Written by Ahamad Amirul Afhiq bin Ahamad
Edited by Nuratiqah Imani binti Noordin
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), in partnership with SD Guthrie Research Sdn. Bhd. (SDGR), has inaugurated the Advanced Mechanization Satellite Lab (AMSL) — the country’s first satellite lab focused on research, development, and innovation in palm oil plantation mechanization. The official launch took place on 12 March 2025, with UTM’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Prof. Dr. Rosli Md Illias, and Ir. Dr. Mohd Shiraz Aris, Head of Upstream Research at SDGR, is officiating the event.
Prof. Dr. Rosli described AMSL as more than a research facility. “It embodies UTM’s commitment to sustainable solutions that meet industry needs and reflects strong university-industry collaboration. Its establishment aligns with our ASCEND2030 strategic plan, emphasizing high-impact research, sustainable industrial partnerships, and globally competitive talent development.”
The lab addresses mechanization challenges on plantations by combining UTM and SDGR’s expertise, particularly in developing efficient and sustainable palm oil harvesting technologies.
The AMSL is led by Ir. Dr. Amir Putra Md. Saad was established through strategic collaboration with SD Guthrie Research (SDGR). Since 2021, both parties have worked together on the Integrated Harvesting Mechanism (IHM) initiative to advance mechanization technologies for plantations. This collaboration aligns with the vision of Ts. Dr. Mohd Zulfahmi Mohd Yusoff, Head of Advanced Mechanization Technology at SDGR.
- Research and Academics: The initiative prioritizes innovative solutions for plantation mechanization.
- Talent Development: Industry expertise is shared to enrich and strengthen the academic curriculum.
- Graduate Preparation: The collaboration aims to equip graduates with industry-ready skills and practical exposure.
The establishment of AMSL further reinforces UTM’s commitment to advancing mechanical engineering research, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and strengthening partnerships between academia and industry to support sustainable innovation in Malaysia’s plantation sector.
