Universiti Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Institute of Marine Engineering Technology (UniKL MIMET) strengthened its international research collaboration in artificial intelligence (AI), marine robotics and autonomous underwater technologies through the UniKL Global Research Mobility Programme at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), Taicang Campus, China, from 17 to 23 August 2026.
Representing UniKL MIMET, Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Wardiah Mohd Dahalan from the Marine Electrical & Electronics Engineering Technology Section engaged with researchers from XJTLU’s School of Robotics to explore advanced robotic systems and their applications in sustainable maritime operations.
The research mobility focused on technologies including Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs), Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs), intelligent sensing systems and AI-powered autonomous navigation.
These technologies offer potential solutions for underwater infrastructure inspection, marine environmental monitoring, offshore renewable energy, maritime security and ocean research, contributing to safer and more sustainable maritime operations.
A key highlight was UniKL MIMET’s participation in the ASEAN–XJTLU Embodied Intelligence Strategic Discussion, held on 20 and 21 August 2026.
The discussion brought together XJTLU and representatives from seven ASEAN partner universities to explore opportunities for international research collaboration in intelligent robotics and embodied AI.
Themed “Embodied AI for Real-World Intelligent Robotics: From Research to Deployment,” the engagement explored how AI, robotics, intelligent sensing and autonomous systems could be integrated into practical technological solutions.
Participants also visited research laboratories and facilities showcasing developments in marine, medical and industrial robotics, as well as human–robot interaction and intelligent control technologies.
The engagement contributed to discussions on the proposed establishment of the ASEAN–XJTLU Embodied Intelligence Network, aimed at connecting universities, researchers, students and industry partners across ASEAN and China.
Potential areas of cooperation include joint research publications, international research grants, postgraduate supervision, student and researcher mobility, industry engagement and technology transfer.
The discussions also contributed towards planning for the proposed ASEAN–XJTLU Embodied Intelligence Forum (AXEIF) 2027.
“The mobility provided valuable exposure to advanced robotics, autonomous systems and intelligent sensing technologies while creating opportunities to connect UniKL MIMET’s marine expertise with a wider international research network.
“Such collaboration is important in developing innovative and sustainable technological solutions for future maritime and ocean applications,” said Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Wardiah.
Looking ahead, the programme is expected to support the development of a joint high-impact research publication, an international research grant proposal, an experimental research dataset and a longer-term research collaboration framework.
The knowledge gained could also strengthen postgraduate research, curriculum development and technology-driven teaching and learning at UniKL MIMET.
This international research engagement reflects UniKL’s continued commitment to advancing research innovation, strengthening global academic partnerships and contributing to Malaysia’s sustainable Blue Economy.
The initiative also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, through advancements in intelligent technologies; SDG 14: Life Below Water, through potential applications in sustainable ocean monitoring; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, through ASEAN–China academic and research collaboration.
