USM Represents Malaysia in Bid to Host ICNIRS 2029

The School of Physics, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) proudly represented Malaysia in the official bid to host the International Conference on Near Infrared Spectroscopy (ICNIRS) 2029, during the ICNIRS 2025 conference held in Rome, Italy from 9–12 June 2025.

Led by Associate Professor Dr. Ahmad Fairuz Omar and Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Mahadi Halim, the Malaysian delegation presented a comprehensive proposal to bring the prestigious scientific conference to Penang. The presentation highlighted Malaysia’s strengths in scientific research, conference infrastructure, and cultural hospitality. It was further supported by Dr. Margaret Anak Abat (Department of Agriculture Sarawak) and Ms. Petronella G. Ah Tung (Applied Agricultural Resources Sdn. Bhd.).

Although the bid was ultimately awarded to Belgium, the Malaysian proposal received strong positive feedback and showcased USM’s commitment to international collaboration and scientific excellence. The delegation also actively participated in the ICNIRS Educational Committee meeting and engaged in meaningful networking with global leaders in Near Infrared Spectroscopy.

This experience marks a significant step forward in positioning Malaysia as a future host for major international scientific events and reinforces USM’s role in the global research community.

During the event, Associate Professor Dr. Ahmad Fairuz Omar, a member of the ICNIRS Educational Committee, attended the committee meeting held on 9 June 2025 at 4:30 PM in Rome. The meeting focused on strategies to further promote educational activities related to Near Infrared Spectroscopy among member countries. The meeting was also attended by Professor Dr. Lola Pérez-Marín (Spain), former Committee President and outgoing ICNIRS President, as well as Professor Tom Fearn (United Kingdom), who has assumed the role of the new President of the Educational Committee. The discussion highlighted the need for expanded outreach, collaborative training initiatives, and the development of new educational resources for the global ICNIRS community.