Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rozalina Zakaria’s research is at the forefront of photonic materials and devices, with a strong focus on the development of optical fiber sensors, nonlinear optical phenomena, and advanced light–matter interactions. Her work explores the integration of plasmonic nanostructures and two-dimensional (2D) materials to enhance optoelectronic performance, particularly for sensing and signal-processing applications. She has made significant advancements in the design of nanostructured materials for enhanced light–matter interaction, especially in applications involving surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and magneto-optical phenomena.She was selected for an Honorable Mention in the Senior Scientist Category of the U.S.–ASEAN Science Prize for Women 2025 and has been recognized globally as a Top 2% Scientist by Stanford University in consecutive years (2024 and 2025) in the sub field of Optoelectronics and Photonics. She has published extensively in high-impact journals. Her key contributions include studies on the nonlinear optical behaviour of plasmonic metallic nanoparticles, optimization of SPR-based fiber sensors and the integration of 2D materials for broadband photonic applications. She has led numerous research projects on plasmon-enhanced photodetectors and ultrafast optical modulators, positioning her as a prominent research leader in Malaysia’s photonics landscape. Beyond her research, Dr. Zakaria actively mentors early-career researchers and contributes to academic leadership through national and international research initiatives.  

Dr. Arutchelvan Rajamanikam is a distinguished researcher in medical parasitology and microbiology, recognized for his contributions to parasite genomics and bacteria–parasite interactions. Currently serving as Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, he leads cutting-edge research at the intersection of gut microbiota, protozoan parasites, and host-pathogen dynamics. His work is particularly noted for advancing the understanding of Blastocystis sp. biology, where he has helped redefine its pathogenic potential through integrative genomic, transcriptomic, and microbiome-based approaches. Dr. Arutchelvan’s research excellence lies in uncovering the bidirectional relationship between intestinal parasites and bacterial communities, demonstrating how microbial ecosystems influence parasite virulence, drug resistance, and disease outcomes. He employs advanced methodologies including next-generation sequencing, high-throughput drug screening, and computational microbiome analysis, positioning his work at the forefront of translational infectious disease research. His investigations extend to parasite genomics in helminths and protozoa, as well as vector microbiota, with implications for antimicrobial resistance and precision medicine. With over 17 peer-reviewed publications and an H-index of 9, his research has gained international recognition. He has secured competitive funding exceeding MYR 2.1 million as Principal Investigator and collaborator, including prestigious grants from national and international bodies such as the Ministry of Higher Education and UKRI. His collaborative network spans globally renowned institutions, reinforcing the impact and reach of his research. In recognition of his scientific contributions, Dr. Arutchelvan was awarded the Outstanding Researcher in Parasitology by the Venus International Foundation in 2025. He is also an active member of international scientific initiatives, including the European COST Action on Blastocystis under the One Health framework. Beyond research, he contributes as a journal editor, reviewer, and academic leader, shaping the next generation of scientists in parasitology and microbiome research

Dr. Atifah binti Ahmad Yusoff, who holds a Ph.D. in Social Sciences from Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, an M.A. in Islamic Thought from Universiti Malaya, and a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Process Plant Engineering from Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, is currently a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Aqidah and Islamic Thought, Academy of Islamic Studies, Universiti Malaya. Dr. Atifah’s academic and research expertise spans Comparative Religion, Islamic Thought, and Contemporary Ideologies, with a strong specialisation in socio-religious harmony. She has led and contributed to multiple funded research projects, including as Principal Investigator for the Pembangunan Model Pedagogi Interaksi Antara Penganut Agama Dalam Pendidikan Islam Sekolah Menengah di Sabah (2024–2027, UM Research Excellence Grant) and as Co-Researcher for the Implementasi Konsep Tasamuh Dalam Pendidikan Madani Ke Arah Perpaduan dan Keharmonian Masyarakat Madani Multi-Etnik di Malaysia (2024–2026, UM Global Transformation Research Grant). She was also part of the research team for the Kajian Persepsi, Faktor dan Implikasi Islamofobia Dalam Kalangan Masyarakat Malaysia (2025) and the Piagam Harmoni Malaysia project with Institut Kefahaman Islam Malaysia (2023–2024). Her scholarly contributions include publications on the Socio-Religious Harmony Index (SRHI), which were presented at international conferences and published in reputable journals such as the Pertanika Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities. She has also written extensively in mass media on issues of religious harmony, moderation, and moral development, with articles appearing in platforms such as Berita Harian, Bebas News, Sumber Kini, and UMResearchPlus. In the professional sphere, Dr. Atifah is actively engaged with institutions and dialogue initiatives that promote interfaith understanding. In 2025, she was appointed Associate Member of the Universiti Malaya Centre for Civilisational Dialogue (UMCCD) and has participated as a resource person in national focus group discussions and harmony outreach programs. She has also served as a moderator in both international and university-level conferences. Dr. Atifah has supervised postgraduate and undergraduate research in areas closely tied to socio-religious harmony, including sectarian violence, interfaith pedagogy, and moral awareness. Her academic service includes reviewing journal articles, evaluating Ph.D. theses, and advising on national-level publications. Her work reflects a deep commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence in Malaysia’s multi-religious society, bridging scholarly research with practical engagement to address contemporary challenges in interfaith relations and Islamic thought.