Zulaikha Mokhtar | Environmental Challenges | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. Zulaikha Mokhtar  – Environmental Challenges  – Best Researcher Award

Alignment with Award Category

Zulaikha Mokhtar’s research and professional contributions align seamlessly with the Best Researcher Award’s emphasis on innovation, impact, and sustainability. Her work demonstrates a commitment to advancing both theoretical and practical aspects of environmental engineering, making her a strong contender for this recognition.

Department of Environment| Malaysia

         Profile

🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Education and Training

Zulaikha Mokhtar’s journey into the field of chemical engineering began with a strong academic foundation. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Putra, Malaysia, where she developed a keen interest in environmental compliance and industrial process optimization. Her pursuit of excellence continued with a Master of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering from The University of Queensland, Australia, where her research focused on advanced environmental engineering solutions. This robust educational background laid the groundwork for her dynamic career in regulatory compliance and sustainability initiatives.

 

💼Professional Endeavors 

Academic Positions

Zulaikha’s career is marked by impactful roles in the Department of Environment, Malaysia:

  1. Senior Assistant Director, Legal and Forensics (2021 – Present):
    • Spearheaded forensic strategies and policies to strengthen investigative capabilities.
    • Designed and conducted capacity-building programs, equipping officers with skills in environmental law enforcement.
    • Developed comprehensive SOPs for forensic investigations, ensuring regulatory compliance.
  2. Senior Assistant Director, Environmental Compliance (2021 – 2024):
    • Reduced environmental non-compliance incidents through proactive initiatives.
    • Implemented advanced effluent management technologies and directed environmental impact assessments to align with national and international standards.
    • Collaborated with stakeholders to champion sustainability goals in alignment with Malaysia’s environmental commitments.
  3. Head of Prosecution Division (2013 – 2021):
    • Played a pivotal role in prosecuting 4,825 cases with a remarkable 98.7% conviction rate.
    • Assessed industries for regulatory compliance and improved enforcement outcomes significantly.
  4. Head of Enforcement Division (2010 – 2013):
    • Investigated public complaints and resolved pollution control issues.
    • Maintained an industry compliance rate of 98.6% and ensured timely complaint investigations.

 

📚Contributions and Research Focus on Environmental Challenges

Zulaikha Mokhtar’s career reflects a steadfast commitment to addressing environmental challenges: Effluent Management: She has pioneered the adoption of innovative effluent management technologies, optimizing resource efficiency while ensuring regulatory compliance. Regulatory Leadership: Her expertise in environmental stewardship and legal enforcement has led to landmark prosecutions that reinforce Malaysia’s regulatory excellence. Capacity Building: Through training and development initiatives, she has empowered teams across Malaysia to effectively implement environmental regulations and forensic analyses. Research and Innovation: Zulaikha’s work bridges academia and practice, focusing on developing scalable, sustainable solutions for industrial and environmental challenges.

 

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Zulaikha’s dedication and excellence have been widely recognized: 2021: Excellence Service Award for the year of Service 2020. 2021: Special Appreciation from the Ministry of Environment and Water for prosecution under Section 124K, SOSMA. 2013 & 2017: Certificates of Appreciation from the Environmental Institute of Malaysia for her contributions to training programs. 2003: Education Award for JPA Scholarship for her degree program. 2022: HLP Kenal Pasti (Federal Training Scholarship) for her Master of Philosophy.

 

🌍 Impact and Influence 

Community Impact

Zulaikha’s leadership has had a transformative effect on Malaysia’s environmental landscape: Strengthened Enforcement: Her efforts have enhanced regulatory compliance and reduced industrial environmental violations. Prosecutorial Excellence: Her work in prosecuting environmental violations has set new benchmarks for legal enforcement in Malaysia. Sustainability Advocacy: By promoting sustainability practices across industries, she has contributed to Malaysia’s environmental stewardship goals.

 

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions 

Zulaikha Mokhtar’s legacy lies in her relentless pursuit of environmental excellence. As a trailblazer in chemical engineering and environmental compliance, she has set a high standard for future professionals. Her vision for scalable and innovative solutions ensures that her work will continue to inspire generations to address environmental challenges. Moving forward, Zulaikha aims to further her impact by leveraging her expertise to drive global sustainability initiatives and mentor the next generation of environmental engineers.

 

Conclusion

Zulaikha Mokhtar (P.Eng, MIEM, ACPE, MIEAust CPeng) stands out as a dynamic force in chemical engineering and environmental compliance. Her career is a testament to the power of expertise, innovation, and leadership in addressing critical environmental challenges. By championing sustainability and regulatory excellence, Zulaikha exemplifies the spirit of the Environmental Challenges Award and inspires global action toward a sustainable future.

 

📚Publications

Challenges for Compliance with Industrial Effluent Regulations—An Industry Perspective

Authors: Zulaikha Mokhtar; Steven Kenway; Irdayanti Mat Nashir
Journals: Challenges

<b>Review of Malaysia&apos;s Environmental Waterways&apos; Compliance with Industrial Effluent Discharge </b> <br/> <br/>

Authors: Zulaikha Mokhtar
Journals: Science Open Preprints

Sumit Gandhi | Environmental Analysis | Academic Leadership in Business Strategy Award

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Dr . Sumit Gandhi - Environmental Analysis - Academic Leadership in Business Strategy Award

Jaypee University of Engineering & Technology, Guna | India

Author Profile 

Early Academic Pursuits

His academic journey began with a strong foundation in civil engineering. He earned his Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) in Civil Engineering from North Maharashtra University, Jalgaon, Maharashtra, in 2001. He then pursued higher education at the prestigious Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology (MNNIT), Allahabad, where he obtained his Master of Technology (M. Tech) in Water Resources Engineering in 2004 and subsequently completed his Ph.D. in Hydraulics Engineering in 2009. His doctoral research focused on the "Studies on Hydraulic Jump Characteristics in Prismatic and Non-Prismatic Channels," laying the groundwork for his future contributions to environmental analysis and water resource management.

 

Professional Endeavors

His professional career is marked by significant roles in both teaching and research. He started as a Lecturer at Jaypee University of Engineering and Technology (JUET), Guna, in 2006. Over the years, he progressed through various academic positions, including Senior Lecturer, Assistant Professor (Senior Grade), Associate Professor, and finally Head of the Department (HOD) of Civil Engineering. His roles have encompassed teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities, reflecting his commitment to academic excellence and leadership.

 

Contributions and Research Focus in Environmental Analysis

He has made substantial contributions to the field of environmental analysis through his extensive research and consultancy work. His research projects have included:

  • Water Management Using Corrugated Bed and Stepped Spillway in an Open Channel for Ecological Protection (MPCST, Rs. 14,38,000)
  • Upgradation of JUET Water Treatment Plant (JUET Guna, Rs. 6.09 Lakhs)
  • Wind Tunnel Testing of Chimney (Ujjawal Construction, Rs. 6 Lakhs)
  • Wind Tunnel Testing Science City Building, Ahmedabad (Keshav Nirman Asset LLP, Rs. 18 Lakhs)
  • Crust, BC Mix, and DBM Mix Design (M/s Anil Nayak and Company, Rs. 70,800)
  • BC Mix and DBM Mix Design (M/s Nagar Parishad, Rs. 35,400)
  • Crust Design of Road (M/s Municipal Council, Rs. 12,390)
  • Grain Size Analysis, CNS (M/s Executive Engineer, WRD, Rs. 36,816)

His research has not only advanced the academic field but also provided practical solutions to real-world environmental challenges.

Accolades and Recognition

His dedication to his field has been recognized through various awards and honors. He has been an integral part of several prestigious committees and councils, including:

  • Head of Department, Civil Engineering (JUET Guna, Dec 2023 - Continuing)
  • Member, National Council for Vocational Education & Training (NCVET) Committee (Dec 2023 - Continuing)
  • Coordinator, Wind Engineering Application Centre (WEAC) (Jan 2023 - Continuing)
  • University Academic Management Committee (Jan 2023 - Continuing)
  • Member, Research Advisory Council (2022-23)

These roles highlight his leadership and influence in the academic and professional communities.

Impact and Influence

His impact extends beyond his immediate academic environment. His work in environmental analysis, particularly in water resource management and wind engineering, has contributed significantly to sustainable development and ecological protection. His efforts in upgrading water treatment facilities and conducting wind tunnel tests for structural safety and efficiency demonstrate his commitment to applying scientific research to benefit society.

Legacy and Future Contributions

His career is a testament to his unwavering dedication to environmental analysis and engineering education. As he continues to serve in his current roles, his future contributions are anticipated to further advance the field and inspire the next generation of engineers and researchers. His commitment to academic integrity, ethics, and sustainable development ensures that his legacy will be one of profound influence and positive change.

Notable Publications