IJN University College (IJNUC) continues to strengthen its reputation in research and innovation after the Pharmacy Team from the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences secured the Gold Award at the prestigious 7th Malaysia-Japan International Conference on Nanoscience, Nanotechnology, and Nanoengineering 2026 (MJIC 2026).
The achievement highlights IJNUC’s commitment to advancing impactful research initiatives that contribute to sustainability, innovation, and community well-being through interdisciplinary collaboration.
Award-Winning Research Team
The award-winning team consisted of:
- Wan Azman Wan Ismail (IJNUC)
- Ts. Dr. Noreen Ang (IJNUC)
- Nur Shahirah Mohamed Yasin (IJNUC)
- Ts. Vitalis Ronald Eden (IJNUC)
- Che Amira Izzati (IJNUC)
- Prof. Dr. Mizaton Hazizul Hasan (UiTM)
The research project, titled “From Invasive to Irresistible: Good for Cats, Good for Nature”, was developed through a strategic collaboration between IJN University College, the Fisheries Research Institute under the Department of Fisheries Malaysia, and the Faculty of Pharmacy, UiTM Puncak Alam.
Transforming Environmental Challenges into Sustainable Solutions
The project focuses on the innovative formulation and characterization of wet cat food developed from invasive suckermouth armoured catfish, commonly known as pleco. The species has long been recognised as an environmental concern due to its impact on aquatic ecosystems.
By converting this invasive species into a sustainable pet nutrition product, the research team successfully demonstrated how scientific innovation can create environmentally responsible solutions while supporting the growing pet food industry.
The study involved comprehensive research components, including:
- Product formulation and characterization
- Toxicity evaluation in animals
- Heavy metal analysis
- Nutritional characterization for optimal pet growth and development
These evaluations ensure that the product meets safety, quality, and nutritional standards suitable for pet consumption.
Advancing Towards Commercialization
The project has now achieved Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 7, marking a significant milestone towards commercialization. This advancement reflects the project’s strong potential for real-world application and industry adoption.
The success of this research demonstrates the importance of collaboration between higher education institutions, industry experts, and government agencies in driving innovation that benefits both society and the environment.
IJNUC’s Commitment to Research Excellence
This recognition at MJIC 2026 further reinforces IJN University College’s dedication to academic excellence, research innovation, and sustainable development. Through initiatives such as this, IJNUC continues to empower researchers and academics to develop impactful solutions aligned with global sustainability goals.
IJNUC congratulates the entire research team on this outstanding accomplishment and looks forward to continued success in future research and innovation initiatives.
