The Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Airlangga (FPK UNAIR), reaffirmed its commitment to global academic collaboration by hosting a guest lecture featuring Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Wan Abd Al-Qadr Imad Wan Mohtar on Monday, 4 August 2026. The event highlighted the role of microorganisms and fungi as alternative and sustainable feed sources for aquatic fish, offering students fresh scientific insights into environmentally responsible aquaculture practices. The program also marked a significant step in strengthening institutional ties between FPK UNAIR and the University of Malaya, in line with the global agenda of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
Cross-Border Academic Collaboration in Fermentation Biotechnology
The guest lecture was conducted at FPK UNAIR and delivered in two separate sessions for the Aquatic Ecology course. In the Aquatic Ecology E class, Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Wan Abd Al-Qadr Imad Wan Mohtar presented a lecture entitled “Microorganisms as Alternative Feed Sources for Aquatic Fish.” Meanwhile, in the Aquatic Ecology B class, he discussed “Fungi in Aquatic Ecology: Natural Decomposers and Their Potential as Sustainable Feed.” Through these sessions, students were introduced to the scientific foundations and applied dimensions of microbial and fungal biotechnology in modern aquaculture systems.
As an academic from the Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, he brought extensive expertise in fermentation technology and microbial research. His academic background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology and a Master’s degree in Food Biotechnology from Universiti Putra Malaysia, as well as a Ph.D. in Fermentation Technology conducted in research collaboration with the University of Strathclyde. His global academic exposure enriched classroom discussions, particularly in understanding how microbial fermentation can optimize nutrient efficiency, reduce dependence on conventional fishmeal, and contribute to circular bioeconomy approaches in aquaculture.
Serving as an Associate Professor and active researcher in advanced liquid fermentation and fungal microbiology, his contribution extended beyond delivering lectures. The session opened opportunities for scientific dialogue regarding joint research initiatives, student exchanges, and collaborative publications. His role as Adjunct Professor (Research Fellow) at Universitas Airlangga further reinforces the long-term institutional partnership and reflects FPK UNAIR’s strategic direction toward internationalization in higher education and research.
Student Engagement and Research Network Strengthening
The guest lecture was attended by dozens of students from the Aquaculture and Fisheries Product Technology study programs, particularly first-year students. Their enthusiasm was evident through active participation and interactive discussions throughout the sessions. Students engaged critically with topics such as the feasibility of implementing microorganism-based feed in commercial aquaculture operations, regulatory considerations, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability challenges in industrial-scale production.
The primary objective of organizing this guest lecture was to broaden students’ perspectives on fermentation biotechnology applications in modern aquaculture systems while strengthening international research networks. Direct interaction with an international academic provided students with exposure to global research trends and practical innovation strategies. This experience supports the development of globally competent graduates equipped to address contemporary environmental and food security challenges.
At the institutional level, the collaboration opens wider opportunities for joint research development, academic mobility programs, and co-authored scientific publications. Such initiatives align strongly with SDGs 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), emphasizing the importance of global partnerships in advancing sustainable development through synergy among educational and research institutions. By fostering knowledge exchange and collaborative innovation, FPK UNAIR continues to position itself as an active contributor to international scientific advancement.
One of the participating students, Adira from the Aquaculture Study Program, expressed that the guest lecture was both engaging and easy to understand. She noted that the practical examples provided during the session made the discussion of microorganisms and fungi highly relevant to real-world aquaculture practices, particularly in improving feed sustainability and production efficiency.
Through this academic initiative, FPK UNAIR once again demonstrates its role as a higher education institution committed to building strategic global partnerships. The guest lecture featuring Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Wan Abd Al-Qadr Imad Wan Mohtar not only served as an academic forum but also symbolized strengthened cross-border collaboration in advancing fisheries science and biotechnology with international competitiveness.
