OUM’s ground-breaking research on enhancing manufacturing resilience through a Circular Economy approach has been recognised with the Best Paper Award at the 6th Open Society Conference (OSC 2024). Held at Universitas Terbuka, Indonesia, on 26 September, the event celebrated innovative contributions to addressing global challenges.
A research team from the Faculty of Technology and Applied Sciences (FTAS), under my direction, conducted a comprehensive investigation into the potential of Circular Economy principles to revolutionise the manufacturing sector.
By integrating these principles with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the study proposed a shift from traditional linear economies to a more sustainable, regenerative approach.
Traditional manufacturing processes, which follow the “take, make, dispose” model, often contribute to environmental degradation and resource depletion. Circular Economy, on the other hand, focuses on extending product lifecycles, reducing waste, and improving resource efficiency. The research identified strategies such as recycling, designing products for longevity, remanufacturing, and resource sharing as key to creating a more resilient manufacturing sector.
The research also assessed awareness of Industry 4.0, Circular Economy, and the SDGs. Findings revealed a range of understanding, highlighting the need for enhanced education to prepare future professionals for sustainable manufacturing practices.
By embracing technological innovation, effective waste management, and continuous monitoring, the manufacturing industry can better align with global sustainability objectives. This can significantly reduce their environmental footprint and increase their capacity to withstand economic and ecological disruptions.
This research advocates for a regenerative manufacturing industry that prioritises sustainability. By shifting from a linear to a circular model, industries can reduce their dependency on finite resources and waste production. The team’s framework promotes eco-friendly practices, fostering environmental stewardship, business agility, and market competitiveness.
The recognition from OSC 2024 underscores OUM’s leading role in educating students about critical issues shaping the future of industries worldwide. By promoting awareness of Circular Economy and its alignment with the SDGs, this research provides a blueprint for integrating sustainability into everyday industrial practices.
We are honoured to receive this award, which recognises the efforts of our team, which includes Assoc Prof Dr Thirumeni Subramaniam, Ts Azmi Che Leh, Ts Sharifah Rosfashida Syed Abd Latif, and Ts Dr Azmi Mohamed from FTAS. It also reflects the efforts and capabilities of all OUM lecturers in the field of research.
* Ts Tajuzzaman Hassanor is a lecturer in the Faculty of Technology and Applied Sciences. He can be contacted at tajuzzaman@oum.edu.my.
