Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) and RXT Greensnow Synergy Sdn. Bhd. have signed a Joint Collaborative Agreement (JCA) to advance knowledge and expertise in the field of rare earth elements (REE).
Signing the agreement on behalf of UTP were its Vice Chancellor Professor Dato’ Ts Dr Mohamed Ibrahim Abdul Mutalib and the Director for the Institute of Hydrocarbon Recovery (IHR) Associate Professor Dr Syahrir Ridha. RXT Greensnow Synergy Sdn. Bhd. was represented by its Managing Director Dato’ Nik Abdul Mubin Nik Mahmood and Director Nur Rabbiah Dato’ Sri Azhar.
The signing was witnessed by His Royal Highness Raja Muda Perak Raja Ja’afar Raja Muda Musa.
According to Mohamed Ibrahim, “The JCA marks a significant effort and commitment by UTP to share knowledge and expertise with industry partners, emphasising the university’s dedication to the sustainable development of Perak and the nation.
“UTP is strategically located in Perak, a mineral-rich state with ion absorption clay based REE, presenting immense economic potential. Recognising the economic significance of these resources, UTP and RXT Greensnow Synergy Sdn. Bhd. will lead a series of collaborative projects aimed at overcoming challenges in REE extraction and processing technologies, including separation and purification, to address long-term solutions to the global REE supply chain,” he added.
To meet the challenges of the mineral industry in Malaysia, UTP, through its IHR, is committed to conducting R&D related to mineral processing technology, optimum exploration technologies, and green and sustainable extraction process.
UTP is also dedicated to ensuring that the collaboration aligns with environmentally friendly practices and meets social responsibilities.
"Economic prospects alone are not enough; development must be environmentally friendly and fulfil social responsibilities. UTP is steadfast in its commitment to becoming a world-class sustainability university, contributing to the sustainability of the entire community through education and research,” said Mohamed Ibrahim.
UTP hopes that the agreement will open up opportunities for more collaborative ventures with other institutions related to REE and critical mineral resources.
