Rising seas and coastal erosion are pressing challenges for Malaysia’s extensive shorelines, and a week-long research collaboration at Universiti Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Institute of Marine Engineering Technology (UniKL MIMET) brought international expertise to tackle these issues.
Dr. Pietro Scandura, Associate Professor of Hydraulics from the University of Catania, Italy, spent a week in January 2026 sharing his knowledge in coastal hydrodynamics, marine renewable energy, and nature-based coastal protection with UniKL MIMET staff and students.
The programme began with a formal welcome and institutional presentations, highlighting the research and innovation strengths of both UniKL MIMET and the University of Catania.
These discussions laid the groundwork for potential collaboration in fluid mechanics, marine hydrodynamics, and sustainable coastal infrastructure.
Throughout the week, Dr. Scandura engaged in technical discussions, laboratory visits, and knowledge-sharing sessions, touring key facilities including the wave tank laboratory.
He introduced advanced numerical and experimental techniques for analysing wave–current interactions and sediment transport, exposing UniKL MIMET staff and students to methodologies applied at the University of Catania’s Hydraulic Laboratory.
A major highlight was a seminar series delivered by Dr. Scandura, covering Renewable Marine Energy from Tides and Waves; Hydromorphodynamics of the Coastal Area; and The Effect of Roughness on Turbulent Flows.
The seminars linked theory to practical applications, including coastal protection and energy harvesting.
Drawing on his work in major European research projects, Dr. Scandura shared perspectives on wave–structure interactions, sediment dynamics, and sustainable coastal development, enriching the academic experience at UniKL MIMET.
The visit also included a field trip to Pantai Tanjung Kepah, where Dr. Scandura observed the ongoing Bamboo Wave Screen (BWS) coastal protection project, developed with national research partners.
The collaboration directly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water), reinforcing UniKL MIMET’s commitment to advancing sustainable marine technology and building resilient coastal futures through global partnerships.
Note: In line with Malaysia’s aspiration to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) continues to strengthen and expand its efforts through various initiatives. This article specifically supports SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water).
