Category Archives: GIS

Fostering International Geospatial Synergies: Strategic Discussion with Prof. Abbas Rajabifard

Bridging global expertise is essential to advancing spatial data governance and building resilient geospatial ecosystems. I had the privilege of engaging in a highly inspiring initial discussion with Prof. Abbas Rajabifard, from Centre of Spatial Data Infrastructure and Land Administration (CSDILA), Melbourne University, to explore strategic collaborative pathways between our institutions and across borders.

Despite a brief session, the discussion was packed with valuable insights and shared vision from both sides. We explored several key areas of mutual interest:

  • Joint Research Frontiers: Pushing the boundaries of Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI) and analyzing the multi-faceted dimensions of the Geospatial Ecosystem.
  • Capacity Building & Module Development: Co-designing specialized training programs and educational modules to enhance SDI readiness and geospatial application for both nations.
  • Multi-Sector Knowledge Transfer: Ensuring research outcomes directly translate into actionable value for universities, federal and state government bodies, and private sector stakeholders.

Prof. Abbas expressed incredible warmth and optimism for a long-term partnership, emphasizing the valuable perspectives both sides bring to the table.

Looking forward to turning these preliminary ideas into impactful initiatives that empower spatial enablement and benefit our broader community! 🚀

#Geospatial #SpatialDataInfrastructure #SDI #InternationalCollaboration #GeospatialEcosystem #CapacityBuilding #UTM #SpatialEnablement #HigherEducation

Selamat Datang Warga Baharu Geoinformatik: Bermulanya Satu Perjalanan Baru!

Suasana di Fakulti Alam Bina dan Ukur (FABU), UTM kembali meriah dengan kehadiran wajah-wajah baharu yang penuh semangat pada 5 Oktober 2026. Sesi aluan pelajar baharu Program Sarjana Muda Sains Geoinformatik dengan Kepujian kali ini cukup istimewa apabila disambut hangat oleh hampir kesemua rakan pensyarah program.

Seramai lebih kurang 90 orang pelajar baharu dari dalam dan luar negara, termasuk lepasan pelbagai latar belakang diploma, kini rasmi melangkah masuk ke dalam keluarga besar Geoinformatik UTM. Majlis dimulakan dengan kata-kata azimat dan amanat inspirasi daripada Dekan FABU, Ketua Jabatan, serta PM Dr. Faisal.

Seterusnya, Dr. Suzanna Azmy selaku Penyelaras Program memberikan penerangan komprehensif mengenai struktur pengajian dan hala tuju akademik bagi memastikan para pelajar bersedia mengemudi perjalanan mereka. Selepas sesi bergambar beramai-ramai yang merakamkan detik permulaan ini, suasana diteruskan dengan perkongsian yang lebih dekat di hati daripada Presiden Kelab Geoinfo dan alumni program, memberikan gambaran sebenar tentang kehidupan kampus serta realiti kerjaya geospatial.

Melihat kepelbagaian latar belakang dan tenaga positif para pelajar baharu ini memberikan kami di barisan akademik semangat baharu untuk membimbing mereka.

Selamat datang ke UTM, manfaatkan sepenuhnya peluang yang ada, terokai dunia geospatial dengan rasa ingin tahu yang tinggi, dan bina kenangan terindah sepanjang bergelar mahasiswa!

#Geoinformatics#UTMMalaysia#FABU#Geospatial#Freshies2026#HigherEducation#AcademicLife#UniversityLife#GeoinfoFamily

Venturing into New Horizons: Bridging Geospatial Science with Smart Agriculture

For years, my research journey has been deeply rooted in the technical and collaborative dimensions of spatial data sharing—focusing on location intelligence for sustainable housing and biodiversity conservation.

While those domains remain near to my heart, it is time to expand into a new horizon: Smart Farming & Agricultural Sustainability.

Tackling this new frontier means applying proven spatial analytics and data-sharing frameworks to agricultural ecosystems; Precision Planting: Utilizing spatial data to optimize crop placement, soil health monitoring, and resource allocation. Smart Farming Solutions: Integrating data analytics to help growers streamline operations and maximize yield efficiency. Agricultural Sustainability: Driving data-backed strategies to strengthen food security and promote sustainable land management.

Stepping into an unfamiliar domain brings fresh challenges, but applying geospatial tools to real-world agritech is deeply exciting. Looking forward to learning, collaborating with industry partners, and shaping impactful solutions for the future of farming!

#NewHorizons #SmartFarming #Agritech #Geospatial #SpatialDataSharing #PrecisionAgriculture #Sustainability #ResearchImpact #UTM

Stepping Into New Frontiers: Mobilizing Action for World Antarctica Day

Stepping outside my core domain to embrace new challenges, I am excited to share that I have intived to join the organizing committee for one of the program in World Antarctica Day!

Antarctica may seem distant, but its accelerating climate changes directly impact global weather patterns, sea levels, and ecosystems. Currently in the early planning stages, our initiative aims to:

  • Raise Awareness: Unpack the reality and urgency of accelerating climate change.
  • Drive Action: Highlight practical, everyday steps individuals and communities can take to mitigate environmental impact.

Tackling new fields keeps us growing, especially when it centers on protecting our shared planet. Looking forward to shaping this impactful initiative as our plans unfold! This small program will focus on Secondary School Students, in one of the school nearby UTM.

#WorldAntarcticaDay #ClimateAction #Sustainability #NewFrontiers #ContinuousLearning #EnvironmentalAwareness #UTM

Advancing National Security: Integrating GeoAI into Modern Crime Investigation with PDRM 👮‍♂️🌐

Honored to be invited as a speaker at the Seminar Aplikasi AI dalam Siasatan Jenayah Moden dan Keselamatan Negara, organized by Maktab PDRM at Dewan Sultan Ahmad Shah, Maktab PDRM Cheras.

My presentation focused on “Integrasi Kecerdasan Buatan (AI) & GeoAI dalam Siasatan Jenayah & Keselamatan Awam,” exploring how geospatial data paired with artificial intelligence can transform law enforcement and public safety operations.

Key Highlights from the Session:

  • Foundations of GeoAI: Unpacking the synergy between spatial analytics, location intelligence, and artificial intelligence.
  • Why Location Intelligence Matters: Demonstrating how spatial context (“where”) unlocks critical insights beyond traditional data during crime analysis.
  • Real-World Applications: Sharing practical use cases of GeoAI in crime hot-spot mapping, predictive spatial modeling, and resource optimization for public safety.
  • Future Horizons: Outlining strategic directions for adopting next-generation GeoAI tools to bolster national security.

It was an incredible experience engaging with the officers at Maktab PDRM. Sincere thanks to the organizers and leadership for the warm welcome and fruitful discussions. Bridging academic innovation with frontline policing is essential to building a safer, digitally resilient Malaysia.

#GeoAI #AI #NationalSecurity #PDRM #MaktabPDRM #CrimeInvestigation #PublicSafety #Geospatial #LocationIntelligence #SpatialDataScience #UTM

Off to Teluk Gorek – Visiting GIS Training Camp!

Just completed a site visit to the GIS Training Camp (KLGIS) at Teluk Gorek, Mersing!

The KLGIS (GIS Training Camp) program is a crucial field platform for students to translate theoretical knowledge into practical reality. Throughout this camp, they have the opportunity to strengthen their technical skills and gain hands-on experience in various fieldwork processes, including:

🔹 Traverse Surveying 🔹 Detailing 🔹 Airborne Mapping 🔹 LiDAR Technology Applications

Aside from overseeing the smooth execution of the program, the main purpose of my visit was to provide moral support and a boost of encouragement. A massive kudos and congratulations to the dedicated camp facilitators and the resilient students who are braving the challenges of fieldwork out there.

Fieldwork experiences like these are what build the endurance and technical competencies highly sought after by the industry. Keep up the excellent work, and may the knowledge gained at Teluk Gorek leave a lasting impact on your future careers! 🚀🌍

#KLGIS #Geospatial #GIS #Surveying #LiDAR #AirborneMapping #TelukGorek #Mersing #AcademicLife #FutureProfessionals

Empowering Sarawak’s Geospatial Future with the WtCE ToT Session!

Following our successful database validation milestone in Kuching, we have officially moved into the next critical phase: capacity building. We recently successfully conducted an intensive Training of Trainers (ToT) session for the WtCE (Wildlife Tourism and Conservation Ecosystems) Geodatabase!

The core purpose of this ToT was to transition the project from a conceptual framework into a living, breathing ecosystem capable of empowering our strategic partners on the ground.

🔍 Deep-Dives & Architecture Discussions

We kicked off the session by mapping out the strategic landscape of the system—candidly evaluating its strengths and limitations to prepare users for real-world scenarios. We also unpacked the newly refined Class Diagrams and structured the operational guidelines for the database.

To ensure long-term sustainability and robust governance, the WtCE Geodatabase is expected to be securely hosted by Sarawak Information Systems Sdn Bhd (SAINS), featuring a secure architecture accessible exclusively to registered and authorized users.

💻 Practical, Hands-On ArcGIS Pro Mastery

Theoretical knowledge is only as good as its execution. To bridge this gap, the trainers underwent a comprehensive, hands-on technical workshop utilizing ArcGIS Pro. The modules covered essential day-to-day operations, including:

  • Project Management: Effectively opening and configuring ArcGIS Pro workspace environments.
  • Data Navigation: Seamlessly retrieving centralized spatial layers.
  • Data Entry & Editing: Executing precise data entry and modification for both spatial (geographic charts/maps) and non-spatial (attribute data) datasets.

💡 The Ultimate Goal: Maximizing Data Synergy

With this training successfully completed, the ultimate hope is for the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) to fully capitalize on this highly optimized geodatabase structure.

By migrating and populating the system with their rich repository of existing field data, SFC will unlock unprecedented clarity in managing and protecting Sarawak’s wildlife tourism and conservation data.

A massive thank you to all the brilliant participants who brought their dedication and sharp minds to this ToT session. One step closer to a digitally resilient, spatially enabled Sarawak! 🌿💪

#Geospatial #TrainingOfTrainers #ArcGISPro #DataGovernance #SAINS #SFC #WildlifeConservation #Sarawak #Geodatabase #CapacityBuilding #TechForGood

Bridging Research and Reality: Validating the WtCE Geospatial Database in Sarawak

In research, ensuring stakeholder acceptance and real-world applicability is just as critical as the data collection itself. Research must not exist in a vacuum; it needs to be grounded and practical to create a true impact.

As the research grant project titled “Database Development on Socio-economic Management for Wildlife Tourism and Conservation” reaches its final phases, we hit a major milestone: the validation of our newly developed geospatial database design, known as WtCE (Wildlife Tourism and Conservation Ecosystems).

To ensure this database meets actual industry and governance needs, we conducted a comprehensive day-long Focus Group Discussion (FGD) in Kuching, Sarawak, with our key strategic stakeholders: Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC), Land and Survey Department Sarawak (JTS), Sarawak Information Systems Sdn Bhd (SAINS), and Resident’s Office Kuching.

Thanks to the invaluable, hands-on feedback during the FGD, we successfully refined the database architecture—adding crucial data classes and optimizing attributes. These enhancements directly increase the value, scalability, and usability of WtCE for the Sarawak Government in the near future.

What’s Next? 🚀 Our next step is conducting specialized training sessions for these stakeholders. This will empower them to fully utilize the WtCE database, ultimately transforming and streamlining the way geospatial data is managed and shared across agencies in Sarawak.

#Geospatial #DataManagement #WildlifeConservation #EcoTourism #Sarawak #ResearchImpact #DatabaseDesign #FGD #GIS #DataSharing #SmartGovernance

Invited as SME to PGN!

Honored to be invited by the National Geospatial Centre (PGN) as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) to conduct a briefing and knowledge-sharing session on the MS2647 metadata standard. 🗺️📊

This special invitation was part of an initiative to enhance and upgrade the MyGeoportal application, ensuring it aligns with the latest developments of the MS2647 standard.

During the session, we dived deep into the technicalities, and I had the privilege of sharing insights on understanding MS2647, the key components in the standard, the 4 main parts in this documents, understanding and aligning the main document information, with information in Annex B and Annex C.

  • Understanding MS2647: Breaking down the core framework and requirements of the standard.
  • Implementation Strategies: Practical approaches to adopting the standard effectively.

I hope this sharing session provides a clear and actionable roadmap for the PGN team, ultimately contributing to a more robust, standardized, and efficient MyGDI improvement.

Looking forward to seeing the new and improved MyGeoportal in action! 🚀

#SubjectMatterExpert #Geospatial #Metadata #MS2647 #MyGeoportal #PGN #DataStandardization #KnowledgeSharing #GIS #AcademicInsights

A Proud Supervisor Moment! 🌟 Celebrating ‘Pasukan Five Hundred’ at the ASEAN Geospatial Challenge 2026

I am incredibly honored and proud to share that my students—representing Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)—have been awarded the prestigious Certificate of Merit at the recent ASEAN Geospatial Challenge 2026!

It has been an absolute privilege to help this dedicated team, Pasukan Five Hundred. Guiding them through the intensive preparation process, watching them brainstorm, refine their technical concepts, and push their limits to innovate sustainable geospatial solutions has been a truly inspiring journey for me.

Join me in congratulating these brilliant minds:

  • Nur Farihan binti Abd Rahim (PhD in Geoinformatics)
  • Mohd Nizar bin Hashim (PhD in Geoinformatics)
  • Muhammad Hanis bin Rashidan (PhD in Geoinformatics)
  • Nurul Asyiqin binti Mohd Salleh (Master in Geoinformatics)

Your hard work, perseverance, and teamwork have truly paid off. This ASEAN-level recognition is just the beginning of your bright futures in the geospatial industry. The Faculty of Built Environment and Surveying (FABU) and I are beyond proud of your achievement!

Let’s keep innovating and driving impactful solutions for a better tomorrow. 🗺️💡

#UTM #Geoinformatics #ASEANGeospatialChallenge #ProudSupervisor #Geospatial #InnovatingSustainableSolutions #TeamSuccess #AcademicJourney #FABU #Malaysia