By Amirul Salam Hasan, Corporate Communication Office

Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) continues to enhance its international research profile when one of its researchers, Associate Professor Dr. Wan Mohd Afiq Wan Mohd Khalik, was honoured with the Best Presenter Award at the International Conference on Biodiversity, Science and Technology 2026, recently held at Mahasarakham University, Thailand.

At the conference, Associate Professor Dr. Wan Mohd Afiq presented his research on the development of a micro-analytical method for detecting antidepressant residues in water, aimed at strengthening the monitoring of pharmaceutical pollution in aquatic environments. The research was conducted under the Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS) with support from the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia (MOHE).

Commenting on the achievement, he noted that the recognition reflects the increasing international attention given to sustainability-focused research and highlights the quality of research produced by UMT.

“This award recognises the research efforts undertaken, as well as the continuous support provided by UMT and the Ministry of Higher Education in advancing high-impact research,” he said.

The conference, now in its third edition, was organised by the Faculty of Science and the Faculty of Technology of Mahasarakham University and attracted the participation of 150 presenters from various countries, including Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Taiwan, and Japan.

The conference covered a broad range of disciplines, including biodiversity, chemistry and advanced materials, biology, climate change, agriculture and food, applied sciences, as well as data and modelling for sustainability. Participation in such platforms further reinforces UMT’s position as an active and reputable research institution on the global stage.