Banda Aceh, 16 April 2026 – A delegation from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia conducted a working visit to the Tsunami and Disaster Mitigation Research Center to strengthen academic collaboration, research, and the development of international programs in the field of Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR).
The visit was attended by several representatives from UTM and international partners, including Liyana Hayatun Syamila binti Ramlee (Disaster Management Programme, UTM), Khamarrul Azahari Razak (DPPC, MJIIT–UTM), and Norazam Ab Samah from MERCY Malaysia. The delegation was warmly received by Prof. Syamsidik, Director of TDMRC, along with several researchers. The meeting began with an introduction session and institutional profile presentations, followed by an overview of TDMRC’s flagship programs, ranging from tsunami research and disaster mitigation to community-based resilience strengthening.
During the discussion, MERCY Malaysia presented its contributions to post-disaster response, particularly in the development of temporary shelters (huntara) in Aceh Tamiang. This initiative serves as a concrete example of collaboration between academic institutions and humanitarian organizations in supporting sustainable post-disaster recovery. On the other hand, TDMRC also emphasized its role through active involvement in the Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK) Task Force, contributing to disaster response coordination, research-based technical support, and community assistance. This reflects TDMRC’s commitment to integrating scientific approaches with field-based action to enhance the effectiveness of disaster response and recovery efforts. 
The meeting also resulted in several strategic initiatives to strengthen future collaboration. One of them is a joint publication plan, including an invitation for TDMRC researchers to contribute as invited authors in an international book chapter.
In addition, both parties explored various opportunities for collaboration, including:
- development of joint degree programs in disaster studies
- international research collaboration
- academic exchange programs
- field-based training programs
The program is designed as a field learning platform based on the Resilience Living Lab concept, integrating a science–policy–society approach to provide a comprehensive understanding of disaster management.
In this program, TDMRC will serve as a key learning hub, alongside several important sites, including the Museum Tsunami Aceh, tsunami-affected areas, recovery and resettlement zones, and various community resilience initiatives.
Participants will gain direct experience across the entire disaster management cycle, from mitigation and preparedness to response and post-disaster recovery.
This collaboration further reinforces Aceh’s position as a living laboratory for global disaster studies. With its extensive experience in dealing with major disasters, Aceh has become an important reference for the development of knowledge, policy, and practices in disaster management at the international level.
