THP FBF students recognised for logistics automation and human-robot collaboration research at IUC-SSPRC 2025

Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) in Logistics and Supply Chain Management student Marsyall Peter from the Teh Hong Piow Faculty of Business and Finance (THP FBF) won the Silver and Bronze Best Presenter Awards at the Industry-University-Community Summit and the 5th Swinburne Sarawak Postgraduate Research Conference (IUC-SSPRC 2025).

The conference, held from 13 to 15 August 2025 at the Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, Kuching, was organised by the Swinburne Postgraduate Research Society and the Conference Organising Committee.

Themed Beyond Boundaries – Unleashing Research to Enable Real-World Impact, IUC-SSPRC 2025 provided a platform for postgraduate students to showcase their research, exchange knowledge across disciplines, and connect with academia, industry, and community stakeholders. The event aimed to encourage research that drives change and delivers tangible benefits to society.

Reflecting on his achievement, Marsyall said, “What set me apart was the drive to deliver my research with clarity and impact. I joined this competition to challenge myself on a bigger stage, and winning both Silver and Bronze Best Presenter Awards makes me proud. It proves that focus and hard work always pay off.”

He further attributed his success to UTAR’s role in nurturing research talent, sharing, “My journey at UTAR built the foundation for this achievement. The rigorous training, supportive lecturers, and culture of academic discipline at UTAR sharpened not only my research skills but also my confidence in presenting ideas clearly and persuasively. Winning these awards at Swinburne is not just a personal milestone but a reflection of the values, guidance, and opportunities I received as a UTAR student.”

The research projects were co-authored with fellow UTAR students, Paul Peter and Darren Peter, and supervised by former THP FBF academic Dr Peter Yacob.

Award-winning research projects

1. Harnessing Robotic Process Automation for Logistics Optimisation: A Python-Based Data Analysis Approach
This project investigated the use of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) to improve logistics operations. By employing Python and Microsoft Power Automate, the team developed automated workflows for shipment tracking, inventory reporting, and customer communication. Results showed up to 85% time savings and 95% error reduction, demonstrating RPA’s potential to streamline processes, reduce operational inefficiencies, and enhance competitiveness in logistics.

The project contributes to:

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – by modernising logistics practices through digital innovation.
SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – by reducing wasted resources, errors, and costs to promote more sustainable logistics operations.

2. The Impact of Technological Affinity on Employees’ Willingness to Engage with Humanoid Robots in Manufacturing
This study explored how employees’ comfort, interest, and confidence with technology influence their readiness to work with humanoid robots. Based on a survey of 150 employees, the findings confirmed that technological affinity plays a critical role in shaping willingness to adopt robots in manufacturing, extending the traditional Technology Acceptance Model.

The project contributes to:

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – by supporting inclusive workforce readiness and adaptability in the face of Industry 4.0 transformations.
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – by offering practical insights into human-robot collaboration in the manufacturing sector.

Both projects highlight the students’ commitment to advancing innovation and sustainability, reflecting UTAR’s dedication to nurturing impactful research aligned with global goals.

For more details on IUC-SSPRC 2025, visit Swinburne Sarawak Postgraduate Research Conference 2025.