SANDAKAN: A two-day exchange programme between a Taiwanese university delegation and Sabah stakeholders has opened new avenues for collaboration in forestry research, sustainability and industry development.
The visit was facilitated by Tanjung Papat Assemblyman Alex Thien Ching Qiang and coordinated by the Malaysia Talent Education and Industry-Academia Collaboration Association (M-TEIA).
The delegation was led by Associate Professor Dr Chih-Hsin Chung, Chair of NIU’s Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, and included Professor Dr Tzu-Cheng Chang, Associate Professor Dr Pei-Yu Kuo, postgraduate researcher Jia-Tsung Cheng, M-TEIA Chairman Pang Thou Chong, and Project Coordinator Pang Sheau Chyan.
On June 18, the delegation visited Wilmar’s Palm Oil Mill in the Sapi region to gain first-hand exposure to Sabah’s palm oil industry, including its renewable energy initiatives, sustainable production practices and circular economy applications.
During the visit, Wilmar Mill Operations General Manager Ir Lo Yee Hang briefed the delegation on the development of Sabah’s palm oil sector, current industry trends, production systems and sustainability strategies.
The group was also given a guided tour of the mill’s processing facilities and engaged in discussions with representatives from various departments on research, innovation and future collaboration opportunities.
Among the key topics discussed was the potential utilisation of biomass by-products generated by the palm oil industry, particularly Empty Fruit Bunches (EFB) and Palm Kernel Shells (PKS).
Both parties also exchanged views on the possibility of extracting valuable compounds from palm oil mill effluent (POME) through further research and technological innovation, creating higher value-added applications while supporting sustainability goals.
Meanwhile, Alex said Sabah’s palm oil industry remains one of the state’s key economic pillars, contributing significantly to economic growth and employment.
“As the industry continues to embrace automation, digitalisation and green transformation, the demand for skilled talent, research innovation and sustainable management is becoming increasingly important. Strengthening collaboration between universities, research institutions and industry players is essential in developing future-ready talent and driving industrial advancement,” he said.
On June 19, the delegation visited the Forest Research Centre (FRC), where they were welcomed by Deputy Chief Conservator of Forests (Research and Development) Dr Arthur Chung, Head of the Forest Produce and Products Programme (FPP) Zamrie Imiyabir, and officers from the programme.
The visit began with presentations from both parties, highlighting their respective institutions, ongoing research activities and areas of expertise. Discussions centred on forestry research, scientific innovation, talent development, carbon management, sustainability education and potential avenues for future collaboration.
The delegation later toured several research facilities and laboratories under the Chemistry and Phytochemistry Section and the Wood Science and Utilisation Section.
Facilities visited included the sawmill, wood workshop and carpentry unit, wood testing laboratory, xylarium, wood anatomy laboratory and formaldehyde emission laboratory. The group also had the opportunity to visit the RDC Skywalk.
Alex noted that Sabah’s globally recognised tropical rainforests and rich biodiversity provide unique advantages in forest conservation, natural resource management, carbon sequestration research and ecological studies.
“With growing global attention on environmental protection, climate change and sustainable development, strengthening scientific research, talent cultivation and international cooperation has become increasingly important.
“Sabah and Taiwan share many common interests in forestry research, natural resource management, carbon governance and sustainability education, creating strong potential for future collaboration,” he said.
He added that such academic exchanges not only enhance mutual understanding between institutions and industries but also create opportunities for joint research projects, student and researcher exchanges, technical training, internships and technology transfer.
Alex expressed his appreciation to M-TEIA for coordinating the programme and thanked Wilmar Palm Oil Mill and the Sabah Forestry Department for their hospitality and support throughout the visits.
He said the exchange programme had provided a valuable platform for knowledge sharing and networking while laying a strong foundation for future collaboration between Taiwan and Sabah in forestry research, sustainable resource management, agricultural technology, renewable energy, talent development and industry-academia partnerships.
“Through stronger international cooperation and knowledge exchange, we can jointly contribute towards green growth, innovation and a more sustainable future for the next generation,” he added.
