By Anne Das
Quest International University (QIU) has entered into two new industry collaborations aimed at advancing sustainable research while giving students greater exposure to real-world challenges.
The university signed Memoranda of Understanding with UniOleo Sdn Bhd and Lee Flower Farm Sdn Bhd during a recent ceremony at its Ipoh campus.
Although the partnerships involve different industries, both will bring university researchers, students and industry specialists together to develop practical solutions through science and technology.
QIU’s collaboration with UniOleo will centre on environmentally friendly pyrolysis processes under the university’s Environmental Technology programme.
UniOleo is involved in waste tyre recycling and specialises in recovering, processing and trading recycled materials. The company is working to expand sustainable recycling technologies and contribute to the circular economy through improved waste management methods.
UniOleo Holdings Berhad Marketing and Operation Director Mr Mok Kai Choon said sustainability and innovation must progress together.
“We look forward to this chance to work with students and researchers to find new ideas, reflecting our commitment to sustainable solutions,” he said.
The second collaboration will see QIU work with Lee Flower Farm in Cameron Highlands through its Biotechnology programme.
Research will cover tissue culture, pest and disease control, fertiliser innovation and sustainable agricultural practices. The work is expected to support better productivity and quality within the floriculture industry.
Lee Flower Farm has over 20 years of experience cultivating, producing and exporting premium flowers to markets across Asia. The company has continued to introduce modern agricultural technologies into its operations.
Lee Flower Farm Director Mr Wilson Lee said the partnership would bring academic research closer to the needs of the agricultural sector.
“We aim to bridge the gap between industry and academia, promoting talent development as well as innovation in tissue culture, pest and disease control and sustainable practices,” he said.
The MoUs were signed by Global Integrated Training Associates Chief Executive Officer Mr Nicholas Goh together with representatives from both companies.
For the UniOleo agreement, the company was represented by Mr Mok and Production Director Mr Kent Liew Tyng Giang. The signing was witnessed by Professor Dr Vilasini Pillai, Dean of QIU’s Faculty of Integrated Life Sciences.
The agreement with Lee Flower Farm was signed by Mr Nicholas and Mr Wilson. Professor Dr Vilasini and the farm’s Chief Operating Officer Ms Connie Lee served as witnesses.
Mr Nicholas said the collaborations would keep QIU’s teaching and research closely connected to current industry needs.
“We want to use our research and development capabilities to find sustainable, impactful solutions to challenges in important industries.”
The partnerships will allow QIU students to take part in industry-related research from their undergraduate years. They will gain practical experience while working alongside academics and industry professionals.
For QIU, the two agreements strengthen an educational approach that brings industry challenges directly into university research. For UniOleo and Lee Flower Farm, they provide access to academic expertise and young talent as both companies pursue more sustainable ways of operating.
