A delegation of 28 students from the Engineering Society of Universiti Malaya (ESUM), also known as the IEM-UM Student Section, recently embarked on an academic exchange visit to Peking University (PKU) and Tianjin University (TJU) in China. Led by Assoc. Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Lai Khin Wee, Head of the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Universiti Malaya (UM) and supported by the UM Faculty of Engineering, the visit aimed to foster academic collaboration, explore groundbreaking research, and strengthen industry linkages between Malaysia and China.
The delegation comprised second to fourth-year students from various engineering disciplines, including Biomedical, Electronic, Chemical, Civil, and Mechanical Engineering. Throughout the visit, students had the unique opportunity to interact with top researchers, visit state-of-the-art laboratories, and gain valuable insights into China’s advancements in engineering and technology.
Advancing AI and Materials Science at Peking University
At Peking University (PKU), the delegation explored cutting-edge research labs at the School of Materials Science and Engineering, emphasizing AI-driven materials research and international collaborations. A key discussion between Assoc. Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Lai Khin Wee and Professor Zhao Xiaoxu focused on the proposed China-Malaysia Joint Laboratory for AI & Materials, pending approval under the “Belt and Road” initiative. This initiative aims to integrate AI and materials science in key areas such as AI-driven materials design, smart materials, materials genome engineering, and big data analytics. UM Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Kaharudin bin Dimyati and PKU Vice-Chancellor Professor Zhang Jin highlighted the lab’s potential in strengthening Malaysia-China scientific partnerships.
Cutting-Edge Engineering Research at Tianjin University
The visit to Tianjin University provided students with insights into a wide range of engineering fields, from civil and mechanical engineering to chemical and water resource management. TJU, one of China’s top engineering institutions, is home to several world-class research centers. The delegation explored:
- National Facility (World’s Largest) for Earthquake Engineering Simulation – A state-of-the-art lab opened recently in November 2024, dedicated to seismic resilience research, where researchers demonstrated advanced techniques in earthquake-resistant materials and structural analysis.
- Hydraulic Engineering Laboratory – A key center for sustainable water management projects, including flood control initiatives such as the Wuxikou Integrated Flood Management Project and the Yellow River Guxian Flood Management Project.
- School of Chemical Engineering – Renowned for breakthroughs in sustainable chemical production and AI-driven process optimization, paving the way for greener industrial processes.
- School of Mechanical Engineering – A highlight was the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Laboratory, where researchers showcased autonomous agricultural drones and self-driving logistics vehicles designed for smart farming applications.
Industry & Student Engagement: Expanding Perspectives Beyond Academia
Beyond academic exchanges, the delegation explored China’s dynamic industrial landscape through visits to leading technology companies, including BOE Technology, Oriental Yuhong, and NXP Semiconductors. These engagements provided students with firsthand exposure to industry trends in materials science, display technologies, sustainable engineering solutions, and semiconductor innovation.
Oriental Yuhong cements itself as a key player in the materials and waterproofing industry, being the supplier and key executer of multiple national-scale projects such as the multiple venues of the 2008 Beijing Olympics. BOE Technology provided fascinating insights and showcased its strong leadership in Internet of Things and LED developments, exposing students to the finite possibilities of engineering.
At NXP Semiconductors Tianjin, a global leader in automotive electronics and IoT solutions, students were introduced to cutting-edge advancements in AI-driven embedded systems, secure connectivity, and automotive-grade chips. Interactive sessions allowed them to understand how research in semiconductor technology translates into real-world applications such as smart cities and autonomous vehicles.
These industry visits broadened the participants’ perspectives on engineering beyond theoretical knowledge, offering insights into career pathways and networking opportunities with professionals in the field.
ESUM: Bridging Academia and Industry for Future Engineers
Now in its 66th year of legacy, the Engineering Society of Universiti Malaya (ESUM), in consortium with the IEM-UM Student Section (IEM-UM SS), continues to foster academic exchange, career development, and professional networking for engineering students at Universiti Malaya (UM). As one of the largest and most active student organizations on campus, ESUM plays a pivotal role in bridging academia and industry by organizing technical workshops, industry visits, and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
As the official student chapter of The Institution of Engineers, Malaysia (IEM) at UM, ESUM is dedicated to equipping students with real-world engineering exposure. Under the leadership of Chai Jing Xuan and Chee Xiong Yew, and guided by Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. David Chuah Joon Huang, the society actively organizes seminars, networking events, and hands-on learning opportunities to prepare students for successful engineering careers.
This academic exchange visit to China marks another milestone in ESUM and IEM-UM SS’ commitment to international collaboration, reinforcing its mission to provide students with meaningful learning experiences beyond the classroom. Through global partnerships and industry engagement, ESUM continues to shape the next generation of engineering leaders.
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