h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile012-247 [email protected]; [email protected] Norhidayah Binti MohamedNatural ProductsHerbal extraction, medicinal chemistry, chromatography,essential oilChM. Dr. Aini Norhidayah MohamedOur group’s research focuses on naturalproduct chemistry, particularly in theisolation, characterization, and application ofbioactive compounds from botanical andother natural sources. Our work involvesextraction techniques, chemical profiling(including GC-MS analysis), andmorphological assessments to identify andevaluate the potential of natural substancesfor various applications. With a stronginterest in phytochemistry and sustainableingredient development, our researchexplores how natural products can beoptimized for use in cosmetics, fragrances,and personal care formulations, contributingto the development of value-added naturalingredients.In addition to chemical characterization, ourresearch extends to preservation techniques,formulation stability, and bioactivity studies,ensuring that natural compounds retain theirefficacy and functionality over time. We areparticularly interested in the integration oftraditional knowledge with modern scientificapproaches, aiming to bridge the gapbetween raw natural materials andcommercially viable products.Research outline“Monitor the unseen to protect the future”Current Topics and Future Trends inPatchouli (Pogostemon cablin) Research: AComprehensive Bibliometric Study\".(2024). Natural Product Research. AiniNorhidayah Mohamed, Aisyah OmarEvaluation of Antimicrobial and CytotoxicProperties of Saponins from NephelliumLappaceum L. (Rambutan) Leaf Extracts\"(2024). AIP Proceeding. Aini NorhidayahMohamed, Yasmin Amirah.Surface-active Properties of ExtractedSaponin from the Leaves of NepheliumLappaceum. Current Science andTechnology. (2021). Aini NorhidayahMohamed, Nurul Jannah Janurin. YasminAmirah.Key publicationsOur work aligns with the broader goal ofenhancing the local natural product industry,supporting the sustainable development ofbotanical resources while maintainingscientific rigor in product innovation.\"Intercalation chemistry of inorganiclayered compounds\"
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile012-575 [email protected]; [email protected] ADILA MHD OMARBiotechnology, Nutrition and Health, Natural products,Inflammation, In-vitro and In-vivo modelBiotechnology, inflammation, natural products, gut microbiota,dietary sweeteners, metabolic health, in-vivo models,functional foodsDr. Nor Adila Mhd OmarDr. Nor Adila Mhd Omar’s research focuseson leveraging the power of biotechnology toaddress critical health challenges, particularlyin the fields of nutrition, inflammation, andmetabolic disorders. Her research philosophyis rooted in the idea of utilizing naturalresources and scientific advancements todevelop innovative and sustainable solutionsfor improving human health and well-being.Her work delves deeply into understandingthe effects of dietary components,specifically nutritive and non-nutritivesweeteners, on inflammation, gut microbiotacomposition, and metabolic health markers.Using robust in vivo models, she investigatesthe complex interplay between dietarysugars, artificial sweeteners, and their impacton health outcomes, with a special focus onhow these elements influence chronicinflammation and gut health, a cornerstoneof metabolic and immune system regulation.Furthermore, Dr. Adila explores thetherapeutic potential of plant-derivedbioactives and functional foods. Her researchaims to identify bioactive compounds withanti-inflammatory properties and evaluatetheir efficacy in mitigating disease-relatedpathways.Research outline“Innovating Health Through Biotechnology”Phenolic Content and AntioxidantCapacities at Different Stages of BeranganBanana Ripening. Surinawati Shahdan,Nuria Majaliwa, Frida Nyamete, Nor AdilaMhd Omar*. Journal of Biochemistry,Microbiology and Biotechnology, 12(2), 44-49, 2024.Liquid Tempeh Wastewater and EM4: ACombined Approach to Enhance ChilliSeed Germination. Khairiah Mohd Mokhtar,Wan Norfazilah Wan Ismail, Nurul HudaAbu Bakar, Nor Adila Mhd Omar*. Journalof Environmental Microbiology andToxicology, 12(2), 19-24, 2024.Effect of a Diet Rich in Galactose orFructose, With or WithoutFructooligosaccharides, on Gut MicrobiotaComposition in Rats. NA Mhd Omar*, JDicksved, J Kruger, G Zamaratskaia, KMichaëlsson, et al. Frontiers in Nutrition,2022.Effects of High Intakes of Fructose andGalactose, With or Without AddedFructooligosaccharides, on MetabolicFactors, Inflammation, and Gut Integrity ina Rat Model. NA Mhd Omar*, J Frank, JKruger, F Dal Bello, C Medana, M Collino, etal. Molecular Nutrition & Food Research,65(6), 2001133, 2021.Key publicationsThis work aligns with her goal of advancingscientific understanding and fostering thedevelopment of health-promotinginterventions that are both accessible andsustainable.With a multidisciplinary approach, Dr. Adilabridges the gaps between biotechnology,nutrition, and health sciences. Her researchnot only generates critical insights foracademic advancement but also provides afoundation for evidence-basedrecommendations, dietary guidelines, andregulatory policies that promote healthierlifestyles and communities.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile019-699 [email protected] binti JamekEnzyme Technology, Structural Bioinformatics & MolecularModellingFood microbiomes, metagenomics, probioticDr. Shariza JamekTraditional fermented foods play significantroles in food security, socio-economicgrowth, and nutrition, while also promotingconsumer health. These foods often exhibitimproved properties compared to their rawingredients due to microbial metaboliteproduction, allergen removal, desirablebiological activities, and the presence ofbeneficial microbes. Despite theseadvantages, the mechanisms by whichmicrobes in fermented foods contribute tohealth benefits remain poorly understood.To better harness these beneficial traits, it isessential to develop a comprehensiveunderstanding of the composition andfunctionality of the microbiota in fermentedfoods. Further studies can provide valuableinsights into microbial communities,enhancing our understanding of themicrobiology underlying these foods.Advanced analysis, particularly throughmetagenomics approaches, offers a powerfulResearch outline“Curiosity fuels learning, unlocking endless possibilities”Rumaizi, S.M.A., Jamek, S.B.*, Ramli, N., HimN.R.N. Sueb, M.S.M., Arshad, Z.I.M.K. ,Diversity in the traditional fermented foodsof Malaysia & their potential as probioticsource (2022), Malaysian Journal ofBiochemistry & Molecular Biology: 64-77Tan, L.S., Sueb, M.S.M., Chua, G.K., Shaarani,S.H.N., Jamek, S.B., Screening ofmicroorganisms from pineapple waste forFOS production (2020), IOP ConferenceSeries: Materials Science & Engineering,991(1), 012056Key publicationstool for this purpose.Our project aims to investigate the microbialcomposition, diversity, and functionalpotential (including antimicrobial resistance,carbohydrate-degrading abilities, and healthassociated gene clusters) across differentsubstrates—plant-based and animalbased/brine and fermentation types (starterculture and spontaneous fermentation). Theresearch methodology involves collectingsamples of selected Malaysian fermentedfoods, performing high-throughputsequencing, and analyzing the functionalprofiles of their microbiomes. Functionalanalysis will include antimicrobial resistanceassessment, bacteriocin assignment, andmetabolic potential evaluation by aligningsequencing data with related databases.The findings could uncover novel insightsinto the functional potential of these foodmicrobiomes, particularly health-associatedgene clusters, which may have applicationsin industrial processes and health promotion.This study will provide a deeperunderstanding of the prospects andopportunities offered by Malaysianfermented foods in health and industrialapplications.\"Fermented foods has been seen as asustainable approach for optimizing theutilization of the bioresources inaddressing the food security issue.\"
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile09-431 [email protected]; [email protected] Mahfuz GazaliImmunology, microbiology, diabetesHuman immunology, type 1 diabetes, antibodies, T cells, shrimpDr. Ahmad Mahfuz GazaliOur group emphasises investigating theepidemiology and immunology of MalaysianType 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) patients.Most, if not all, knowledge of the disease wasderived from Caucasian populations in theUSA, Europe, and Australia. Given thatMalaysia is a multi-ethnic populationcomprised of Malay, Chinese, Indians andother Aboriginals, it is vital to study thedisease from a Malaysian perspective. Hence,my focus is to investigate the epidemiologyand immunology of Malaysian T1DM patients.Epidemiology is the study of thedeterminants, occurrence and distribution ofhealth and disease in a defined population.Our research focuses on determining theincidence and prevalence of T1DM inMalaysia. Furthermore, we want to ascertainthe environmental factors that maycontribute to the development of T1DM inMalaysia.Furthermore, we focus our research toinvestigate the immunology of MalaysianT1DM patients. Components of the immunesystem could be generally divided intoimmune cells such as T and B cells,Research outlineN. Mohamed Nor, H. Mahayidin, A.M. Gazaliand M. Arip, An updated review of type 1diabetes in Malaysia. IIUM Medical JournalMalaysia 21(3), 15-24 (2022).A.M. Gazali, A.M. Schroderus, K. NantoSalonen, R. Rintamaki, M. Knip, R. Veijola, J.Toppari, J. Ilonen and T. Kinnunen,Mucosal-associated invariant T cellalterations during the development ofhuman type 1 diabetes. Diabetologia 63,2396-2409 (2020).Key publicationsmonocytes, natural killer cells, and others,soluble mediators such as cytokines,chemokines, antibodies, and others; geneticsrefers to heritable traits from parents sincethe disease has a strong genetic influence,especially from immune-related genes. Toachieve our research objectives, wecollaborate actively with universities such asUniversiti Malaya, Universiti Putra Malaysia,International Islamic University Malaysia,government agencies (Institute of MedicalResearch) and industry (Patriot Biotech SdnBhd). In conclusion, we plan to completestudying the epidemiology and immunologyof T1DM in Malaysia.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile013-227 [email protected]; shoriyamanaf@gmail57219118702Shoriya Aruni Abdul ManafBiotechnology, NanotechnologyEnzyme, Fermentation, Bioreactor, Bioprocess, Cellimmobilization, Sugar, Carbon NanomaterialDr. Shoriya Aruni Abdul ManafThe field of carbon nanomaterials derivedfrom agricultural waste is evolving rapidly,with new trends emerging that focus onimproving sustainability, efficiency, andapplication versatility. Enhancedcharacterization methods, such as highresolution transmission electron microscopy(HR-TEM) and Raman spectroscopy, arebeing used to gain deeper insights into thestructure and properties of carbonnanomaterials. Development of standardizedprotocols for the synthesis and testing ofcarbon nanomaterials ensures consistencyand reproducibility in their production fromagricultural waste.Researchers are also focusing on thefunctionalization of carbon nanomaterialsderived from agricultural waste to enhancetheir properties for specific applications,such as improved conductivity forelectronics or enhanced adsorption forenvironmental remediation. Expanding therange of applications, including energystorage (e.g., supercapacitors and batteries),sensors, and drug delivery systems, is agrowing trend. This involves developingcarbon nanomaterials with specificproperties tailored to these applications.Research outline“Knowledge never disappears as long as you keep searching”Abdul Manaf SA, Mohamad Fuzi SFZ, LowKO, Hegde G, Abdul Manas NH, Md Illias R,Chia KS. Carbon nanomaterial propertieshelp to enhance xylanase production fromrecombinant Kluyveromyces lactis througha cell immobilization method. ApplMicrobiol Biotechnol. 2021 Nov;105(21-22):8531-8544.Key publicationsCarbon nanomaterials are also found to beinteresting in the fermentation field.Microbial cell immobilization allows moreefficient up-scaling by reducing the nonproductive growth phase, improving productyield and simplifying product separation.Furthermore, the emergence ofnanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes,graphene, and metal-based nanomaterialswith excellent functional properties providesnovel support for cell immobilization.Nanomaterials have catalytic properties thatcan provide specific binding sites withtargeted cells.“The emergence of nanomaterials in everyresearch area”
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile+6017-790 [email protected]; [email protected] Azwan JenolEnzyme Technology; Bioproducts; Fermentation TechnologyBioactive compounds, Bromelain, Enzymes production andextraction, Biofuels and Bioenergy, Bioproducts developmentDr. Mohd Azwan JenolMy research focuses on the development ofbioproducts, particularly enzymes andbioactive compounds, through innovativeextraction and production methods.Emphasizing the utilization of agriculturalbiomass, I aim to explore sustainable andeconomically viable approaches forbioproduct development. This involvesinvestigating various extraction techniquesand optimizing production processes toenhance the yield and quality of bioproducts.By leveraging agricultural residues and byproducts, my work contributes to thesustainable management of biomassresources and adds value to agriculturalsupply chains.A significant aspect of my research is theexploration of novel biotechnologicalmethods for enzyme production. Enzymes,as biocatalysts, play a crucial role in variousindustries, including food, pharmaceuticals,and biofuels. My work involves identifyingpotent enzyme sources from agriculturalbiomass and developing efficient extractionand purification methods. By optimizing theproduction conditions, I aim to achievehigher enzyme activity and stability, whichResearch outline“Acquire knowledge and impart it to the people”Jenol, M.A., Chu, P.H., Ramle, I.K., Joyce,L.J.W., Lai-Yee, P., Ibrahim, M.F., Alitheen,N.B., Osman, M.A., Abd Gani, S. and AbdAziz, S., 2024. Feasibility of agriculturalbiomass in Southeast Asia for enzymesproduction. Renewable and SustainableEnergy Reviews, 200, p.114601.Jenol, M.A., Hussin, Y., Chu, P.H., Abd‐Aziz,S. and Alitheen, N.B., 2024. Antioxidantsfrom Agricultural Wastes and theirPotential Applications. ChemicalSubstitutes from Agricultural and IndustrialBy‐Products: Bioconversion, Bioprocessing,and Biorefining, pp.19-38.Key publicationscan lead to more cost-effective industrialapplications. Additionally, I explore thepotential of these enzymes inbiotransformation processes, contributing togreener and more sustainable industrialpractices. Moreover, my research extends tothe extraction and characterization ofbioactive compounds from agriculturalbiomass. These compounds possesssignificant health benefits and haveapplications in the nutraceutical andpharmaceutical industries.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile017-764 [email protected]; [email protected] binti Mohd MarsinFood Technology, Bioprocess EngineeringFood packaging, Edible film, Starch, Carrageenan, FoodPreservation Technology, Biopolymer, Essential oil, Foodprocessing.Dr. Aishah Mohd MarsinDr. Aishah is a dedicated academic with astrong foundation in both BioprocessEngineering and Food Technology. A Ph.D.graduate from the Faculty of Chemical andEnergy Engineering at Universiti TeknologiMalaysia (UTM), Dr. Aishah has specialized inBioprocess Engineering, with a focus on thedevelopment of functional packaging filmsand the application of biotechnologicalprinciples in food safety and preservation.With a Bachelor of Technology in FoodTechnology from Universiti Sains Malaysia(USM), Dr. Aishah has developed a deepunderstanding of food science, furtherenhanced by advanced studies culminatingin a Master’s degree and a Doctor ofPhilosophy in Bioprocess Engineering fromUTM. Their Master’s research, titled\"Formulation and Functional Properties ofPurple Sweet Potato Based Edible Film,\"explored the innovative use of naturalingredients in creating sustainable, ediblepackaging materials, demonstrating theircommitment to integrating environmentalsustainability with food technology.Dr. Aishah’s Ph.D. project,\"Thymol IncorpoResearch outline“Be prepared to be unprepared”Aishah Mohd Marsin, Ida Idayu Muhamad,Siti nor Syairah Anis, Liew Wen Ching,Noer Hartini Dolhaji and Nurul Asmak MdLazim (2024). The Application andChallenges of Essential Oils as NaturalPesticides. Journal of Soil, Environment &Agroecology 2, Issue 1, 1-14.Aishah Mohd Marsin and Ida IdayuMuhamad (2023). Effectiveness of insectrepellent food packaging filmincorporating thymol against rice weevil,Sitophylus oryzae. Current Science, 123 (5),551-556.Key publicationsrated Insect-Repellent Functional PackagingFilm with Carrageenan-Based Oxygen ColourIndicator Strip,\" represents a significantcontribution to the field of bioprocessengineering. This research focused on thedevelopment of multifunctional packagingthat not only preserves food but also repelsinsects and provides real-time informationabout the oxygen presence within thepackaging. This work reflects theirdedication to advancing food safety andextending shelf life through innovativebiotechnological solutions.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile012-233 [email protected]; [email protected]. Rahim Mohd-HairulPlant Molecular Biology & BioinformaticsOrchids, medicinal plants, fragrance, terpenoid pathway,homology modelling, molecular dockingMohd Hairul Ab. RahimOur group emphasizes the identification ofthe fragrance compounds from fragrantorchids and medicinal herbs using GasChromatography Mass Spectrometry (GCMS). We constructed transcriptome librariesfrom the identified fragrance compoundsand sequenced them using the Illumina NGSplatform. Fragrance-related transcripts areidentified from its transcriptome library andselected for translation to their respectiveamino acids. The amino acid sequences arefurther subjected to homology modeling topredict the 3D structure of the fragrancerelated proteins.Molecular docking with the respectivesubstrates, products, and ligands is furtherapplied to the 3D structure of the fragrancerelated proteins. The knowledge of thefragrance-related transcripts and thefragrance compounds stored in the flower orleaves of fragrant orchids and medicinalherbs can be used to assist in the selectionof seed or pollen parent in the hybridizationprogram to produce new hybrids withfragrance as their value-added characteristicfor the floriculture industry, and to boosttheir commercial values as cut flowers orResearch outlineA.R. Mohd-Hairul, J.O. Abdullah, A.A. Song,H. L. Foo, P. Namasivayam, R.A. Rahim,Vandachostylis ‘Sri-Siam’: an intergenerichybrid with superior qualities as evidencedby its biochemical fragrance andtranscriptome profiles. Journal of PlantBiochemistry and Biotechnology 31 (4),965-968 (2022).A.R. Mohd-Hairul, J. O. Abdullah, A.A. Song,H.L. Foo, P. Namasivayam, R.A. Rahim,Volatile constituents and floraltranscriptome analyses provide newinsights into fragrance biosynthesis ofVanda ‘Tan Chay Yan’. Plant Biosystems 56(1), 16-23 (2022).NS Ashaari, NE Mohamad, AH Afzinizam,MH Ab. Rahim, KS Lai, Abdullah, J.O.,Chemical Composition of HexaneExtracted Plectranthus amboinicus LeafEssential Oil: Maximizing Contents onHarvested Plant Materials. AppliedSciences 11 (22), 10838 (2021).Key publicationspotted plants in the horticultural industry.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile019-499 [email protected]; [email protected] virology, Virus detection methods, Phytochemicalanalysis, Cancer cell biologyNewcastle Disease Virus, PapillomavirusTs. Muhammad Adam Lee AbdullahOur research is a multidisciplinary whichintegrates virology, cancer biology,molecular genetics, and natural productresearch. The research focuses ondeveloping innovative detection methods formicrobes especially viruses, understandingthe molecular mechanisms underlying cancercell adhesion and motility, exploring viralgenome evolution, and investigating thebioactive properties of plant-derivedcompounds. His contributions span bothfundamental and applied sciences, providingvaluable insights into disease mechanismsand potential therapeutic applications.Overview of Detection Methods forMicrobesDetection of microbial pathogens, includingbacteria, fungi, and viruses, is a crucialaspect of disease diagnosis andepidemiological studies. We have employedvarious molecular, immunological, andbiochemical methods for microbial detection:Molecular TechniquesImmunological AssaysPhage-Based AssaysCultured-Based MethodsBiosensors and NanotechnologyResearch outline“Innovating Science, Advancing Health”Detection of Virulent Newcastle DiseaseVirus Using a Phage-Capturing Dot BlotAssay (Journal of Virological Methods,2006)CUB Domain Containing Protein 1 (CDCP1)Modulates Adhesion and Motility in ColonCancer Cells (BMC Cancer, 2014)The Putative Roles and Functions of Indel,Repetition, and Duplication Events inAlphavirus Non-Structural Protein 3Hypervariable Domain (nsP3 HVD)(Viruses, 2021)Key publicationsThese diverse detection methods enhanceour ability to monitor infectious diseases,develop targeted treatments, and preventoutbreaks through timely interventions. Ourresearch primarily focuses on thedevelopment of novel detection methods forviruses, elucidating the molecularmechanisms of cancer cell adhesion andmotility, studying viral genome evolution,and identifying bioactive compounds fromplant sources.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher ProfileAssoc. Prof. Dr. Abdul AzizMohd Azoddein“Engineering Safer Waters: Expertise in Heavy Metal Removal and Biotreatment”019-915 [email protected] Aziz Bin Abd AzoddeinWastewater treatment, mercury and heavy metal removal,membrane technolgy, bioremediation, hazardaus wastemanagementWastewater technology, mercury, harzardaus waste,bioremediation, membrane technologyResearch outline Key publicationsMercury Removal & MercuryProfiling in WastewaterHave done multiple studies onusing Pseudomonas putida toremove mercury frompetroleum‑based industrialwastewater, including studies onenzyme activity (mercuricreductase), growth patternunder different mercuryconcentrations, optimumconditions for removal.BioremediationUsing microbes to remove toxicheavy metals (especiallymercury), applying bioreactors,membrane bioreactors,optimizing biological removal.Membrane Bioreactor TechnologyFor treatment of highly pollutedeffluents (e.g. petroleum‑basedwastewater, palm oil milleffluent).Hybrid Treatment ProcessesCombining bioremediation withother physical or chemicalmeans (e.g. membrane filtration,activated carbon,electrocoagulation) forenhanced removal of pollutantsincluding mercury.Analytical / EnzymaticCharacterizationPurifying and characterizingenzymes involved in mercuryreduction (e.g. mercuricreductase), studying growthconditions, reaction kinetics etc.NA Mohammad Basir, AAMohdAzoddein, AH Abdul Razik, NAAAzman, 2020, Removal of Ferum ionsfrom Acid Drainage wastewater usingJar Test Technique: Factorial Designanalysis, IOP Conference Series:materials Scaience and Engineering,Vol.991(1), 012096.MC Mamat, AAM Azoddein, ABBustary, 2020, Oxidation of SulfideRemoval from 0petroleum refinerywastewater by using hydrogenperoxide, 2020, IOP ConferenceSeries: Materials Science andEngneering, Vol.736(2), 022103.FAM Azli, AAM Azoddein, 2020,Removal of Chemical OxygenDemand and Total Suspended Solid(TSS) using ElectrocoagulationProcess for Treatment ofOleochemical Wastewater, IOPConference Series: Matrials Scienceand Engineering, Vol. 736(2), 022104.Faten Ahada Mohd Azli, Abdul AzizMohdAzoddein, Mazrul Nizam Seman,Agus Sahar Abdul Hamid, tahfiztajuddin, said Nurdin, 2020,Treatment of Petroleum-BasedIndustrial Wastewater usingElectrocoagulation Technology,Advanced in Waste ProcessingTechnology, 49-59, Springer,Singapore. (Book Chapter)
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher [email protected]; [email protected] fadzil mohd idrisDelphi Techniques, Policy Studies, Social and EngineeringSciences, Housing and Planning, Tertiary Education, PointScheme, Fire Safety and Management, Building Maintenanceand Services, Leadership, Human FactorFire Safety, Point Scheme. Decision making, Policy Development,Building Services and Maintenance, Housing and Education“Protect Every Soul from Danger of Fire”Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd FadzilMohd Idris
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile6016-219 [email protected]; [email protected] AbdullOccupational Safety, Health and EnvironmentIndustrial Hygiene, Air Quality, Traffic Emission, EnvironmentalScience, Environmental and Health Risk Assessment,Occupational Safety and HealthDr. Norhidayah AbdullDr. Norhidayah encompasses a broadspectrum of environmental and occupationalsafety and health topics. She has a particularinterest in air pollution modelling, focusingon the assessment of exposure and healthrisks associated with various environmentaland occupational hazards. Dr Norhidayahwork is instrumental in advancing ourunderstanding of the interplay betweenenvironmental factors and occupationalsafety health, contributing to thedevelopment of strategies to mitigate healthrisks in industrial and environments.Research outline“You are never too old to learn”Indoor Air Quality Level in Mass RapidTransit (MRT) Train in Malaysia (2025).Occurrence, characterization, andtransport mechanism of welding fumesparticles emitted during the weldingprocess (2024).Occurrence and characteristic ofmicroplastics in suspended particulate, acase study in street of Yogyakarta (2024).Key publications The Malaysia Roadmap Towards Zero SingleUse Plastics 2018–2030, introduced by theMinistry of Energy, Science, Technology,Environment, and Climate Change(MESTECC), aims to phase out single-useplastics and promote biodegradablealternatives. While this policy focusesprimarily on plastic waste in theenvironment, the presence of airborne MPs inindoor and outdoor environment suggeststhat plastic pollution is not just an outdoorenvironmental issue but also a public health\"Microplastics (MPs) in the Air WeBreathe”concern in indoor spaces. This studyreinforces the need for stricter regulationson plastic use and disposal, as even wellmanaged indoor and outdoor environmentsare not immune to MP contamination. Thiswork explores the occurrence of airbornemicroplastics via an active sampling of stageimpactor. The filtered air samples isphysically characterized in terms of colour,morphology, shape, morphology, size as wellas chemical characterization such as polymertype and monomer type. The exposure risk isestimated via the human health riskassessment which integrate with theprobabilistic analysis.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile+6019-988 [email protected]; [email protected] Response, Process Safety, Safety Culture,Investment in OSH, Human Error Analysis, Risk Assessmentemergency, process safety, safety culture, cost and benefitanalysis (CBA)Ts. Dr. Azizan RamliEmergency response is a fundamental aspectof Occupational Safety and Health (OSH)that focuses on minimizing the impact ofunexpected incidents or disasters. Itencompasses well-structured plans,preparation, and rapid execution of actionsto safeguard lives, protect property, andpreserve the environment. Effectiveemergency response relies on a clearunderstanding of potential hazards and theimplementation of robust procedures,ensuring that organizations can respondswiftly and effectively during crises. Thisproactive approach is essential for limitingdamage and maintaining operational stabilityin challenging situations.Closely related to emergency response isprocess safety, which centers on identifyingand managing risks associated withhazardous substances and complex industrialprocesses. The goal of process safety is toprevent catastrophic events such aschemical leaks, explosions, or fires byimplementing stringent safety measures. Aneffective process safety framework requiresa strong safety culture, where employees atall levels share a commitment to safety,Research outline“The more you know, the less you speak”SN Ismail, A Ramli*. Investigate the factorsaffecting safety culture in the MalaysiaMining industry. Resources Policy, 2023,85, 103930SN Ismail, A Ramli*, AA Hanida, 2021.Research Trends in Mining AccidentsStudy: A Systematic Literature Review.Safety Science 143:105438SN Ismail, A Ramli*, AA Hanida, 2021.Influencing factors on safety culture inmining industry: A systematic literaturereview approach. Resources Policy, Vol. 74:102250Key publicationsadhere to best practices, and activelyparticipate in maintaining a secure workenvironment. A robust safety cultureensures that potential risks are addressedproactively and that safety remains a priorityin day-to-day operations.Investment in OSH initiatives is critical tofostering a strong safety culture andenhancing the effectiveness of emergencyresponse and process safety measures.Continuous investment in training, advancedtechnologies, and safety infrastructure helpsto reduce the likelihood of human errors,which are often the root cause of workplaceincidents.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile017-961 [email protected]; [email protected] Abdul AzizProcess Safety, Risk Assessment, Chemical Safety andSecurity, Safety and DigitalizationProcess Safety Management, New and Emerging Risk (NER),PSM system, Chemical Safety, Chemical Security, e-HIRARC,Accident Analysis ToolsTs. Dr. Hanida Abdul AzizOur group emphasizes systematicframework, model and system to implementPSM, new and emerging risk at workplace,chemical safety and security, accidentinvestigation program for safe workplace.Research outline“You are never too old to learn”Nur Fauzana Raihani Fouzi, Hanida AbdulAziz*, Norwahida Yaakub (2024),Systematic Review of Chemical Safety andChemical Security Risk ManagementApproach. Proses Safety andEnvironmental Protection, 183, pg. 676-686.Amiruddin Abu Bakar and Hanida AbdulAziz* (2024), Development of pre-startupsafety review implementation tool for safeoperation in process plant. Process SafetyProgress, pg. 1-7Nurul Atiqah Azmi, Hanida Abdul Aziz*,Syamsul Bahari Abdullah, Norhuda AbdulManaf and Tan Lian See (2024), Evaluationof risk associated with treatment of fat, oil,and grease: Grease interceptor from foodprocessing industry effluent using bowtieanalysis. Process Safety Progress, pg. 1-8Key publicationsAn unplanned change may lead to theemergence of new hazards which eventuallylead towards severe impact on human,property, environment and businessreputation. Management of Change (MOC)with integrated risk analysis is an importantProcess Safety Management (PSM) elementsinvolving planning and controlling risks andhazards that come with the proposedchange. MOC management system (MOCMS)which act as a guidance and documentationinventory tool. The system is beneficial toindustries to manage underlying risks in atemporary and emergency change whichease the tracking of MOC case inventory toimprove risk controls in changes.Risk Based Process Safety (RBPS) guidelineobjective is to help the petrochemicalindustries to comply with Process SafetyManagement (PSM) standard. Outdated,scatted, and inaccessible process knowledgehave been identified as significant causalfactors of major accidents. Changing ProcessKnowledge Management (PKM) data canaffect other elements, and changes in other“Management of Change System withIntegrated Risk Analysis for Temporaryand Emergency Cases”elements also affect the reliability andaccuracy of PKM elements. The shortcomingof study regarding PKM elementinterrelationship with other 19 Risk BasedProcess Safety (RBPS) has hindered theeffectiveness of RBPS program. PKMS wasdeveloped using System Development LifeCycle (SDLC) approach.\"Process Knowledge Management System(PKMS)\"
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile017-935 [email protected]; [email protected] Shahril Abu HanifahFatigue, Sleepiness, Shift Work, Psychosocial Hazard, SafetyCulture, StressPsychological hazards, occupational health, osh management,risk managementDr. Mohd Shahril Abu HanifahThe research begins with an introduction tothe issue of fatigue in shift workenvironments, emphasizing its impact onhealth, safety, and productivity in theelectronics sector. A comprehensiveliterature review follows, exploring theimplications of fatigue, existing interventions,and research gaps that necessitate thisstudy. The methodology section outlines apre-and post-intervention design, detailingparticipant selection criteria, thecomponents of the awareness program, andtools for data collection, including fatigueassessment questionnaires and sleep qualityscales. The results highlight significantreductions in fatigue levels, improvements insleep patterns, and increased awarenessamong workers after the intervention,supported by statistical analyses. Thediscussion interprets these findings,underscoring the effectiveness of theprogram and its implications for workplacefatigue management.Research outline“In three words I can sum up everything I’ve learned about life: It goes on”Abu Hanifah, M. S., & Ismail, N. (2020).Fatigue and its associated risk factors: asurvey of electronics manufacturing shiftworkers in Malaysia, Fatigue: Biomedicine,Health & Behavior, 8(1), 49-59.2. Abu Hanifah, M. S., Abdul Jalil, M. E., &Ismail, N. (2020). Sleepiness and dailysleep of Malaysian shift workers in theelectronics manufacturing industry,Malaysian Journal of Public HealthMedicine, 20(Special 1), 208-215.Key publications\"Fatigue and its associated risk factors: asurvey of electronics manufacturing shiftworkers in Malaysia\"The study emphasizing the need forregional-specific research on fatigue issues.The objectives focus on assessing fatiguelevels and identifying associated risk factors.A literature review highlights the causes andimpacts of fatigue, such as reduced health,safety, and productivity, while identifyingknowledge gaps in existing studies. Themethodology employs a cross-sectionalsurvey design, targeting shift workers inelectronics manufacturing. Data collectioninvolves validated fatigue assessment toolsand questionnaires addressing risk factorslike work hours, sleep patterns, lifestyle, andworkplace conditions.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile019-992 [email protected]; [email protected] suria suhaimiOccupational Safety, Fire Safety, OSHMS, EnvironmentalHealthoccupational hazard, risk, safety, fire, industry, workersDr. Nurud Suria SuhaimiDr. Nurud Suria Suhaimi is a dedicatedresearcher and academic at the Faculty ofIndustrial Sciences and Technology, UniversitiMalaysia Pahang Al Sultan Abdullah. With astrong foundation in safety, health, andenvironmental sciences, her work bridgescritical areas in occupational safety,environmental sustainability, and fire safetytechnology. Her multidisciplinary expertise isexemplified by her contributions to academia,innovation, and industry collaborations.Our team expertise spans several criticaldomains, including:Fire and Building Safety: Our teamleverages advanced simulation tools suchas the Fire Dynamic Simulator (FDS) tomodel and analyze fire scenarios incomplex structures. The work focuses onenhancing building safety standards byevaluating fire dynamics, smoke behavior,and the effectiveness of fire suppressionsystems. She also collaborates ondeveloping predictive models to mitigaterisks in high-occupancy buildings.Occupational Safety and Health (OSH):With a strong emphasis on hazardrecognition and risk management, ourteam contributes to the development ofcomprehensive OSH management systems.The research explores practical strategiesfor workplace safety, including ergonomics,safety audits, and compliance withlegislative standards. Our team alsoactively works on enhancing safety culturethrough education and behaviouralinterventions.Environmental Safety: Our team conductscutting-edge research on environmentalsafety, focusing on water quality,wastewater treatment technologies, andpollution control. The studies includedeveloping innovative methods for treatingindustrial effluents and exploring theimpact of environmental contaminants onhuman health and ecosystems. Our teamalso contributed to the development ofnanofiltration membranes for effectivewastewater treatment.Research outline“Empowering safety and sustainability through innovation, knowledge, and resilience”Norsaffarina, Aziz and Mohammad Adam,Adman and Nurud Suria, Suhaimi andSyarifuddin, Misbari and Ahmad Rizal, Aliasand Azrina, Abd Aziz and Lim, Fang Leeand Md Mobarak, Hossain Khan (2023)indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and Related RiskFactors for Sick Building Syndrome (SBS)at the Office and Home: A SystematicReview. In: World Sustainable ConstructionConference Series, 13/10/2022 -15/10/2022, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. pp. 1-17., 1140 (012007).S. S. Nurud, M. Saari, I. Abdullah, A.NorMariah and B. Rafee. Influence ofnatural smoke vent opening in stairway ofmultistory building. IOP Conf. Series:Material Science and Engineering 702(2019) 012056.Nurud, S. S., M, Saari, M, Abdullah, I, Nor,M.A. and Mohd, R.B. Fire load survey inmulti-storey wholesale premise – a casestudy. International Journal of EngineeringTechnology and Science (IJEST). Vol. 5,No. 1, June 2018. 52-58..Key publicationsIndoor and Outdoor Air Quality (IAQ):This work of research in air qualityresearch addresses critical issues such asbioaerosol dynamics, including bacteriaand fungi, and their health implications.Our team’s research extends to theoccurrence and characterization ofindoor microplastics, providing insightsinto exposure risks and mitigationstrategies. We also investigate therelationship between air quality and sickbuilding syndrome (SBS), particularlyamong work-from-home and daycareenvironments.For future direction, our team aims toexpand our research on sustainable safetytechnologies, focusing on:IoT and AI applications in hazarddetection and emergency response.Policy recommendations for occupationaland environmental safety.Enhancing safety culture througheducation and behavioral interventions.
017-629 [email protected]; [email protected] ZakariaBehavior-Based Safety/ PsychologySafety culture, Safety Climate, BBS, OSH Intervention.h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher ProfileDr. Junaidah ZakariaOur research reinforces a positive safetyculture, which requires continual attention tothe dynamic and interactive dependence ofthree crucial domains: the person, behavior,and environment.Safety climate can be used to measure thecurrent safety culture because its constructusually comprises organizational context,work environment, and personal attitudes.A good safety culture at the workplace iscritical and difficult to sustain due toinconsistent worker safety behavior. At thismoment in Malaysia, there are no guidelines,SOPs, or modules for Behavioral-BasedSafety Programs that safety practitioners canrefer to implement the program at theirfacilities.Our research specialty is developing validand reliable assessments to predict safetyclimate conditions and developing acomprehensive safety intervention program.We utilize psychology in safety theoryknowledge and understanding.Research outline“A prescription without diagnosis is malpractice”Zakaria, J., Che Hassan, C. R., Hamid, M. D.,& Sukadarin, E. H. (2024). Safety attitudesamong workers in Malaysian chemicalmanufacturing plants. Process SafetyProgress, 43(1), 1–9.Zakaria, J., Che Hassan, C. R., Hamid, M. D.,& Sukadarin, E. H. (2023). Theeffectiveness of behavior-based safetyobservation program (BSOP) in thechemical manufacturing industry. ProcessSafety Progress, 43(1), 1–11.Issam, S. A., Zakaria, J., Sukadarin, E. H., &Abu Hanifah, M. S. (2024). Safety climate,attitude and behaviour assessment amongworkers in manufacturing industry.*AIPConference Proceedings, 3023*(1),030006.Key publicationsThe target aim is to increase safetyperformance in terms of the percentage ofsafe acts performed by workers, reflecting aproactive approach to safety.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile016-237 [email protected]; [email protected] WidiaErgonomics, Human Factor, Occupational Safety and Health,Road SafetyErgonomics, Human Factors, OSHDr. Mirta WidiaOur research group (OSERa) focuses onareas including occupational safety,ergonomics, process safety, and engineering.By integrating knowledge from occupationalsafety, health, engineering, and technology,OSERa aims to enhance the safety, health,and welfare of employees in the workplace.The group fosters collaboration amongresearchers in these fields both nationallyand internationally.Dr Mirta Widia led the work focusing on theintersection of ergonomics, occupationalsafety, and human factors engineering asthese affect workers' safety and health,especially musculoskeletal disorders,comfort, and productivity.Research outline“Small changes for humans, big benefits for systems”Mirta Widia, Lim Shu Chin, Ezrin HaniSukadarin, Nazlin Hanie Abdullah, &Zayyinul Hayati Zen (2024). TheAssociation between Personal Factors andHand Musculoskeletal Discomfort amongComputer Office Workers. IndustrialEngineering & Management Systems, 23(1),71-79.A. N. binti Ismail, M. Widia, E. H. bintiSukadarin, W. N. R. Binti Mohd Nawi, andM. F. bin Zainal Abidin,“Ergonomic RiskAssessment of Warehouse Workers in theCourier Service Industry: A Case Studyfrom Kuantan, Malaysia”, J. Optimasi Sist.Ind., vol. 23, no. 1, pp. 61–75, Jul. 2024.Key publicationsDr Mirta's research addresses boththeoretical and practical aspects ofergonomics, aiming to make workplacessafer and more efficient across variousindustries. She has conducted extensivestudies on ergonomics and occupationalhealth, particularly among office workers andmanual labourers. Her research links physical,psychosocial and individual factors, such asage, gender, job tenure, job satisfaction,awkward posture, repetitive motion and tool\"Ergonomics and Human Factor\"usage, to musculoskeletal discomfort,offering practical solutions to mitigate risks.She also explored manual material handling,proposing optimal lifting practices toprevent overexertion injuries. Her researchon ergonomic risk assessment tools and theirapplications in Small and Medium Enterprises(SMEs) highlights the importance of tailoredsolutions for diverse industries. Her workcontinues to impact the field by providingpractical solutions to ergonomic challenges,enhancing worker safety, and promotinghealth in various industrial sectors andcommunities.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile013-674 [email protected]; [email protected] Khairul Izamil ZolkefleyNeuroscience, occupational disease and epidemiology,ergonomics, public health, noise-induced hearing loss,neuroimagingNIHL, MRI, diffusion tensor imaging, stress, depressionDr. Mohd Khairul Izamil ZolkefleyNoise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) is asignificant occupational health issue globally,particularly among workers exposed toexcessive and prolonged noise. Despiteadvancements in noise control, NIHL remainsone of the most common occupationaldiseases, particularly in manufacturingindustries in Asia. In Malaysia, approximately21.9% of employees experience hearingimpairment, underlining the urgent need foreffective prevention and interventionstrategies. NIHL not only affects auditoryfunction but also has profound implicationson cognitive processes, speech perception,and social interactions. Our studyinvestigates the microstructural changes inthe brain associated with NIHL usingDiffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI), a noninvasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)technique. By examining alterations in whitematter integrity, the research seeks toidentify early biomarkers of NIHL, enablingtimely diagnosis and intervention. The studyspecifically focuses on brain regions involvedin auditory processing, cognitive function,and emotional regulation, including theauditory cortex, association fibres, andcerebellar areas.Research outline“You are never too old to learn”Zolkefley, M.K.I., Abdull, N., ShamsuddinPerisamy, R. et al. Investigating whitematter changes in auditory cortex andassociation fibres related to speechprocessing in noise-induced hearing loss: adiffusion tensor imaging study. Egypt JRadiol Nucl Med 55, 93 (2024)Key publicationsThe findings of our study have far-reachingimplications for both occupational health andthe broader understanding of NIHL The useof DTI for early identification ofmicrostructural brain changes offers avaluable tool for diagnosing NIHL beforesymptoms become severe. Early detectioncan enable timely interventions to preventfurther auditory and cognitive decline. Inaddition, the observed disruptions in thecingulum and ILF, coupled with cerebellarcompensations, highlight the need forholistic rehabilitation approaches.Interventions should address not onlyauditory deficits but also cognitive andemotional impairments, potentiallyintegrating auditory training with cognitivetherapies to enhance recovery.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile012-741 [email protected]; [email protected] NAJIB BIN YACOBOccupational Safety and Health, Risk Assessment, MarneSafety, Transportation SafetyRisk, Hazard, HAZMAT transportation, Review, Qualitative,QuantitativeDr. Mohd Najib YacobA new comprehensive method for SafetyAssessment-based index specific onmaritime transportation of HazardousMaterials (HAZMAT) known as MATSI aredeveloped for asssing the potentialoperational risk in loading and unloadingactivities in maritime transportation involvingtwo parts which are the contributing factors(CPI) and the port capability index (PCI)respectively.There are 15 parameters that have beencategorized under three main categorieswhich are environment (E), chemical (C) andmanagement (M). Furthermore, the indexwas developed based on various steps suchas parameters ranking, assigning penaltiesscore for each parameter, determiningweightage based on Delphi-AHP method,conducting Sensitivity Analysis and alsocalculating operational values from the portsurvey.The usability of this index method (MATSI)has been applied to two case Studies at portA and port B in Malaysia.Research outline“JUDGEMENT IS TO BE BASED ON KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING”Syarah Adibah, J., Mohd Najib, Y. (2022)Contributing Factors Towards HumanErrors on Road Transport Safety AmongCommercial Vehicle Drivers. HumanCentered Technology for a BetterTomorrow: Proceedings of HUMENS 2021,243-252Yacob, M.N., Hassim, M.H. (2018) FactorsContributing to HAZMAT-RelatedAccidents in Marine Transportation.Journal of Energy and Safety Technology(JEST), 1(1)Yacob, M.N, Hassim, M.H. (2017)Comprehensive review on risk assessmentmethodologies for HAZMAT transportationbetween 1995 – 2015. Journal of AdvancedReview on Scientific Research, 30(1), 12-59Key publications
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile+6012-998 [email protected]; [email protected] Norlinda Roshana Mohd NawiTools Development for Occupational Safety/RiskAssessment and Management/Product Development andWaste Minimization/Process Integration-Pinch AnalysisDr. Wan Norlinda RoshanaMohd NawiOur group (OSERa Research Group) isdedicated to advancing risk managementpractices that are compliant withOccupational Safety and Health (OSH)regulations and guidelines. Our objective isto comprehensively address workplacehazards and cultivate a culture of proactivesafety management by emphasizinginnovative tools, systems, andmethodologies. Our research and initiativesaddress a variety of occupational risks,ensuring their relevance across industriesand work environments.One of our primary contributions has beenthe creation of tools and systems foreffective hazard management. HazCheck forexample, is a self-assessment tool that helpsbusinesses comply with chemical riskmanagement regulations. It offers astructured approach to identifying,evaluating, and managing chemical hazardswhile adhering to established safetystandards. Similarly, we created WE-HIRAO,a systematic system for evaluating andmanaging risks associated with respiratorydisease infections. This system is based onthe ISO 45001:2018 OSH ManagementResearch outline“Grow beyond limits”Musni, N.N.N., Mohd Nawi, W.N.R., Widia,M. (2024). Knowledge and Awareness ofRoad Safety Among University Students.In: Hassan, M.H.A., Omar, M.N., Johari, N.H.,Zhong, Y. (eds) Proceedings of the 2ndHuman Engineering Symposium. HUMENS2023. Lecture Notes in MechanicalEngineering. Springer, Singapore.Ismail, A. N., Widia, M., binti Sukadarin, E.H., Nawi, W. N. R. B. M., & Zainal Abidin, M.F. (2024). Ergonomic Risk Assessment ofWarehouse Workers in the Courier ServiceIndustry: A Case Study from Kuantan,Malaysia. Jurnal Optimasi Sistem Industri,23(1), 61-75.2.Key publicationsSystem and the OSH Hazard Identification,Risk Assessment, and Risk Control (HIRARC)2008 guidelines. Recognizing the everchanging nature of occupational hazards, weprioritize continuous improvement andinnovation in hazard and risk managementstrategies. These practices are critical foradapting to the diverse challenges posed bydifferent work environments while ensuringthat safety measures remain effective androbust.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile017-337 [email protected]; [email protected] Abdullah SuhaimiOccupational Health, Heath Risk Assessments,Waste ManagementWorkplace Safety, Risk Assessment, Patient Safety,Health and Safety Management, Hazardous MaterialsDr. Afiza Abdullah SuhaimiOur group is dedicated in advancing theunderstanding of sharps injuries and theirimplications for patient safety andoccupational health within healthcaresettings. Sharps injuries, includingneedlesticks, cuts, and punctures, posesignificant risks to both healthcare workersand patients due to potential exposure tobloodborne pathogens. Our research focuseson examining these injuries at microscopicand mesoscopic levels, particularlyinvestigating how pathogens andcontaminants are transferred during suchincidents.Research outline“Science of Safety, Culture of Health”Dinamika Alam Sekitar: BAB10;Kepentingan Pengurusan Sisa Klinikal diPKRC.Penerbit, UKM, (2023).DA Hussin, MAA Samah, Suhaimi A.A, MKAKamarudin .A study on knowledge, attitudeand practice of COVID-19 pandemic amongthe residentsInternational Journal of HealthSciences.(2021)Suhaimi, A. A., Samsuddin, N., Nur Azlina,JK Cheng and yusof, M. Z.. What makessharps injury still happened?. AbstractProceedings of the InternationalConference on EnvironmentalSustainability and Social ScienceManagement (ICESM2019) (2019)Key publicationsUnderstanding the mechanisms behindsharps injuries is essential for developingeffective prevention strategies and safetyprotocols. Sharps injuries, such asneedlesticks, cuts, and punctures, posesignificant risks by potentially introducingpathogens into the bloodstream ofhealthcare workers and patients.\"Championing the prevention of sharpsinjuries and safeguarding patient safetytranscends mere regulatory compliance—it's a profound moral imperative.”To address these risks, it is crucial toevaluate the performance of safety devices,including safety-engineered needles andsharps disposal systems. Safety-engineeredneedles, which feature mechanisms likeretractable tips or automatic covers, need tobe rigorously tested for their reliability andeffectiveness in preventing injuries. Similarly,sharps disposal systems must be assessedfor their design efficiency and ease of use toensure proper containment and disposal ofused needles.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile+019-228 [email protected]; [email protected] Soyuti bin Haji SabranSafety culture, Generative culture, and Organizational resilienceSafety Culture Maturity, Human Factor, KnowledgeManagement in Human Error in Major Accident Prevention,Building Emergency Evacuation, Fatigue Management forOffshore WorkersTs. Dr. Ahmad Soyuti Haji SabranThe role of organizational culture andpeople-centered practices in ensuring safetyand operational excellence has becomeincreasingly evident in high-risk industries.Within the SEB group, incident investigationfindings have identified critical gaps inculture and behavioral practices assignificant contributors to major accidents.These accidents, which resulted insubstantial loss of life and damage toproperty and assets, have highlighted theurgent need for a comprehensive evaluationof the organization’s safety culture.Furthermore, the ramifications extendbeyond immediate losses, as these incidentshave profoundly impacted SEB's reputationwithin the industry, underscoring thenecessity of proactive measures to addressunderlying cultural deficiencies. This studyexplores the critical link betweenorganizational culture, people practices, andsafety outcomes within SEB. By leveragingestablished frameworks such as the HSEcultural maturity ladder and examiningindustry best practices, this research seeksto provide actionable insights into fosteringa resilient and generative safety culture. Thefindings are expected to serve as aResearch outline“Whoever saves a life, it will be as if they saved all of humanity”Sabran, A.S., Abdul Rahim, A.R., Abdul AzizS., Mohammad R. (2021) Human ErrorKnowledge Management Framework inMajor Hazard Accident Prevention, doi:https://doi.org/10.37934/arbms.22.1.17Sabran, A.S., Human Error KnowledgeManagement Framework in Major HazardAccident Prevention. (2016) Proceedingsof the 2016 International Conference onIndustrial Engineering and OperationsManagement, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,March 8-10, 2016Key publicationsfoundation for transformative strategies,ensuring and focusing on regulatorycompliance and the sustainableimprovement of safety performance andorganizational reputation. The primary aim ofthis study is to gain a comprehensiveunderstanding of the current state of peopleand safety culture within the SEB group.Understanding and following the industry’swell-established safety culture ladder as aframework, this research seeks to identifythe cultural and behavioral factorscontributing to safety performance and alignthem with best practices for improvement.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile013-475 [email protected]; [email protected] SYAFIQAH FAUZANOccupational Noise, Industrial Hygiene, Human Factor,Occupational Safety and HealthOccupational Noise, Personal Hearing Protector, IndustrialHygiene, Human FactorDr. Nur Syafiqah FauzanNur Syafiqah Binti Fauzan is a researcherwith expertise in occupational noiseexposure study within industrial settings, itsassociated health impacts, the study ofpersonal hearing protector (PHP) usageamong noise-exposed workers, and broaderoccupational safety and health research.Research outline“Empowering minds through learning”Fauzan, N. S*., Zuki, S. A. M., Sukadarin, E.H., & Widia, M. (2024, January). Preliminarystudy on the investigation of individual andorganizational factors with the use ofpersonal hearing protector (PHP) amongindustrial workers. In AIP ConferenceProceedings (Vol. 3023, No. 1). AIPPublishing.Kumar, K.A., Fauzan, N.S.*, Widia, M.,Sukadarin, E.H., Man, N.L., Ibrahim, M.I.M.(2024). Development of Noise RiskAssessment (NRA) and ManagementSystem. In: Hassan, M.H.A., Omar, M.N.,Johari, N.H., Zhong, Y. (eds) Proceedingsof the 2nd Human Engineering Symposium.HUMENS 2023. Lecture Notes inMechanical Engineering. Springer,Singapore.Key publications\"Occupational noise exposure andpsychological impact among machine andnon-machine operators\"workers at significant risk of noiseoverexposure. The statistical analysisrevealed notable differences in personalnoise exposure levels between machineoperators and non-machine operators.Occupational noise exposure is a widespreadissue in various industries, contributing tonumerous health problems. Excessive noisefrom operating machinery is a prevalentconcern that demands attention in industrialworkplaces. According to the OccupationalSafety and Health (Noise Exposure)Regulations 2019, the permissible exposurelimit is set at 85 dBA.The researcher examines noise exposurelevels and the prevalence of psychologicalhealth symptoms among machine operatorsand non-machine operators on constructionsites. The construction industry generatesnoise ranging from 80 dBA to 120 dBA dueto the operation of heavy machinery, placing
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile014-500 [email protected]; [email protected] Ashikin SopianAir quality, occupational healthIndoor Air Quality, Industrial Hygiene, Health Risk Assessment,Occupational health, Genotoxicity, BiomarkersDr. Nor Ashikin SopianOur group is dedicated to the precisequantification of indoor and outdoor airpollutants and their significant implicationsfor workers and vulnerable populations. Wealso investigate the interactions withbiomarkers to enhance our understanding ofthese critical issues. By utilizing a range ofadvanced instruments, we effectively assessexposure levels and their implications foroccupational health, ensuring that ourfindings drive meaningful change.Research outline“Positive outcomes stem from correct intentions”Nur Atekah Abdul Rahman, Nor AshikinSopian*, Nor Husna Mat Hussin, FatmawatiAdam, Noor Fatehah Mohamad Fandi,Juliana Jalaludin, and Abdul Rohim Tualeka(2025). Impact of Natural Lemongrass andAgarwood Essential Oil Diffusion on IndoorAirborne Pollutants: A Case Study of OfficeEnvironments. Building and Environment.250, 112514.Sharifah Nuradila Syed Azahar, Nor AshikinSopian, Norhidayah Abdull, Nor Husna MatHussin (2024). Determination of MoldInvasion and Occupants’ RespiratoryHealth in University Laboratories. AerosolAir Qual. Res. 24, 240119.\"Mold invasion as a threat to occupant Key publicationshealth\"Dr. Nor Ashikin has also explored innovativeapproaches to enhancing IAQ throughnatural-based solutions. In officeenvironments, she investigated the use oflemongrass and agarwood essential oils,known for their antibacterial and antifungalproperties. The study demonstrated thatessential oil diffusion, particularly withlemongrass, effectively reduced microbialcounts without compromising other airquality parameters. This research offers asustainable and practical method to improveIAQ, promoting healthier indoorenvironments.Dr. Nor Ashikin Sopian's research focuses onassessing environmental factors affectinghuman health, with a particular emphasis onindoor air quality (IAQ) and bioaerosols. Inuniversity laboratory settings, she hasexamined the influence of mold invasion onrespiratory health, combining bioaerosolsampling with the NIOSH DMAT tool. Thisstudy revealed that mold damage, coupledwith poor temperature control, contributesto respiratory symptoms such as coughingamong occupants. These findings highlightthe need for effective environmental controlsto mitigate mold growth and improve IAQ ineducational institutions.\"Lemongrass and Agarwood Essential OilDiffusion on Indoor Airborne Pollutants”Expanding beyond IAQ, her work includesexamining the impact of particle-boundpolycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) ongenetic toxicity and cancer risk, particularlyamong children near industrial areas.Through the development of newgenotoxicity models, this study providesvaluable tools for health impact assessmentsand insights into PAH distribution andsources. The findings contribute to betterenvironmental governance and underscorethe importance of protecting vulnerablepopulations, especially in industrial settings.“Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons(PAHs) and genetic toxicity”
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile013-680 [email protected]; [email protected] Mohd MokhtarFire, Dust explosion, Risk managementFire retardant, Explosion suppressant, Foam extinguishingagent, Rare earth elementTs. Dr. Khairiah Mohd MokhtarFire and explosion are closely interrelatedhazards marked by rapid chemical reactionsthat release intense heat and pressure,posing significant risks to human life,properties, and the environment. Firesgenerally involve a sustained combustionprocess that spreads across materials, whileexplosions are marked by nearlyinstantaneous combustion that releasesshock waves and expanding gases, causingwidespread infrastructure and propertydamage. Fire incidents worldwide accountfor considerable property loss and fatalities,particularly when involving highly flammablematerials—such as polymers, fabrics, andelectronics—that accelerate fire spread andintensify incident severity. Similarly, dustexplosions, recorded over decades, continueto present serious risks, leading to injuries,fatalities, and environmental harm throughtoxic gas release, which disrupts industrialprocesses and impacts public health andsafety. Understanding the mechanisms andproperties of dust explosions is paramountfor guiding safe operational practices anddesigning effective risk mitigation measures.In response, our research group has focusedon investigating the dynamics of dustResearch outline“Seek and you shall find”Sulaiman, S. Z., Mohd Mokhtar, K.*, WanSulaiman, W. Z., & Semawi, N. H. Flamepropagation and explosion characteristicsof food‐based dust as a function of dustconcentration. Process Safety Progress(2024).Key publicationsexplosions, with particular emphasis onmetal powders and food-based dust. Thiswork is crucial for fostering safer operationalpractices and implementing tailored riskreduction strategies, particularly within foodprocessing and similar sectors where dustexplosions threaten food security anddisrupt supply chains.In line with the initiatives under 14th BigBolds in Ekonomi Madani; Rare earth HGHVoutlined in 12th Malaysia Plan, we explore thepotential of rare earth elements assustainable fire retardants. This work aims tocontribute essential insights for refining theNational Mineral Policy 2, supportinggovernment efforts to promote sustainablepractices in the rare earth industry.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile+6019-967 [email protected]; [email protected] Zaiton Wan SulaimanDust explosion, Fire Safety, Occupational Safety & Health,Chemical EngineeringDust explosion, explosion risk management, chemical analysisTs. Dr. Wan Zaiton Wan SulaimanWan Zaiton binti Wan Sulaiman specializes inthe assessment of dust explosibility andexplosion severity of organic and inorganicexplosible dust. Her work revolves aroundunderstanding how different factors, such asconcentration, moisture content, and ignitiontimes, influence the explosibility of varioustypes of dust. She is actively engaged inoccupational safety and health research,aiming to mitigate risks in industries prone todust explosions.Wan Zaiton's research is pivotal inunderstanding the dynamics of dustexplosions, particularly within industrieshandling combustible powders. Her findingscould help inform safety protocols andpreventive measures in manufacturingindustry.Research outline“Prevention is the best protection against potential dangers”Wan Sulaiman, W. Z., Mohd Idris, M. F.,Gimbun, J., & Sulaiman, S. Z. (2020).Assessment of explosibility and explosionseverity of rice flour at differentconcentration and ignition time. ProcessSafety Progress, 39(S1), e12107.Wan Sulaiman, W.Z., Mohd Idris, M.F., MdKasmani, R. and Gimbun, J. (2024), DustExplosibility and Severity of Bayan andTanito Coal. Chem. Eng. Technol.W Z Wan Sulaiman et al 2020. Explosion ofrice flour at different concentration andmoisture content. IOP Conf. Ser.: Mater.Sci. Eng. 736 022027Key publicationsThis study investigates the explosibility andexplosion severity of rice flour, a materialknown for its potential to cause dustexplosions in food processing environmentsThe authors conducted a series ofexperiments to evaluate how varyingconcentrations of rice flour and different\"Assessment of explosibility andexplosion severity of rice flour at differentconcentration and ignition time\"ignition times affect its explosibility. Thefindings indicated that both higherconcentrations of rice flour and shorterignition times significantly increase thelikelihood of explosion and severity. Thestudy concluded that understanding theseparameters iscrucial for developing effectivesafety measures in the handling andprocessing of rice flour. By identifyingspecific thresholds that heighten explosionrisks, the research provides valuableguidance for industry practitioners toimplement better safety protocols, ultimatelyaiming to reduce the occurrence of dustrelated incidents.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile012-747 [email protected]; [email protected] NurliyanaOccupational Health, Occupational Safety, EnvironmentalHealth, Occupational ErgonomicHealth Risk Assessment, Occupational Toxicology, Accidentinvestigation and Analysis, Environmental Health, ErgonomicsNurliyana Moh HussinOccupational safety and health (OSH) are acritical field dedicated to ensuring the wellbeing of workers, preventing workplaceinjuries, illnesses, and fatalities, andpromoting a culture of safety. Effectiveproblem-solving in OSH requires acomprehensive approach that integratesscientific research, policy development, andpractical implementation strategies.We focus on research process for addressingOSH-related challenges. Hence, we outlinekey areas of focus, research methodologies,and the importance of evidence-basedsolutions in creating safer and healthier workenvironments. We start firstly byunderstanding the scope of OSH Challengesaddressing all types of workplace hazards,the risk factors and newly emerging issuessuch as remote work ergonomics,psychosocial stressors and technologicalintegration.The research conducted is important toprovide evidence needed for data drivendecisions, help in policy development andcontinuous improvement in the filed of OSH.Research outline“Every setback is a setup for a comeback”Amirah, M. N., Afiza, A. S., Faizal, W. I. W.,Nurliyana, M. H., & Laili, S. (n.d.). HumanHealth Risk Assessment of MetalContamination through Consumption ofFish. Science and Education Publishing.Marekan, M. E. S., Afiza, A. S., Hussin, N. M.,& Romzay, R. A. (n.d.). Cancer RiskAssessment of Trihalomethanes Exposurein Tapand Swimming Pool Water inKuantan Hotel. Penerbit Universiti MalaysiaPahang.Wan Sulaiman, W. Z., Razali, M. H., AbdulMajid, N. D., Moh Hussin, N., & Ramli, A.(2024). The Relationship Between Qualityof Life (QoL) and Academic PerformanceDuring E-Learning Among Students inHigher Learning Institution.Key publicationsSeveral methodologies are manipulatedstrategically in order to gain valuable datasuch as quantitative studies (surveys,statistics, and exposure measurements toassess risk outcomes), qualitative studies(interviews, focus group, and case study tounderstand workers perceptions andorganizational culture, mixed-methodresearch (holistic view), experimental andfield studies to test intervention in realworld settings to evaluate effectiveness.We focus on prevention strategies includingdesigns and programs to reduce workplaceinjuries and illnesses, Risk Assessment toolsthrough model development to predict andevaluate hazards, Training and Educationwith advanced materials to improve workerand manager awareness, Technology andInnovation delving into leveraging tools likewearable devices, AI and data analytics andlastly Mental Health and Well-beingaddressing stress, burnout and psychologicalrisks.However, all these are not going to becomplete without the support andcollaboration from various stakeholderinvolvement. The holistic collaboration frominterdisciplinary teams is essential to ensurethe intervention and data-driven decision areable to be executed perfectly to ensuresafety and health at workplace.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile013-971 [email protected]; [email protected] fazhilah abdul razakRisk Management, Ergonomics, Occupational Safety and HealthRisk Assessment, Ergonomics, Mental WorkloadPsychosocial ManagementNur Fazhilah Abdul RazakOur group emphasize on Occupational stressand mental workload which are significantconcerns in Malaysia's fast-evolving workenvironment, particularly in industries suchas manufacturing, healthcare, and servicesectors. As Malaysia strives to achieve ahigh-income economy, the emphasis onworkforce productivity is increasing.However, the human cost of thisproductivity, particularly related to mentalstress and overload, remains a pressing issue.This research seeks to explore how effectivepsychosocial management strategies canmitigate the adverse effects of mentalworkload and stress in occupational settings,fostering a healthier and more efficientworkforce. In addition, the problem of mentalworkload and stress in the workplace too willbe defined, with an emphasis on how poorergonomics and insufficient psychosocialsupport contribute to these issues.In Malaysia, the challenges of mental healthin the workplace are growing, with factorslike high work demands, long working hours,and job insecurity contributing to the mentalstrain of employees.Research outline“Reducing Stress, Enhancing Performance”Salleh, S., Misri, N., Saufian, I. N., Razak, N.A., Ishak, M. F., Shafie, F. A., ... (2021).Challenges in crisis management onenvironmental health: The delivery ofenvironmental health services in Malaysiaseries. MAEH Journal of EnvironmentalHealth, 3(1), 9-13.Hanifah, M. S. A., Zakaria, J., Sukadarin, E.H., Razak, N. F. A., Widia, M., Nawi, W., ...(2024). Exploring the relationship betweenknowledge of the Child Presence Detection(CPD) system and intention to purchaseamong adults in Malaysia. Journal of theSociety of Automotive Engineers Malaysia,8(1), 15-23.Key publicationsErgonomic practices have been widelyrecognized in mitigating physical strain, butthere is an increasing recognition of theimportance of addressingpsychosocial factors—such as workplacerelationships, job satisfaction, supportsystems, and work-life balance—inpreventing mental stress and overload.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher Profile017-799 [email protected]; [email protected] ShahriOccupational Safety, Occupational Health, Industrial Hygiene,Occupational Exposure, Industrial Psychology, Fire Safety, ERPOSH, microplastics, environmentZarifah ShahriWorkplace Safety – Recent researchexplores the integration of artificialintelligence (AI) in hazard detection andaccident prevention.Occupational Health – A growing area ofresearch focuses on the long-term healtheffects of microplastic exposure in industrialworkers. Studies are investigating howairborne microplastics in manufacturingenvironments contribute to respiratorydiseases and overall worker well-being.Industrial Hygiene – New advancementshighlight the use of wearable sensors forreal-time monitoring of airbornecontaminants.Industrial Psychology – Emerging studiesexamine the impact of remote and hybridwork on employee mental health and job.OSH Legislations – Recent research assessesthe effectiveness of stricter penalties forworkplace safety violations.Research outline“Research with curiosity, work with purpose, and share with others”Abdull, N., Muhammad, N. S. I., Mokhtar, K.M., & Shahri, Z. (2024). Occurrence,characterization, and transport mechanismof welding fumes particles emitted duringthe welding process. In Journal of Physics:Conference Series (Vol. 2688, No. 1, p.012010). IOP Publishing.Azman, N. F. A., Abdull, N., Mokhtar, M. K.,& Shahri, Z. (2023). A Systematic Reviewof the Concentration of Bacteria inDaycare Centers (DCCs). Current Scienceand Technology, 3(1), 40-47.Abdull, N., Shaari, Z., Suhaimi, N. S., &Zahaba, M. (2021). Characterization of PM2.5 and Indoor-Outdoor (I/O) Ratio in theIndoor Office Connected to the ChemicalProduction Plant in Gebeng IndustrialZone, Pahang Malaysia. In HealthyBuildings 2021–Europe. Proceedings of the17th International Healthy BuildingsConference 21–23 June 2021. SINTEFAcademic Press.Key publicationsFire Safety – Advanced fire suppressionsystems using smart technology are a keyresearch focus.
h t t p s : / / f i s t . u m p s a . e d u . m y /Researcher [email protected] Fazrina Mohamad SallehOccupational Risk Assessment Tool, Human Factors & Ergonomics,Occupational Safety & HealthNew and Emerging Risks (NER), Safety Modelling, Ergonomic RiskAssessmentNur Fazrina Mohamad SallehResearch outline“Committed to research that makes a difference”Mohamad Salleh, N. F., Sukadarin, E. H., &Abdul Aziz, H. (2025). Towards a model ofnew and emerging occupational risks forsmall and medium enterprises (SMEs).Safety and Reliability, 1–30.Mohamad Salleh, N. F., Abdul Aziz, H., &Sukadarin, E. H. (2023). New and emergingoccupational risk and associations withsmall and medium enterprises (SMEs) inMalaysia: A review. AIP ConferenceProceedings, 2682, 060005.T. Nordin, T. M., Abdul Aziz, H., MohamadSalleh, N. F., Muhammad Azmi, M. A. F., &Ramli, K. H. (2023). Emerging risksmanagement in small and medium-sizedenterprises. AIP Conference Proceedings,2682, 060007.Key publicationsNur Fazrina Mohamad Salleh is a researcherspecializing in the development of riskassessment tools, with a particular focus onidentifying and evaluating new and emergingrisks (NER) in small and medium enterprises(SMEs).New and emerging risks (NER) areincreasingly recognized as critical challengesin occupational safety and health,particularly within small and mediumenterprises (SMEs). Due to rapidtechnological advancement, changing workenvironments, and evolving workforcecharacteristics, SMEs often encounter risksthat are complex, dynamic, and difficult toassess using conventional methods. Thisresearch seeks to identify, categorize, andevaluate NER across psychosocial, chemical,physical, and biological dimensions tounderstand their impact on workplace safetyand health. The researcher develops astructured model and a practical riskassessment tool customized for SMEs. Thetool aims to assist safety practitioners and\"New and Emerging Risk Prediction Modelfor Small and Medium Enterprises inMalaysia\"employers in systematically identifying andprioritizing emerging risks, therebyfacilitating proactive risk management. Thefindings of this study are expected tostrengthen organizational safety culture,support regulatory compliance, and promotesustainable improvements in occupationalsafety and health performance within theSMEs sector.