Prof. Ir. Dr. Jamaluddin Mahmud

Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia

Bio: Prof Ir Dr Jamaluddin Mahmud is the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Mechanical Engineering and a Professor of Computational Mechanics at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM). He holds a PhD in Biomechanical Engineering from Cardiff University (UK), an MSc in Manufacturing Engineering from IIUM, and a B.Eng. (Hons.) in Mechanical Engineering from UiTM. Since joining UiTM in 2001, he has conducted research and lectured in Biomechanics, Finite Element Method, and Product Design. With over 200 publications and prior industry experience at UMW Equipment Sdn. Bhd., he actively contributes to national and international committees, editorial boards, and technical panels, reflecting his standing as a respected expert in mechanical and computational engineering.

Prof. Mary Donnabelle L. Balela

University of the Philippines Diliman, Philippines

Speech Title: Catalyzing Sustainability: Transition Metal Materials for Water Conversion

Bio: Dr. Mary Donnabelle L. Balela is a Professor of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of the Philippines Diliman and a UP Scientist III. Her research focuses on electrocatalysis and advanced functional materials for sustainable energy conversion, including CO₂ reduction, water splitting, and resource recovery systems. She designs transition metal–based catalysts and nanostructured materials to improve efficiency, selectivity, and durability in electrochemical processes. Dr. Balela has received several national recognitions, including the Outstanding Young Scientist Award from the National Academy of Science and Technology (Philippines) and the DOST-NSTW Outstanding Research and Development Award for Applied Research. She has collaborated with leading international institutions in Europe and Asia and actively advocates for strengthening materials innovation and women’s leadership in science across the ASEAN region.