBAT)

The highest rejection for almost all painting line in the automotive industry is contributed by the dust and
fiber. A clean room environment to control dust and fiber can be adopted into painting line in the
automotive industry. The aim of this research was to assess the clean room method to reduce the dust
particle in the painting line, reduce the scrap part due to rework process and increase production planning
and line efficiency at the same time reduce the overtime cost to make recovery stock for reject part. The
research was carried out using the 7 Quality Control Tools for monitoring trend and feedback and clean
room standard and technology. Results showed that product pass rate was high (≥ 95%) and the rejection
contributed by dust and fiber was low (≤ 3%). In addition, the method also assisted in reducing the scrap
part by less than 5%. It also enhanced the painting line cleanliness by reducing the dust particle in the paint
booth environment and minimizes parts work in progress (WIP).

IDENTIFICATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF CRITICAL CRITERIA FOR WATER
ASSET MANAGEMENT

MOHD HAZLEY BIN HALIM

PENGURUSAN ASET AIR BERHAD

SUPERVISORS:
Prof. Dr. Miswan @ Abdul Hakim Bin Mohammed (UTM)

Dato' Ahmad Faizal Bin Abdul Rahman (PAAB)

The water supply infrastructure in Malaysia is progressing well for the past 50 years.
Lately, the sector facing some problems due to their aging assets. Massive financial
funding is required to expand and rehabilitate the water supply system in Malaysia.
Accordingly, there is a need to come out with a best management practice and skills
to ensure sustainable service with the lowest life cycle cost. Without a proper Asset
Management (AM) practice, there will be no clear knowledge of the condition of the
assets and their performance. Moreover, this may often lead to replacing the asset
prematurely, which is expensive in the long run. The aim of this research was to
address this issues as well as to identify and develop critical criteria for the water
asset management. The Total Asset Management System (TAMS) was used to ensure
that the assets are operated and maintained by all the service licensees in a
sustainable and cost-effective manner.

DEVELOPMENT OF PROJECT QUALITY MANAGEMENT MODEL FOR
PROJECT’S OWNER DURING FRONT-END ENGINEERING AND PRE-

CONSTRUCTION STAGE

MOHD LATIFF BIN AHMAD

PETRONAS CARIGALI SDN BHD

SUPERVISORS:
Prof. Dr. Ir.Sha'ri Mohd Yusof (UTM)
Mr. Abdul Rahim Bin Abdul Hamid (PETRONAS CARIGALI)

Lack of understanding on the quality definition, application and its multi-functional
interactions in project delivery may lead to misunderstanding, unplanned intervention and
damage control during the execution stage. The absence or poor quality planning by the
project’s owner during the front-end is the major contributor to a poor project delivery and
conformance to the project requirements and specifications. When an organization becomes
larger and complex, its capability and resource constraint is a major concern, and it is vital to
find a quick solution. As a result, the aim of this research was to develop a front-end project
quality management model during a project execution stage. The second objective was to
establish an optimal resources framework for the established front-end project quality
management model. This study focused on the capital projects related to gas production and
monetization executed in Malaysia.

COMPUTATIONAL FLUID DYNAMICS ANALYSIS OF FLOW BEHAVIOR IN
THE ELECTROLESS NICKEL PLATING PROCESS TANK FOR HARD DISK DRIVE

MANUFACTURING

MOHD OMAR MUKHTAR BIN ZAINUL AZMI

SEAGATE

SUPERVISORS:
Asoc. Prof. Dr. Nor Azwadi Bin Che Sidik (UTM)

Mr. Mohd Arobi Bin Awang (SEAGATE)

The aim of this research was to establish a design criteria for a unique Hybrid Sparger. For this purpose,
a computational fluid dynamic analysis of flow behavior in the electroless nickel plating was carried out.
Three main Key Performance Output Variables (KPOV) were identified and analyzed; the coating
thickness, substrate yield and the coating surface performance (against acid). The Hybrid Sparger was
successfully propagated to all three plating lines (32 tanks) while a study in progress for plating line 4.
Preliminary results showed an encouraging performance of the new Hybrid Sparger. Among the gains
were the substrate yield increment by 2%, equating to a $4.4 million savings per year and a Media yields
improvement by 1%, a saving of $7.4 million per year. A comparison with a previous design was also
investigated in this study.