Multidisciplinary Applied Research and Innovation
The is an open access, peer-reviewed and refereed Periodical published by Center of Diploma Studies (CeDS), Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM). The main objective of MARI is to provide an intellectual platform for sharing product research and empowering publications from CeDS. MARI aims to promote multidisciplinary studies and become the leading Periodical in multidisciplinary applied research and innovation in UTHM. MARI publishes original papers, review papers, conceptual framework, analytical and simulation models, case studies, empirical research, technical notes, and book reviews. Authors are expected to submit a full-length manuscript (6 pages minimum - 10 pages maximum) for publication. Only papers received according to publication guidelines and timelines will be published in the MARI. This peer reviews journal seeks to publish THREE (3) issues annually. MARI is seeking research papers related (but not limited) to the following topics; Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Sciences, Chemical Engineering Technology, Animation Technology and Information Technology.
Access to affordable and sustainable laundry solutions remains a significant challenge in off-grid regions and resource-constrained environments. Conventional washing machines are energy-intensive and expensive, while traditional manual washing is physically taxing and time-consuming. This study details the design and development of a portable pedal-powered washing machine, utilizing recyclable materials and an ergonomic structure to enhance user accessibility. The methodology involved mechanical design optimization followed by a comparative performance analysis against manual washing methods. Results indicate that the prototype effectively reduces physical strain and operational costs while maintaining cleaning efficiency without electrical dependency. Ultimately, this machine serves as a viable, eco-friendly alternative that promotes sustainable living and improved user well-being in diverse populations.
Human-powered Mechanics for Off-grid Laundry
Copyright (c) 2026 Multidisciplinary Applied Research and Innovation
Design and Development of a Portable Solar-Powered Water Purification System with Automated Multi-Stage Filtration for Off-Grid Application
Access to clean drinking water is a significant challenge in remote areas, where traditional treatment systems often struggle due to their reliance on electricity and high costs. This study introduces a compact solar-powered water purification system designed for sustainable and portable clean water production. The system features solar photovoltaic panels, a lithium-ion battery, and a multi-stage filtration unit with reverse osmosis and activated carbon filters to remove contaminants, including heavy metals and microorganisms. A simplified automation system with a float switch sensor and manual override helps manage pump operation and prevent overflow. An energy management system ensures a stable power supply despite varying solar conditions. Testing demonstrated significant improvements in water quality, confirming the system's effectiveness. Cost analysis suggests that this prototype is a low-cost, energy-efficient solution for rural areas. In conclusion, the solar-powered water purification system offers a practical approach to improving water access in underserved communities.
The Grass Ninja 220 Chopper Machine was developed as a practical solution to real-world challenges faced by small-scale farmers and rural livestock owners, especially in the preparation of animal feed. Traditional grass cutting methods using machetes or sickles are time-consuming, physically exhausting, and produce uneven cuts that affect animal digestion and lead to feed waste. On the other hand, commercial grass chopper machines are often too expensive, heavy, and unsuitable for home-based or small-scale use. To address these challenges, this study proposes a low-cost, compact, and energy-efficient chopper machine made from recycled components, including a 220 W washing machine motor and an 18 plastic bucket as the chopping chamber. The system features a dual-blade configuration with an additional booster blade to enhance internal circulation and cutting efficiency. Several performance tests were conducted, including cutting comparison between wet and dry grass, blade configuration analysis, and one-cycle chopping time. Results showed that the machine consistently produced grass lengths between 2 cm to 5 cm which ideal for goat digestion, with the most efficient and uniform results achieved using the dual-blade and booster blade combination. The machine operated on household electricity, showed minimal vibration, and did not overheat during testing. In conclusion, the Grass Ninja 220 Chopper Machine successfully addresses the issues of manual labor and feed waste, while promoting low-cost, sustainable engineering. Its use of recycled parts, low power consumption, and suitability for local fabrication align with green engineering principles and highlight its potential for community-based agricultural improvement.
Tuan Mohd Hafeez Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Ibrahim
Ekonomi gig yang merujuk kepada sistem yang pekerjaannya bersifat sementara atau sambilan yang kini kian berkembang hari demi hari. Pelbagai pekerjaan di bawah ekonomi gig ini dan diantaranya ialah penghantar makanan. Telefon pintar adalah alatan utama yang digunakan oleh rakan penghantar untuk menyelesaikan tugasan. Tujuan pembangunan projek ini adalah bertujuan untuk menyelesaikan masalah yang dihadapi seperti kapasiti telefon pintar yang terhad. Projek ini terdiri daripada tiga fasa kejuruteraan dalam pembangunan projek. Tiga fasa iaitu mengenalpasti masalah, melakar reka bentuk dan juga pengiraan. Beg ini berfungsi apabila adanya cahaya matahari untuk mengecas bateri di dalam beg yang akan menyimpan tenaga ketika cuaca mendung, hujan atau pada waktu malam. Dengan adanya inovasi ini maka terhasil sebuah beg yang dilengkapi dengan sistem solar yang dijadikan sebagai tenaga alternatif untuk rakan penghantar. Secara keseluruhannya, projek ini telah mencapai objektif kajian. Namun begitu, masih terdapat ruang untuk penambahbaikan dalam reka bentuk produk dan penggunaan aplikasi.
During tennis training sessions, large numbers of balls are dispersed and must be retrieved quickly to maximize practice efficiency; however, existing retrieval tools are often either manually operated and physically demanding or mechanically powered, bulky, and non-portable. To address these challenges, a Foldable Tennis Ball Picker was designed and developed for individual players and training facilities using a systematic product design process that translated user needs into product specifications and screened alternative designs via a weighted rating method. Performance testing revealed that the prototype consistently outperformed manual collection, achieving an average retrieval time of 7.58 seconds and providing an average time saving of 2.26 seconds per test. The device features a ball storage compartment with a 70-ball capacity and an integrated folding mechanism that reduces storage volume by more than 50%. Structural durability was confirmed by rolling the picker over court surfaces more than 500 times, during which the aluminum frame and joints remained secure and perfectly aligned. Collectively, these results demonstrate that the foldable ball picker successfully supports efficient retrieval, minimizes physical strain, and offers a compact, cost-effective solution suitable for various tennis training contexts.
Muhammad Izzad Asyraf Jamaludin Jamaludin
MyIsyARat: Bridging Communication Gaps through Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM) with Augmented Reality (AR)
Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM) is the primary visual language of the Malaysian Deaf community, yet it remains underrepresented in mainstream education and digital platforms. To address this gap, MyIsyARat was developed, i.e., an augmented reality (AR)-based mobile application designed to support interactive and engaging BIM learning. Using the Multimedia Development Life Cycle (MDLC) model, the app features 3D animated signs across three key themes: Kata Ganti Nama (Pronouns), Ucapan (Greetings), and Keluarga (Family). User testing involving diverse participants showed strong positive feedback, with average mean scores of 4.57 for App Usability, 4.66 for Content Quality, and 4.65 for Engagement and Learning Experience. These results indicate high levels of user satisfaction and acceptance. More than just a learning tool, MyIsyARat fosters inclusivity, promotes empathy, and supports communication between Deaf and hearing communities, moving one step closer to language equity in Malaysia.
AI Literasi Interaktif Bahasa Melayu (ALIM) Menggunakan Teknologi “Voice to Text Matching”
Bahasa Melayu merupakan bahasa kebangsaan yang mencerminkan identiti budaya dan perlu dimartabatkan. Namun begitu, rekod pada tahun 2024 menunjukkan seramai 175,394 orang murid tahun akhir sekolah rendah (13 peratus) didapati masih lemah dalam kemahiran literasi Bahasa Melayu. Situasi ini menuntut pelaksanaan pendekatan latihan literasi yang lebih konsisten, interaktif, dan berkesan. Tanpa intervensi yang sewajarnya, kelemahan ini berisiko menjejaskan perkembangan literasi mereka secara menyeluruh. Oleh hal yang demikian, teknologi Voice to Text Matching dilihat sebagai satu inovasi yang berpotensi besar untuk menangani isu ini. Kelebihan utama teknologi ini termasuklah keupayaannya untuk meningkatkan kefasihan dan ketepatan sebutan, menggalakkan pembelajaran kendiri, serta menyediakan laporan kemajuan membaca secara masa nyata. Walaupun terdapat pelbagai aplikasi pembelajaran membaca di pasaran, sebahagian besarnya masih belum mengintegrasikan kecerdasan buatan (AI) yang bercirikan Voice to Text Matching. Bagi mengisi kelompongan ini, projek ALIM dibangunkan dengan mengadaptasi teknologi pengecaman suara (Speech Recognition) dan padanan suara kepada teks (Voice to Text Matching) berasaskan AI untuk menilai tahap literasi membaca kanak-kanak. Berteraskan metodologi Agile, ALIM direka bentuk sebagai sebuah aplikasi mudah alih interaktif yang turut menjana laporan kemajuan bacaan bagi membantu guru melaksanakan penilaian yang lebih sistematik 4. Hasil pengujian mendapati 90.0% kanak-kanak dan 93.3% guru bersetuju bahawa aplikasi ALIM terbukti berkesan dalam meningkatkan pemahaman serta kemahiran membaca.
Pembangunan Aplikasi Sensor Arus dengan Amaran Lebihan Beban
Sistem pemantauan arus elektrik penting untuk memastikan litar terlindung daripada kerosakan dan risiko litar pintas yang berpunca daripada lebihan arus. Peningkatan penggunaan peranti elektronik di rumah dan premis kecil membawa kepada risiko beban berlebihan tanpa disedari. Justeru, projek ini dibangunkan bertujuan untuk memberi amaran awal dan perlindungan automatik kepada pengguna. Sistem menggunakan mikropengawal ESP32 bersama sensor ACS712 untuk memantau arus secara masa nyata. Komponen seperti relay, LED, paparan LCD serta aplikasi Blynk digabungkan untuk memberikan notifikasi dan memutuskan litar secara automatik. Ujian simulasi dan perkakasan menunjukkan sistem bertindak balas kurang dari satu saat selepas lebihan arus dikesan. Sistem ini berfungsi dengan ketepatan yang memuaskan dan berpotensi ditambah baik dengan integrasi platform komunikasi lain.
Interactive Math Adventures for Primary Students (IMAPS)
Mathematics is one of the core subjects for primary school students but still there are many students lacks of confidence and engagement that lead to poor learning outcomes. This lead us to develop Interactive Math Adventures for Primary Students (IMAPS), an adventure-based interactive web game designed using Unity and C# to teach basic math concepts through gaming challenge concepts. IMAPS features a knight versus monster battle system in which a correct answer allows students to attack the monster while the wrong answer allows the monster to attack their character; it motivates the students to solve the problems across 30 levels. Features that are included in the game are statistics tracking,progress monitoring, and understanding of basic arithmetic operations. Evaluation results indicate that IMAPS effectively improves student engagement and understanding of basic arithmetic operations. In future, enhancement will focus on expanding the content scope and improving adaptive learning to further personalise the educational experience.
The objective of this project is to develop a smart itinerary planning system called Travify to assist users in managing their travel plans in a centralized platform. Many users face challenges using multiple tools like notes, calendars, and maps to organize trips, which often leads to disorganization and missed details. Travify solves this by offering key features such as itinerary creation, budget tracking, destination management, and profile customization. The system uses real-time APIs, user-generated content, and cloud integration for better performance and accessibility. Travify was developed using the Agile methodology, involving iterative development cycles and regular feedback loops to ensure continuous improvement. The front end was built using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, while the backend was implemented with PHP and a MySQL database for data management. Functionality was validated through unit testing, integration testing, and user testing. Feedback from testing revealed improved usability and convenience. Travify aims to simplify planning, enhance personalization, and ensure a seamless travel experience for all users.
Maintaining proper restroom cleanliness is crucial for ensuring hygiene and comfort in heavily frequented areas, particularly university campuses. Traditional management approaches for restroom maintenance is generally dependent on manual reporting mechanisms and rigid cleaning schedules. It is unfortunate that, this frequently results in maintenance delays, inconsistent campus cleanliness standards, and a lack of realtime monitoring capabilities. This project aims to develop a mobile application called "SparkTrack" to improve restroom maintenance at UTHM Pagoh block A1 by enabling issue reporting, task tracking, and have high supervision. The methodology used was the Multimedia Development Life Cycle (MDLC), which included stages like Concept, Design, Material Gathering, Assembly, Testing, and Distribution. The application was created with Android Studio using Java and using backed by Firebase Realtime Database for operative data management. 10 selective users were tested to show improved response time, better task organization and high user satisfaction. Through key associations, SparkTrack offers a solution to UTHM pagoh campus regarding hygiene issues by enhancing accountability, efficiency, and sustainability through mobile application technology.
CompARch: Integrated Augmented Reality Computer Architecture Learning App
This report discusses the development of an application with integrated Augmented Reality (AR) that is designed to help students learn about computer architecture. Many students find it hard to understand complex concepts using traditional teaching methods, which often rely on textbooks and flat diagrams. The AR application aims to provide interactive 3D models of computer components, making learning more engaging. The project followed a structured approach called the ADDIE model, which includes analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. Initial testing showed that students who used the AR application reported better understanding and increased interest in the subject. The report concludes that AR technology can improve learning in the computer architecture subject and suggests further work to enhance the application and expand its content.
Nik Mohd Nasrul Hakimi Nik Mohd Kamaruzaman
Pengurusan sisa makanan yang sistematik amat penting bagi mengekalkan kebersihan, kelestarian persekitaran, serta kecekapan operasi di premis makanan berskala besar seperti kafeteria. Kaedah konvensional, iaitu pengguna membuang sisa makanan ke dalam tong sampah sebelum meletakkan pinggan di besen, sering menimbulkan pencemaran bau, menarik serangga perosak, dan mendedahkan sisa makanan kepada persekitaran terbuka. Bagi mengatasi masalah ini, sebuah Mesin Pengasingan Sisa Makanan direka bentuk dengan mekanisme mudah tetapi berkesan. Pinggan kotor dimasukkan melalui slot khas, di mana sisa makanan akan ditolak secara automatik oleh bilah pengikis ke dalam bekas sisa tertutup. Pinggan kemudiannya bergerak menuruni landasan dan tersusun rapi di rak bawah mesin, bersedia untuk dibawa ke ruang pembasuhan. Ujian perbandingan antara kaedah manual dan mesin ini dijalankan berdasarkan lima kriteria: penyelenggaraan, kebersihan, praktikaliti, mesra pengguna, dan mesra pekerja. Hasilnya menunjukkan mesin ini mengurangkan risiko pencemaran, mempercepat proses pengumpulan pinggan, serta meningkatkan ergonomik kerja pekerja. Oleh itu, mesin pengasingan sisa makanan ini merupakan alternatif yang lebih praktikal dan lestari untuk pengurusan sisa makanan di kafeteria berkapasiti tinggi.
Copyright (c) 2025 Multidisciplinary Applied Research and Innovation
Food waste is a major environmental problem that contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and causes landfill overflow. In Malaysia, poor waste management at home leads to traditional harmful disposal methods like dumping and burning. In other hand, composting presents a sustainable solution by turning organic waste into nutrient-rich fertilizer; however, traditional composting methods is timely and require a lot of effort. This project aims to create a Mini Food Waste Composter Machine that automates the shredding and mixing processes for small users such as households and small cafes. The system combines mechanical, electrical, and control parts with a MOTION 2350 Pro microcontroller, a stainless-steel shredder, and a static mixer to enhance the composting process. Evaluation tests with 300 grams of food waste showed that soft waste was completely processed in 20 to 30 seconds, while fibrous waste took longer. While full automation was not achievable due to mechanical constraints, the semi-automated system worked well. In conclusion, this project offers a practical, low-cost, and sustainable solution for managing organic waste on a small scale.
Evaluating the Efficiency of Wastepaper Activated Carbon in Palm Oil Wastewater Treatment
With the global demand for palm oil on the rise, palm oil mills are generating more secondary effluent (POMSE), a waste product that’s rich in organic matter and poses serious environmental concerns. To help tackle this issue, this study investigated using activated carbon made from wastepaper (WPAC) as a green, low-cost way to treat wastewater. The WPAC was created through a chemical process using potassium hydroxide (KOH), involving several steps, which are soaking the paper, drying it, carbonizing it at 600 °C under argon gas, washing it with acid, and finally heating it again to improve its porosity and reactivity. We tested five different amounts of WPAC, ranging from 0.5g to 2.5 g, to see how well it could improve water quality, focusing on colour, turbidity and pH levels. The 2.5 g dose gave the best results for colour, reducing it from 2030 to 493 ADMI. For turbidity, the clearest result is 12.01 NTU at 1.5 g. Interestingly, WPAC also made the water more alkaline, with the highest pH of 9.7 recorded at 2.5 g. To understand how WPAC works, we used FTIR to detect active functional groups responsible for adsorbing pollutants, and SEM to observe its porous surface. Among all the masses, 2.5 g proved the most effective overall, delivering strong results in colour and turbidity reduction, along with a noticeable shift in pH. This study shows that WPAC is not just a clever way to recycle wastepaper. It also offers a practical, eco-friendly solution for treating the palm oil industry.
AC Power Controller with a Programmable Interface
This project presents the development of a programmable AC power controller to enhance energy efficiency, safety, and user convenience. The system enables precise control over AC loads by utilizing the ESP32 microcontroller, a TRIAC, an optoisolator, and a user-friendly interface comprising a keypad, LCD, potentiometer, and a mobile application. Users can adjust brightness or power output manually or remotely via the Blynk app over Wi-Fi. Integrating a firing angle control mechanism allows for effective modulation of AC power. Preliminary testing demonstrates accurate performance in regulating the brightness of a tungsten filament bulb, with the system built under a cost constraint of RM100. The results highlight the system’s scalability for applications in smart homes and industrial settings. Future enhancements include IoT-based data monitoring, AI-driven optimization, and renewable energy integration.
Lintasan Pejalan Kaki Pintar Menggunakan Arduino
Projek ini membangunkan satu sistem lintasan pejalan kaki pintar menggunakan teknologi Arduino bagi meningkatkan keselamatan pengguna jalan raya, khususnya di kawasan lintasan zebra. Sistem ini direka bentuk untuk mengesan kehadiran pejalan kaki secara automatik menggunakan penderia pergerakan (PIR) dan seterusnya mengaktifkan lampu isyarat serta palang automatik yang dikawal oleh motor servo. Dengan adanya sistem ini, kenderaan akan diberi amaran untuk berhenti apabila pejalan kaki melintas, sekali gus mengurangkan risiko kemalangan. Projek ini menggunakan komponen elektronik utama seperti Arduino Uno, LED, motor servo, dan breadboard untuk membina prototaip sistem yang berfungsi secara automatik dan responsif. Hasil pengujian menunjukkan bahawa sistem ini mampu bertindak balas dengan pantas terhadap pergerakan pejalan kaki dan mengawal lalu lintas dengan lebih cekap. Secara keseluruhannya, sistem lintasan pejalan kaki pintar ini dapat meningkatkan keselamatan dan kelancaran trafik, terutama pada waktu puncak. Cadangan masa hadapan termasuk penggunaan sensor yang lebih canggih dan integrasi dengan sistem trafik bandar pintar.
An Intelligent Weather System for Outdoor Clothes Drying
This project introduces an Intelligent Weather System designed to automate the outdoor clothes drying process, especially in tropical climates like Malaysia, where rain is frequent and unpredictable. The system utilizes an ESP32 microcontroller, rain sensor, and servo motor to detect rain and respond automatically by covering the clothes rack. Integrated with the Blynk IoT platform, users receive real-time updates and control options via a smartphone. Testing showed the system worked well in simulation and individual component tests, although the physical prototype faced power issues. This project demonstrates the potential of automation and IoT in household applications, offering convenience and protection against unexpected weather.
RFID Asset Monitoring Laboratory Environment
This project deals with developing a smart lab equipment management system using RFID and IoT technologies. Presently, various educational institutions use manual logbooks or outdated systems to keep track of valuable tools like multimeters and oscilloscopes, which creates room for potential loss, misuse, or improper resource management. The system, therefore, aims to cater to those inconveniences by automating the borrowing and return of lab equipment through RFID tags and an ESP32 microcontroller. Each event is logged in real time into a cloud database, and Telegram notifications are sent out for overdue alerts and unauthorized activities. The system performed well in tests and was proven to be fully accurate and responsive when managing equipment data. It greatly reduces human error and helps maintain responsibility while giving a scalable solution to modern labs. In brief, RFID and IoT technologies found a real-time asset tracking and monitoring solution in this project.
Alat Pengesanan Kelembapan dan Suhu Tanah
Projek ini membangunkan sebuah sistem pintar bagi memantau kelembapan dan suhu tanah menggunakan mikropengawal ESP32 serta teknologi Internet of Things (IoT). Sistem ini direka untuk membantu pengguna memantau keadaan tanah tanaman secara masa nyata melalui aplikasi Blynk, dengan data turut dipaparkan pada skrin OLED. Sensor kelembapan tanah dan sensor suhu DHT11 digunakan untuk mendapatkan bacaan persekitaran, manakala pam air dan buzzer diaktifkan secara automatik apabila nilai bacaan melebihi atau menurun daripada paras ditetapkan. Sistem juga menyokong kawalan manual melalui telefon pintar. Hasil pengujian menunjukkan sistem ini berfungsi dengan baik, responsif, dan mudah digunakan. Projek ini berpotensi untuk digunakan dalam penjagaan tanaman berskala kecil hingga sederhana secara lebih cekap dan efisien.
‘Fasting’ during the month of Ramadan is a fundamental obligation in Islam. However, due to unavoidable circumstances such as illness, menstruation, travel, or pregnancy, Muslims may miss their fasts and are required to perform ‘qada fasting’ or pay ‘fidyah’. Many individuals face difficulties in tracking missed fasts and accurately calculating fidyah payments. To address this issue, the Q’FAST – Qada Fasting Mobile Application was developed to assist the Muslim community in managing their ‘fasting’ obligations more effectively. The application enables users to record missed and completed fasts, calculate fidyah based on official state rates in Malaysia, and access educational information related to ‘fasting’ practices. The system was developed using Flutter and Firebase, following the Waterfall methodology to ensure a structured development process. A usability evaluation was conducted using the UMUX (Usability Metric for User Experience) questionnaire involving 10 users. The results indicate high user satisfaction and system performance, with satisfaction and efficiency achieving 98%, while effectiveness and ease of use recorded 96%. These findings demonstrate that the application is user-friendly, efficient, and capable of supporting users in managing their ‘qada fasting’ responsibilities. In conclusion, the Q’FAST mobile application provides a practical and accessible solution for tracking fasting obligations, improving record-keeping, and enhancing users’ awareness and consistency in fulfilling their religious duties.
Evaluation of Mordanting Methods and Natural Dye Extraction from Mangosteen Peel for Fibre-Dyeing Applications Using Different Solvents
Developing textile dyeing processes using natural products such as fruits is one way to promote sustainability in manufacturing. This research focuses on extracting natural dyes from mangosteen (Garnicia mangostana L.) peel waste for cotton fabric dyeing. The extraction was carried out using four different solvent systems: distilled water, 50% ethanol, 1% citric acid, and a mixture of 50% ethanol with 1% citric acid. Among these, ethanol yielded the highest anthocyanin content at 193.9 ppm, followed by ethanol + citric acid at 174.6 ppm, citric acid at 64.2 ppm, and distilled water at 48.8 ppm. The purpose of testing different solvents was to evaluate their effectiveness in extracting natural dyes from mangosteen peels. Extraction was performed using the air-drying method for all four solvents, followed by a mordanting process with zinc sulfate through three approaches: pre-mordanting, simultaneous mordanting, and post-mordanting. To confirm the presence of anthocyanins in mangosteen peel, UV-Vis and FTIR spectroscopy analyses were conducted. To assess colour fastness, two tests were performed: washing fastness and light fastness under sunlight. The vibrancy score for post-mordanting with ethanol was the highest at 22.8, indicating brighter and more attractive dyeing on cotton fabric. However, in terms of light fastness, pre-mordanting with distilled water and ethanol performed best, with scores of 8.37 and 9.11, respectively. Overall, post-mordanting with ethanol demonstrated superior dye absorption and colour vibrancy, while pre-mordanting provided greater resistance to colour fading under sunlight.
River Water Quality Analysis Using RO Filtration
This study focuses on the analysis of river water quality before and after undergoing filtration using a 5-stage reverse osmosis (RO) system. Access to clean and safe drinking water is essential for maintaining public health and quality of life. However, many communities face challenges due to polluted river sources, limited municipal water treatment, and dependence on bottled water. The water samples were evaluated based on key physicochemical parameters including Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Electrical Conductivity (EC), pH, and physical characteristics such as appearance and smell. The filtered river water was also compared to commercial mineral water and municipal tap water to assess overall quality. From the result, it shows that the quality of filtered river water was improved. Unlike complex or energy-intensive treatment systems, this study highlights the effectiveness of a basic RO-based setup for field or domestic applications. By providing practical data and a comparison with standard water sources, this study promotes awareness of filtered river water as a reliable alternative and contributes to improving safe water access in rural or backup scenarios.
Flash floods pose a significant threat in urban areas, particularly in underground parking structures and basements, where rapid water accumulation can lead to severe damage to vehicles, electrical systems, and infrastructure. These events often occur without warning, triggered by heavy rainfall, blocked drainage, or overflowing water sources. To address this challenge, a Smart Water Level Detection System was developed using Internet of Things (IoT) technology to enable real-time monitoring and early warning alerts. The system’s main objective is to detect rising water levels promptly and notify users before critical levels are reached. It integrates two water level sensor switches and an ultrasonic sensor to classify water depth into three categories: Low (0–4 cm), Minimum (4–7 cm), and Maximum (above 8 cm). A NodeMCU ESP8266 microcontroller processes the data collected from the sensors and connects to Wi-Fi for remote communication. Notifications are sent to the user’s smartphone through the Telegram messaging app, while local alerts are provided using a buzzer and OLED screen, offering immediate audible and visual feedback. The system was tested under various simulated water conditions, and the results confirmed accurate detection and reliable responses at all levels. Telegram notifications were received within 1 to 7 seconds depending on the network connection, while the buzzer and OLED screen responded instantly. At the Maximum water level, a high-alert message was triggered alongside buzzer activation. These outcomes validate the system’s efficiency, speed, and suitability for flood-prone environments. By providing both local and remote alerts, this smart system enhances urban flood preparedness, minimizes property damage, and enables faster emergency responses in underground spaces.
Sistem Pengasingan Sampah Menggunakan Raspberry Pi
Projek ini bertujuan untuk membangunkan sistem pengasingan sampah automatik berkos rendah yang menggunakan mikropengawal RP2040 pada papan Raspberry Pi untuk mengesan serta mengasingkan bahan kitar semula jenis plastik dan logam. Sistem menggabungkan sensor logam induktif, sensor ultrasonik dan motor servo bagi memindahkan objek ke bekas yang betul secara automatik. Prototaip dihasilkan bertujuan meningkatkan kecekapan proses pengasingan sampah, mengurangkan kos operasi manual dan menyokong amalan kitar semula di peringkat domestik serta perniagaan berskala kecil. Pengujian menggunakan 20 sampel menunjukkan kadar ketepatan pengesanan logam sebanyak 100% manakala ketepatan pengasingan plastik pula adalah 90%. Sistem ini boleh beroperasi sehingga 8 jam menggunakan pek bateri 7.4 V 6800 mAh. Secara keseluruhannya, projek ini berjaya membuktikan bahawa sistem pengasingan sampah automatik berasaskan mikropengawal RP2040 mampu berfungsi dengan cekap dan berkesan dalam mengesan serta mengasingkan bahan kitar semula. Projek ini menghasilkan prototaip sistem pengasingan sampah automatik berasaskan RP2040 yang memenuhi semua objektif ditetapkan dan berupaya mengurangkan kebergantungan kepada kaedah manual.
Performance Evaluation of Activated Carbon Produced from Post-Consumer Paper for Wastewater Treatment
Sustainably reusing waste materials offers promising solutions to environmental issues, particularly in the treatment of wastewater. In this study, the performance of activated carbon (AC) made from post-consumer paper in treating wastewater was evaluated using two chemical agents, potassium hydroxide (KOH) and zinc chloride (ZnCl₂), at varying concentrations. The AC was characterized by examining chemical modifications and surface functional groups using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Treated wastewater was analyzed for biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), turbidity and pH levels to evaluate the efficiency of the activated carbon. The results showed that ZnCl₂ (1.0 M) achieved the lowest BOD (1.90 mg/L), turbidity (0.21 NTU), and near-neutral pH (7.6), while KOH (1.5 M) resulted in a BOD of 2.10 mg/L and the highest pH of 11.32. Among the two activating agents used, ZnCl₂ showed better performance in treating wastewater compared to KOH. These findings demonstrated the potential of wastepaper as a practical precursor for AC, which could support environmentally friendly water treatment methods and efficient waste disposal.
The Effect of Online Gaming on Social Skills Development Among UTHM Students
Online games are becoming more popular among students in higher learning institutions, or public universities, such as Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM). Online games serve as a medium of entertainment as well as a platform for social interaction in a virtual space. However, there is a concern that online gaming may alter students' social skills in the real world, notably in terms of communication and collaboration. Social skills are how a person can interact with other people effectively in different situations; social skills also play a key role when an individual is looking to achieve academic, professional, or career success. For the case of students, face-to-face interaction can form self-confidence, build leadership, and teamwork abilities, while an online game perspective may align players to interact in a virtual environment where the opportunities to create and build social skills are diminished. This research study was conducted to identify the impact of online games on students' social skills, specifically on UTHM diploma students’ communication and teamwork skills. A questionnaire instrument was used to collect data and was conducted on a total of 301 students to collect responses. Respondents were selected based on the Krejcie and Morgan table. Data analysis was completed using SPSS, and the Pearson correlation and independent t-test were utilized. Results of this study indicate that there is relationship between online gaming and social skills students, which is the correlation is 0.280, 0.426, and 0.227 and gamers show significantly higher social skills than non-gamers. Also, the result for sample independent t-test of section 2 is 0.001 and section 3 is <0.001.
Sugarcane is a vital agricultural commodity widely used for sugar production and popular consumption, particularly in Southeast Asia where sugarcane juice is a culturally significant beverage. Traditional manual peeling of sugarcane, performed with knives, is labor-intensive, time-consuming, and poses safety risks to operators, especially small-scale vendors. This project presents the design, development, and testing of the Sugarcane Peel Pro, an automatic sugarcane peeling machine aimed at improving efficiency, safety, and sustainability for local vendors. The machine features a stainless-steel rotary blade powered by a 0.75 hp motor operating at 850 rpm, housed within a sturdy mild steel frame with ergonomic design elements such as a hand-fed slot, pressure rollers, and protective blade covers. It accommodates sugarcane stalks up to 30 mm in diameter, peeling each stalk within 45 to 60 seconds with an efficiency of 85% to 90%, while consuming low power (0.5 to 0.75 kWh). Manufactured through precision machining and MIG welding processes, the machine demonstrated reliable performance during testing, with smooth operation, stable blade balance, and effective safety features. While limitations remain regarding stalk shape adaptability and reliance on electricity, the Sugarcane Peel Pro effectively reduces labor intensity, enhances user safety, and minimizes material waste, providing a practical and cost-effective solution for small-scale sugarcane juice vendors. This innovation supports social and economic sustainability by promoting safer working conditions and increased productivity within local agricultural processing industries.
ResumeXpert: An Intelligent Platform for Ranking and Optimizing Job Applications
In today’s competitive job market, crafting a compelling resume is essential, particularly for fresh graduates and job seekers with limited experience. ResumeXpert is an AI-powered web-based platform designed to assist users in creating optimized resumes that align closely with job descriptions. The system analyzes uploaded resumes, provides personalized formatting, keyword usage, and skills alignment feedback, and recommends suitable job listings from integrated platforms such as LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and JobStreet. ResumeXpert also features a resume ranking function, enabling recruiters to assess multiple applications efficiently. Developed using the Agile methodology, the system incorporates natural language processing (NLP), machine learning techniques, and modern web technologies. User survey evaluation demonstrated high satisfaction levels in usability, functionality, and overall usefulness. ResumeXpert offers an innovative approach to bridging the gap between job seekers and employers by enhancing resume quality and improving job-matching outcomes.