Aceh, Indonesia – 8 July 2026 – MILA University strengthened its academic and research partnership with Malikussaleh University (Universitas Malikussaleh, UNIMAL) in Aceh, Indonesia, during a two-day academic visit from 7 to 8 July 2026.
Dr. Pratheep Sandrasaigaran from MILA University’s School of Biotechnology participated in the visit, which strengthened the longstanding relationship between the two universities while exploring new opportunities for academic and research collaboration. The visit also provided a platform for researchers from both institutions to exchange knowledge, discuss emerging research areas, and develop potential joint initiatives.
Strengthening Academic and Research Engagement
During the visit, Dr. Pratheep met with UNIMAL’s management and academic representatives to discuss prospective research projects, areas of mutual interest, and opportunities for future collaboration.
Complementing these discussions, the programme included a tour of UNIMAL’s laboratories, classrooms, and other academic facilities, providing further insight into its academic and research environment.
The engagement continued through seminars and knowledge-sharing sessions, where researchers from both universities exchanged expertise, discussed emerging research trends, and identified potential areas for joint research.
Advancing Joint Research in Sustainable Innovation
Building on this broader academic exchange, a key highlight of the visit was the execution of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between MILA University and Malikussaleh University for a collaborative research project titled “Integrated Bioconversion of Food Waste to BSF-Derived Chitin and Its Conversion to Chitosan for Sustainable Bioplastic Applications.”.
The MoA was previously signed by Professor Dr. Cao Fei, Chief Executive Officer, MILA Education Malaysia Sdn Bhd. Representing MILA University, Dr. Pratheep Sandrasaigaran subsequently presented the document to UNIMAL for completion by its designated signatory.
The agreement marks the commencement of a joint research initiative between the two universities, focusing on sustainable approaches to food waste management and the development of bioplastic materials.
By connecting food waste management with the development of sustainable materials, the collaboration reflects both institutions’ shared commitment to environmental conservation, sustainable innovation, and the circular economy. It also provides researchers from both universities with an opportunity to combine their expertise in addressing practical sustainability challenges.
Building a Stronger Foundation for Future Collaboration
Beyond the joint research initiative, the academic visit reaffirmed the strong partnership between MILA University and Malikussaleh University while creating further opportunities for academic mobility, knowledge sharing, and future institutional collaboration.
Through continued institutional engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration, both universities are strengthening their international academic networks and supporting research that addresses sustainability and other global challenges.
The visit reflects MILA University’s continued commitment to international academic engagement, knowledge exchange, and sustainable innovation through meaningful partnerships with institutions across the region.
