Banda Aceh, December 18, 2024 – The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) of Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK) continues its strategic steps to expand its international network through a reciprocal visit to the Faculty of Artificial Intelligence (FAI) at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and a meeting with industry partner Akhramsyah MU Sanusi, Founder of Kitaran Tabah Sdn Bhd. This visit is part of a follow-up on initiatives launched by USK Rector Prof. Dr. Ir. Marwan in support of USK’s mission to become a world-class university. The agenda focused on discussions regarding collaboration in artificial intelligence (AI) research, innovation, and sustainability initiatives.
Innovative Collaboration with FAI-UTM
The FMIPA USK delegation, comprising Prof. Dr. Taufik Fuadi Abidin, S.Si, M.Tech, Dean of FMIPA USK, and Dr. Ir. Wira Dharma, S.Si, M.Si, M.P, Vice Dean for Student Affairs, Alumni, and Collaboration, was warmly welcomed by the UTM representatives, including Prof. Dr. ABD Latief Saleh, Pro-Vice Chancellor of UTM Kuala Lumpur, and Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Mohd Naz’ri Mahringanti, Dean of the Faculty of Artificial Intelligence (FAI-UTM).
The productive discussion resulted in several strategic agreements, including:
- Joint Research: Conducting research on AI applications to address global challenges in health, education, and agriculture.
- Academic Mobility: Initiating exchange programs for faculty and students to enrich cross-regional and cross-cultural experiences while enhancing academic capabilities.
- International Seminars: Collaborating to host international seminars/webinars aimed at expanding networks and sharing knowledge among students, academics, and professionals.
“This collaboration is not merely an opportunity but a shared responsibility to produce innovations relevant to global society,” said Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Mohd Naz’ri Mahringanti.
As a symbol of commitment, the two institutions signed a Letter of Intent, exchanged souvenirs, and discussed immediate actions to implement the agreed collaborative initiatives.
International Webinar on AI Ethics Initiative
One of the strategic programs proposed during the visit is the organization of an international webinar on AI ethics, aimed at addressing the urgent need for ethical guidelines in the increasingly widespread use of AI technology.
The webinar will feature speakers from three countries, focusing on urgent issues regarding the responsible use of AI. The main discussion will revolve around ensuring that AI development positively impacts society while upholding ethical values.
“With the rapid development of AI technology, ethics must become a foundational pillar. This webinar serves as an initial platform for fostering global awareness of the importance of responsibility and ethics in AI utilization,” said Prof. Taufik.
This initiative is part of FMIPA USK’s larger vision to play an active role in drafting ethical AI guidelines through cross-country collaboration.
Collaboration with Kitaran Tabah
In a separate session, the FMIPA USK delegation held a dedicated meeting with Akhramsyah MU Sanusi, Founder of Kitaran Tabah, an industry partner focused on environmental sustainability. The meeting explored collaboration opportunities in supporting clean energy transitions, environmental protection, and the development of other sustainability initiatives.
Key agenda items included:
- Carbon Trading: Developing carbon trading mechanisms to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support global sustainability agendas.
- Mangrove Mapping in Aceh: Collaborating to map mangrove ecosystems in Aceh as an initial step in coastal ecosystem conservation and climate change mitigation.
“Implementing this collaboration represents a concrete step in creating synergy between USK’s academics and the industry to tackle global sustainability challenges. By combining FMIPA USK’s expertise and our experience in the environmental sector, we are optimistic about creating impactful solutions,” said Akhramsyah MU Sanusi.
As an initial step, Kitaran Tabah committed to fully supporting FMIPA USK’s efforts to realize innovative sustainability programs. A joint working team is also planned to ensure that all agreed agendas are implemented according to the set targets.
Future Steps: Driving Sustainable Innovation
In 2025, FMIPA USK, FAI-UTM, and industry partners will begin implementing several strategic programs designed to drive sustainable innovation. These programs include:
- The launch of an international webinar on AI ethics.
- Collaborative research projects on artificial intelligence aimed at addressing global technological challenges.
- Initiatives to map and conserve mangroves in Aceh as a tangible contribution to environmental sustainability.
Each initiative is designed to deliver significant positive impacts to society. These programs also represent FMIPA USK’s commitment to strengthening its position as an academic institution responsive to global issues.
“With these collaborative strategic steps, we are optimistic that FMIPA USK will not only become a pioneer in technological innovation but also make a significant contribution to shaping a better and more sustainable future,” concluded Prof. Taufik.
This visit marks a strategic milestone in FMIPA USK’s efforts to strengthen its international network, affirming the institution’s commitment to driving innovation and delivering broad societal impacts.
