INDUSTRIAL VISIT TO POLYPLAS STRENGTHENS USM POLYMER ENGINEERING STUDENTS’ UNDERSTANDING

PENANG, 18 May 2026 - A total of 23 students from the Polymer Engineering Programme, School of Materials and Mineral Resources Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), recently participated in an industrial visit to Polyplas Sdn. Bhd.

The visit aimed to provide students with exposure to real-world applications in the polymer industry as well as the production processes and operational management practices at the company.

Throughout the visit, students gained valuable knowledge related to plastic processing technology, product quality control, and workplace safety practices.

During the visit, students were also exposed to the latest technologies and machinery used in the polymer manufacturing industry.

According to the accompanying lecturer, Dr. Muhamad Sharan Musa, the industrial visit provided students with a clearer understanding of the real applications of die and mould design in the polymer manufacturing industry.

He stated that the students were able to observe firsthand how production processes are systematically carried out, beginning from product design, moulding processes, quality control systems, to the use of modern technologies in the industry.

“Direct learning experiences such as this are very important as they help students relate the theories learned in the EBP 302 Die and Mould Design course to actual workplace situations,” he said.

He further explained that the visit also provided early exposure to students regarding the industrial working environment, workplace safety aspects, as well as the technical and professional skills required in today’s polymer manufacturing field.

“It is hoped that this programme will enhance students’ understanding of polymer engineering while strengthening the relationship between the university and industry in producing graduates who are more competent, competitive, and able to meet current industry needs,” he concluded.

Text: Nur Zahirah Aisyah Baharin (Year 3 student, School of Materials and Mineral Resources Engineering)
Photo: Yasmin Munir (Year 3 student, School of Materials and Mineral Resources Engineering)