Research Collaboration Discussion: Centre for Mathematical Sciences UMPSA and Rich Ergon Sdn. Bhd.

On 15 December 2025, the Centre for Mathematical Sciences (CSM), Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA), conducted a strategic research discussion with Rich Ergon Sdn. Bhd. to explore potential collaborative opportunities. The session was led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Norhayati Rosli from UMPSA and Mr. Ikram Ibrahim, Senior Engineer from Critical Joint Consultancy, representing Rich Ergon Sdn. Bhd.

The session served as a platform for knowledge sharing between academia and industry. Rich Ergon provided detailed insights into flange defects, including current mitigation methods and industry-standard guidelines. They also demonstrated their data management practices, specifically how inspection records are stored within their internal databases.

The UMPSA team, represented by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Norhayati Rosli, Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Noryanti Muhammad, and Dr. Norhafizah Md Sarif gained a deeper understanding of flange mechanics and operational challenges. This explanation provides the UMPSA’s team with a clear foundation for identifying how mathematical modelling can be applied to these real-world technical issues.

The primary focus of this early engagement was to align UMPSA’s mathematical expertise with the practical needs of Rich Ergon, specifically regarding predictive modelling and data analytics. By understanding the mechanics of flange failure and the structure of existing inspection data, the researchers can now develop better ways to process and predict equipment health.

This discussion marks a vital step toward a formal collaboration. Moving forward, both parties aim to translate these initial ideas into joint research projects that will improve industrial safety and operational efficiency through mathematical modelling and data-driven solutions.

Author: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Norhayati Rosli