A book written by two Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) researchers has been named the recipient of the Best Scholarly Book Award in Science and Technology (Appreciation Award) at the recently held 16th Malaysian Academic Publishers Council – Ministry of Higher Education (MAPIM – KPT) Awards Ceremony, marking another proud milestone for the university.

The book titled Fishes of Kenyir, published by UMT Publisher, is the result of research conducted by Dr. Mohamad Aqmal Mohd Naser and Associate Professor Dr. Amiruddin Ahmad from the Institute of Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development (IBTPL).

Both authors are actively involved in freshwater biodiversity research in Malaysia.

Fishes of Kenyir is bound to make a significant impact on the research and education landscape by providing important information on freshwater fish species, including those classified as endangered and critically endangered. Its contents support conservation efforts in line with Malaysia’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 15), which emphasizes the importance of conserving terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems.

According to Dr. Mohamad Aqmal, the award is a prestigious recognition that reflects the confidence in the contributions of researchers in the field of national aquatic resource conservation.

“This award is not only a form of recognition for our research outcomes, but also a source of motivation for us to continue producing scholarly work and contributing to environmental conservation,” he said.

Dr Mohamad Aqmal also expressed his appreciation to all parties who supported the production of the book.

Meanwhile, Associate Professor Dr. Amirrudin, who is also the Regional Co-Chair for the Mainland and Peninsular Southeast Asia region under the IUCN-SSC/Wetlands International Freshwater Fish Specialist Group, stated that this success is the result of continuous and tireless efforts.

This achievement not only strengthens UMT’s reputation as a leading university in biodiversity research, natural ecosystem conservation, and the advancement of science-based knowledge in marine and aquatic resources, but also highlights UMT’s capability as an institution committed to publishing high-quality scholarly works and elevating academic research and publishing at the national level.

By Azeeha Ibrahim, UMT Publisher