A Year-End Highlight Showcasing Research Innovation and National Recognition
Nilai, Negeri Sembilan – 06 December 2025 – As 2025 draws to a close, MILA University proudly celebrates a significant milestone in research excellence with the recognition of two of its distinguished researchers under the Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS). This achievement reflects the University’s growing impact to higher education in Malaysia via sustainability, interdisciplinary collaboration, and its position within research innovation in Malaysia.
MILA Researchers Honoured at the Ministry of Higher Education’s FRGS Award Ceremony
Dr. Nur Syazana Rashidi and Dr. Sharmilla Ashokhan were officially awarded FRGS Grant at the Ministry of Higher Education (MoHE) FRGS/ PRGS Award Ceremony, held in conjunction with the Festival of Ideas (FOI) at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC).
The ceremony was also attended by Associate Professor Ir. Dr. Vengadeshwaran, Director of the Research Management Centre. His presence reflected MILA University’s continued commitment to fostering a strong and supportive research culture.
The ceremony marked a proud moment for MILA University, highlighting the dedication, expertise, and research capabilities of its academic community.
Advancing Biomedical Engineering and Climate-Adaptive Biotechnology
The awarded FRGS research projects showcase high impact research practical applications and knowledge in healthcare and environmental sustainability.
Dr. Nur Syazana Rashidi’s project focuses on the development of electrospun PET/Fibrinogen/Gelatin scaffolds to enhance tissue regeneration for SDVG applications, contributing to progress in biomedical engineering research as well as with its focus in regenerative medicine.
Meanwhile, Dr. Sharmilla Ashokhan’s research explores the potential of biochar nanoparticles to improve drought tolerance in Vanilla planifolia, addressing critical challenges in climate-adaptive biotechnology and sustainable agriculture.
Together, these projects strengthen Malaysia’s research ecosystem while addressing growing global scientific and environmental needs.
Strengthening Strategic Research Collaborations
These FRGS-funded research are further enriched through strong collaborations with leading institutions and industry partners, including University Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM), National Cancer Institute, Bumi Automasi Sdn. Bhd., University of Malaya (UM), and Carbon Zero Sdn Bhd.
Such partnerships underscore MILA University’s commitment to research that bridges academia, industry, and societal impact.
Looking Ahead: Driving Innovation Beyond 2025
This FRGS recognition represents more than an individual achievement, it is a testament to MILA University’s strategic focus on research, innovation, and sustainability. As the University looks ahead to 2026, it remains committed to empowering researchers to drive impactful discoveries and contribute meaningfully to national and global development.
MILA University proudly stands behind its researchers as they continue to push boundaries, foster innovation, and shape the future of science and higher education.
Learn more about our research initiatives: www.mila.edu.my
