Malang, Indonesia – August 13, 2024 – The Department of Civil Engineering and Planning at the Faculty of Engineering, State University of Malang, became a melting pot of ideas and innovation today as it hosted a highly anticipated seminar at the A20 Building. The event drew a diverse audience of students, faculty members, and industry professionals, all eager to engage with cutting-edge developments in civil engineering and related fields.
The seminar, a key event on the university’s academic calendar, featured a lineup of distinguished speakers from around the world. Each brought a wealth of knowledge and unique perspectives to the table, making for a day filled with learning, inspiration, and lively discussions.
Ecosystem and Urban Planning
The day began with an insightful presentation by Dr. Camar P. Ameril, an Assistant Professor from Mindanao State University, The Philippines. Dr. Ameril, who is also a PhD candidate, shared his expertise on the “Ecosystem Impact in Urban Planning.” He delved into the delicate balance between urban development and ecological preservation, urging the audience to consider the long-term environmental consequences of urbanization. His talk was a poignant reminder of the need to integrate ecological wisdom into the fabric of city planning, to ensure that our cities grow sustainably and harmoniously with nature.
Geotechnic Solutions for Sustainable Construction
Next on stage was Ts. Dr. Nor Faizah Bawadi, the Deputy Dean of Student Affairs at Universiti Malaysia Perlis, Malaysia. Dr. Bawadi captivated the audience with her presentation on “Innovative Geotechnic Solutions for Sustainable Construction.” With a passion for sustainable engineering, she highlighted how modern geotechnic techniques can minimize environmental impacts and enhance the durability of construction projects. Dr. Bawadi’s talk resonated strongly with the audience, particularly as she showcased real-world applications of these innovative solutions, emphasizing their potential to transform the construction industry.
Biotechnology and Civil Engineering
Samuel Halomoan Tambunan, a researcher from the Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology at Academia Sinica, Taiwan, brought a fascinating twist to the seminar with his discussion on “Biotechnology Applications in Civil Engineering.” Mr. Tambunan, who holds a Master’s degree in Science, explored how biotechnological advances can be leveraged to address some of the most pressing challenges in civil engineering, such as waste management and the development of sustainable materials. His talk opened the audience’s eyes to the vast possibilities that arise when biotechnology intersects with traditional engineering disciplines.
Hydrological Considerations in Urban and Regional Planning
The seminar continued with a presentation by Wiyanda Naufal Aflah, a PhD student from The University of Sydney, Australia. His lecture on “Hydrological Considerations in Urban and Regional Planning” was both timely and relevant, given the increasing challenges posed by climate change. Aflah discussed the importance of hydrology in urban planning, particularly in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in rapidly urbanizing areas. His data-driven approach and thoughtful analysis provided the audience with a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in planning water-resilient cities.
Environmental Engineering in Sustainable Construction
Rounding off the seminar was Ts. Dr. Salwa Zaini Makhtar, another Deputy Dean of Student Affairs from Universiti Malaysia Perlis, Malaysia. Dr. Makhtar’s talk on “Environmental Engineering in Sustainable Construction” was a fitting conclusion to the day’s events. She eloquently articulated how principles of environmental engineering can be integrated into construction practices to create buildings that are not only structurally sound but also environmentally responsible. Her presentation was both inspirational and practical, offering the audience concrete examples of sustainable construction practices that can be implemented in their own work.
A Day of Enlightenment and Engagement
The seminar was more than just a series of lectures—it was a platform for intellectual exchange and professional networking. Attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with the speakers during Q&A sessions, where lively discussions ensued. The event also provided a rare opportunity for students to connect with international experts, potentially paving the way for future collaborations.
The overwhelming response to the seminar underscored the importance of such events in fostering a culture of innovation and sustainability within the field of civil engineering. As the day came to a close, there was a palpable sense of excitement in the air—a shared belief that the ideas exchanged today would inspire the next generation of engineers to build a more sustainable and resilient world.
