October 16, 2025 – The Center for International Affairs, successfully hosted a delegation of 10 esteemed faculty members and researchers from The Bioplastics Innovation Hub, Murdoch University, Australia, from October 13 to 16, 2025. The visit focused on advancing collaborative research to address critical issues of plastic pollution in the environment and marine ecosystem sustainability.

The delegation, comprising experts including Professor Daniel Murphy and Professor Tony O’Donnell, engaged in a series of high-level meetings and fieldwork activities to lay the foundation for a joint research partnership.

Key Highlights of the Visit:

• Research Workshop and Presentation (October 14): A full-day workshop was organized for both parties to present and exchange current research findings. The session was presided over by Vice President, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Surin Maisrikrod, who emphasized the university’s commitment to international cooperation. Following the meeting, the delegation was taken to observe the area around the Thung Tha Lat landfill site to study local waste management practices relevant to pollution and waste disposal research.
• Fieldwork on Seagrass Conservation (October 15): The delegates traveled to Sikao District, Trang Province, to observe ongoing research on seagrass conservation and rehabilitation. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mallika Srisutasanasinee and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Krisanadej Srisutasanasinee led the field visit. They were joined by Mr. Banjong, Head of the Bo Hin Community and Seagrass Conservation Group, who provided valuable insights into local conservation efforts, nursery techniques, and the challenges leading to seagrass mortality in Trang Province.

Future Collaborative Research Focus

Following intensive discussions during the field visit, researchers from both institutions identified two promising areas for immediate joint action and research development:

1. Development of Tools for Seagrass Planting: Innovating equipment to expedite the seagrass planting process, reducing reliance on manual labor.
2. Nutrient-Rich Gel for Seedling Enhancement: Developing a nurturing gel for seagrass saplings to accelerate growth, shorten the propagation period, and enhance nutrient supply, thereby increasing the survival rate of transplanted seedlings.

The Center for International Affairs is now expediting the drafting and signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formalize this strategic collaboration and commence joint research projects.

The International Affairs Center extends its sincere gratitude to the representatives from the School of Public Health, School of Engineering and Technology, and School of Science for their participation in welcoming the Murdoch University researchers and presenting their work, which has successfully contributed to expanding the university’s international academic network.