Physical Science Research Centre

TITLE: Characterization of green-synthesized carbon quantum dots from spent coffee grounds for EDLC electrode applications

SOURCE: Chemical Physics Impact

SDG: 7

CITATION: Arora, G., Nuur Syahidah, S., Liew, C. W., Ng, C. Y., Low, F. W., Pramod, K. S., Jun, H. K.. (2024) Characterization of green-synthesized carbon quantum dots from spent coffee grounds for EDLC electrode applications. Chemical Physics Impact 9(100767): 4–10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chphi.2024.100767.

ABSTRACT:

This study investigates the green synthesis of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) from spent coffee grounds using a hydrothermal method, offering an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and straightforward approach to nanomaterial production. The synthesized CQDs, with particle sizes ranging from 1.6 to 4.4 nm, exhibited notable fluorescence, achieving quantum yields of 37.0 %, 54.3 %, and 63.3 % depending on the coffee source. Characterization technique, including XRD, FTIR, SEM, TEM, and BET, confirmed their structural suitability of these CQDs for energy storage applications. Their electrochemical performance was evaluated through cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge-discharge (GCD), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Among the CQDs tested, those derived from spent Liberica coffee ground (medium roasted) demonstrated superior performance, with a discharging specific capacitance of 97.5 F/g, an energy density of 4.3 Wh/kg, and a power density of 130.6 W/kg at a current density of 0.5 A/g. Additionally, they exhibited acceptable internal resistance (Ra = 0.01 kΩ and Rab = 16.9 kΩ), indicating favourable charge transfer characteristics. These results underscore the enhanced energy storage potential of CQDs derived from spent coffee grounds. The findings not only highlight the excellent electrochemical performance but also support the viability of biomass waste as a valuable resource for advanced energy storage applications, promoting sustainable, eco-friendly technologies.

TITLE: Development of polyaniline‑tin oxide (PAni‑SnO2) as binary photocatalyst for toxic pollutant removal

SOURCE: Polymer Bulletin

SDG: 6, 12

CITATION:  Low, W. L., Liew, C. W., Juan, J. C., Phang, S. W. (2024) Development of polyaniline‑tin oxide (PAni‑SnO2) as binary photocatalyst for toxic pollutant removal. Polymer Bulletin 82: 313–334. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00289-024-05586-2.

ABSTRACT:

Azo dyes are commonly used as a coloring agent in the textile industry to beautify the textile products. However, due to the non-biodegradable and toxic nature of azo dyes, it is imperative to degrade the toxic dye in the textile effluent in order to prevent it from penetrating the aquatic ecosystem and causing environmental pollution. For this purpose, binary photocatalysts of polyaniline—tin oxide (PAni-SnO2) with different weight percent of SnO2 were synthesized using template-free method. The chemical structures and oxidation states of the photocatalysts were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and ultra-violet visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopies, respectively. The existence of SnO2 was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, while morphology of the photocatalysts was investigated by field emission scanning electron microsocopy (FESEM). Electrical conductivities of PAni-SnO2 binary photocatalysts were measured by conductivity meter showing conductivity range of 6.55 × 10–6–2.66 × 10–3 S cm−1. The photodegradation performance of PAni-SnO2 binary phorocatalysts for toxic RB5 azo dye was in the range of 30.26–72.94% in which PAni-SnO2(10%) demonstrates the highest photodegradation performance of 72.94%. This can be explained by its high surface area nanorods and nanotubes morphology that promotes electron conductivity (2.66 × 10–3 S cm−1) and for better RB5 adsorption. Also, its low band gap (1.98 eV) enabling easy excitation of electrons to form electron–hole pairs and low electron-pair recombination rate (low PL emission intensity of 7.29 × 103 a.u.) are the other factors that contribute to its excellent photodegradation performance.

TITLE: Tin-Based Anodes for Next-Generation Lithium-Ion Batteries

SOURCE: Taylor & Francis

SDG: 7

CITATION: Teo., L. P., Buraidah, M. H., Arof, A. K. (2024). Tin-Based Anodes for Next-Generation Lithium-Ion Batteries. In Jun, H.K., & Low, F.W. (Eds.), Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage (pp. 127-158). CRC Press. https://doi.org/10.1201/9781003314424.

ABSTRACT:

Batteries, in general, are electrochemical devices that transform chemical energy into electrical energy. Lithium-ion batteries are one good example of secondary batteries that can be recharged and reused for multiple cycles. Batteries, specifically lithium-ion batteries, can be regarded as a staple in our lives and exist in every corner of the world. A single cell of lithium-ion batteries comprises a cathode, anode, electrolyte, and separator. Graphite is currently the most popular anode, and there has been much research conducted on it. In this article, we focus on tin-based materials as an alternative anode rather than graphite, as it is anticipated that such compounds have the potential to serve as an anode for future-generation lithium-ion batteries.

TITLE: Fuel Cells: Fundamental and Applications

SOURCE: Taylor & Francis

SDG: 7

CITATION: Liew, C. W., Liew, S. Q., Jun, H. K. (2024). Fuel Cells: Fundamental and Applications. In Jun, H.K., & Low, F.W. (Eds.), Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage (pp. 39-60). CRC Press. https://doi.org/10.1201/9781003314424.

ABSTRACT:

Fuel cell technology is a promising solution for the future of sustainable energy. Generally, the term ‘hydrogen fuel cells’ is used interchangeably. Hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, producing water as a byproduct alongside electric power. This technology can be used for transportation, stationary power generation, and energy storage. This chapter presents an overview of fuel cell technology, its fundamental principles, and the mechanism of operating a fuel cell. The thermodynamics principle of a fuel cell related to heat energy is also discussed, as fuel cells involve energy conversion. This work also highlights the challenges in fuel cell technology development and its prospects.

TITLE: Solid-state Electrolytes for Fuel Cells Application

SOURCE: Taylor & Francis

SDG: 7

CITATION: Liew, C. W., Liew, S. Q., Jun, H. K. (2024). Solid-state Electrolytes for Fuel Cells Application. In Jun, H.K., & Low, F.W. (Eds.), Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage (pp. 61-96). CRC Press. https://doi.org/10.1201/9781003314424.

ABSTRACT:

Opting for solid polymer electrolytes can be a beneficial alternative to substituting hazardous liquid electrolytes which cause solvent leakage and poor electrochemical stability. The buildup of the internal pressure in the electrochemical cell which causes the explosion and internal circuit shorting is another reason for choosing solid polymer electrolytes over liquid electrolytes. The electricity of devices using solid polymer electrolytes arises from the ionic conduction mechanism in the electrolytes. The mechanism is governed by a few parameters such as the charge of mobile ions, number of mobile ions, and mobility of ions. The factors that affect the ionic conductivity of polymer electrolytes will be discussed in detail in this chapter. These factors are vital in choosing suitable materials for the formation of polymer electrolytes. For solid polymer electrolytes, their ionic conductivity values are limited and typically fall below the level of a mS/cm. Therefore, there are many approaches to improving the ionic conductivity. This chapter discusses the development of polymer electrolytes, from past generation to current state and future aspects. In addition, this chapter presents a critical review on the parameters that govern ionic conductivity and ways of improving ionic conductivity, especially for polymer electrolytes.

TITLE: Next Generation Supercapacitors with Sustainably Processed Carbon Quantum Dots

SOURCE: Taylor & Francis

SDG: 7

CITATION: Arora, G., Sharma, T., Low, F. W., Ng, C. Y., Pramod, K. S., Liew, C. W., Jun, H. K. (2024). Next Generation Supercapacitors with Sustainably Processed Carbon Quantum Dots. In Jun, H.K., & Low, F.W. (Eds.), Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage (pp. 97-126). CRC Press. https://doi.org/10.1201/9781003314424.

ABSTRACT:

In recent years, alternative battery sources like supercapacitors and electric double-layer capacitors (EDLCs) have been receiving plenty of attention. This brief review focuses on supercapacitor fundamentals and the potential application of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) in the devices. Small nanoparticles of carbon, known as CQD, which are less than 10 nm in size and contain special qualities, have become an essential tool for known specific delivery, biological research, and many therapeutic uses. The purpose of this work is also to assemble the recent research on CQD synthesis with a specific focus on the biomass of coffee grounds, their characterization methods, and the recent progress of CQDs in energy devices. For the synthesis of CQDs, two different types of synthesis methods—a top-down approach and a bottom-up approach—are employed. The laser ablation method, electrochemical method, and arc-discharge method are examples of top-down techniques. The acidic oxidation, microwave-assisted method, and hydrothermal method are examples of bottom-up approaches. CQDs are now receiving more interest from the energy storage sector as additives in electrode material due to their distinctive electrical characteristics and critical function in hosting multiple functional groups superficially. As a result, the energy density of supercapacitors has increased with the widespread usage of CQDs in electrode materials.

TITLE: Malaysia’s Progress in Achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the Lens of Chemistry

SOURCE: Pure and Applied Chemistry

SDG: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17

CITATION: Hooi Ling Lee, Vannajan Sanghiran Lee, Mohd Abdul Muin Md Akil, Noor Adelyna Mohammed Akib, Lai Ti Gew, Teck Hock Lim, Rozana Othman, Mohd Sukor Su’ait, Wai Kit Tang, Yong Sheng Yeoh, Su Yin Chee (2024) Malaysia’s Progress in Achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the Lens of Chemistry. Pure and Applied Chemistry 97(1): 91–119. https://doi.org/10.1515/pac-2024-0233.

ABSTRACT:

Malaysia has initiated a roadmap aligned with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to integrate them into its national development strategy. Chaired by the Prime Minister, the National SDG Council has established a participatory governance structure to foster collaboration among government agencies, civil society, and the private sector, promoting understanding of the SDGs’ interconnectedness. National symposiums and focus group sessions have been conducted to raise awareness and gather stakeholder input in formulating SDG-related policies and programs. Collaboration with NGOs, civil society, and the private sector has been prioritized, with initiatives integrated into the 11th Malaysian Plan to incorporate sustainable development into the national strategy. The creation of a national SDG Roadmap will offer a systematic approach to realizing the UN’s 2030 Agenda for SDGs. Chemistry serves as a crucial element in advancing SDGs by addressing pressing challenges and exploring new avenues for sustainable development. This article examines Malaysia’s sustainable development journey through a chemical lens, addressing 12 of the 17 SDGs. Malaysia aims to play a pivotal role in achieving these goals, addressing environmental, social, and economic challenges by leveraging scientific knowledge and innovation in chemistry. The recommendations underscore Malaysia’s potential to become a more resilient and sustainable nation, contributing significantly to global sustainability efforts.

TITLE: Nanoarchitectonics of Indium Sulfide/Exfoliated-Graphite/Multi-Walled-Carbon-Nanotubes Nanocomposite in Benzyl Alcohol and A Study of Its Effect on Aqueous Symmetrical Supercapacitors

SOURCE: Chiang Mai Journal of Science

SDG: 7

CITATION: Jian Hong Liew, Mui Yen Ho, Jyh-Tsung Lee, Teck Hock Lim (2025) Nanoarchitectonics of Indium Sulfide/Exfoliated-Graphite/Multi-Walled-Carbon-Nanotubes Nanocomposite in Benzyl Alcohol and A Study of Its Effect on Aqueous Symmetrical Supercapacitors. Chiang Mai Journal of Science 52(5): 1–14. https://doi.org/10.12982/CMJS.2025.079.

ABSTRACT:

A new ternary nanocomposite comprised of nanoscale indium sulfide, exfoliated graphite (EG) and multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNTs) was successfully produced in one-step. This nanoarchitectonics design, which could be fabricated under 5 minutes, was made possible by integrating a rapid microwave-assisted thermolysis of indium chloride-thiourea complex at 200 °C and the effective exfoliation of EG and stable dispersion formation of MWCNTs in polar benzyl alcohol. The polar nature and high boiling point (205 °C at 1 atm) of benzyl alcohol were crucial in enhancing the crystallinity of the nanoscale indium sulfide produced. The ternary nanocomposite was structurally characterized using a combination of PXRD, FESEM, HRTEM and EDX, and its electrochemical properties were methodically elucidated via cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge/discharge. The ternary nanocomposite design was found to outperform its binary and singular counterparts with its Csp value registered to be 112 % higher than that quantified for the indium-sulfide-only counterpart. A capacitance retention of 93% was registered for the ternary composite after 4000 cycles at a current density of 1 A/g, when paired with a mild aqueous sodium sulfite (Na2SO3) electrolyte in a supercapacitor set-up.

TITLE: Zwitterionic Poly(Ionic Liquid)-Induced Fast Structural Diffusion Electrolytes for Lithium Metal Batteries

SOURCE: Journal of Alloys and Compounds

SDG: 7, 13

CITATION: Amera F. Mohammed, G. Abdulkareem-Alsultan, Laith K. Obeas, N. Asikin-Mijan, Salma Samidin, Norsahida Azri, Wan Nor Adira Wan Khalit, Maadh Fawzi Nassar, H.V. Lee, Sin Yuan Lai, Ming Yueh Tan, Yun Hin Taufiq-Yap (2025) Regulation of Co-Ni/ MIL-101-C MOF Reconstruction for Enhanced Deoxygenation Reaction. Journal of Alloys and Compounds 1039 (182906): 1 - 14. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jallcom.2025.182906.

ABSTRACT:

This work investigated a mixed Co, Ni oxide supported-MOF catalyst for the selective deoxygenation of sustainable oil. Metal oxide decorated MIL-101 (Fe) (MOF) has emerged as cost-effective alternatives to noble metal-based catalysts for the oxygen removal by deoxygenation reaction in inert condition. The tuning effect of different Co and Ni loading ratios, along with varying MIL-101 (Fe) support loadings and operating temperatures under nitrogen conditions, was systematically studied. While the presence of Ni enhances deoxygenation activity, it also reduces MIL-101 (Fe) domains that are crucial for the reaction pathway. The reaction performance's condition effect was more pronounced with increasing Fe concentration in the supports. Remarkably, the deoxygenation activity decreased with increasing reaction temperatures. The optimized Co-Ni/MIL 101(Fe) catalyst (Co(6)-Ni(6)/MIL-(Fe)-C) exhibits exceptionally high acid and base site densities: 3246.82 and 1730.11 µmol/g), respectively, ranking it among the top-performing deoxygenation catalysts. It achieved a hydrocarbon yield of 98.84 % with an n-C15 selectivity of 85.43 %. This work introduces a novel active site structure and activation strategy for deoxygenation, highlighting the potential of rationally tuning the coordination environment of metal oxide sites to improve catalytic efficiency. 

TITLE: Regulation of Co-Ni/ MIL-101-C MOF Reconstruction for Enhanced Deoxygenation Reaction

SOURCE: Journal of Alloys and Compounds

SDG: 7, 13

CITATION: Amera F. Mohammed, G. Abdulkareem-Alsultan, Laith K. Obeas, N. Asikin-Mijan, Salma Samidin, Norsahida Azri, Wan Nor Adira Wan Khalit, Maadh Fawzi Nassar, H.V. Lee, Sin Yuan Lai, Ming Yueh Tan, Yun Hin Taufiq-Yap (2025) Regulation of Co-Ni/ MIL-101-C MOF Reconstruction for Enhanced Deoxygenation Reaction. Journal of Alloys and Compounds 1039 (182906): 1 - 14. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jallcom.2025.182906.

ABSTRACT:

This work investigated a mixed Co, Ni oxide supported-MOF catalyst for the selective deoxygenation of sustainable oil. Metal oxide decorated MIL-101 (Fe) (MOF) has emerged as cost-effective alternatives to noble metal-based catalysts for the oxygen removal by deoxygenation reaction in inert condition. The tuning effect of different Co and Ni loading ratios, along with varying MIL-101 (Fe) support loadings and operating temperatures under nitrogen conditions, was systematically studied. While the presence of Ni enhances deoxygenation activity, it also reduces MIL-101 (Fe) domains that are crucial for the reaction pathway. The reaction performance's condition effect was more pronounced with increasing Fe concentration in the supports. Remarkably, the deoxygenation activity decreased with increasing reaction temperatures. The optimized Co-Ni/MIL 101(Fe) catalyst (Co(6)-Ni(6)/MIL-(Fe)-C) exhibits exceptionally high acid and base site densities: 3246.82 and 1730.11 µmol/g), respectively, ranking it among the top-performing deoxygenation catalysts. It achieved a hydrocarbon yield of 98.84 % with an n-C15 selectivity of 85.43 %. This work introduces a novel active site structure and activation strategy for deoxygenation, highlighting the potential of rationally tuning the coordination environment of metal oxide sites to improve catalytic efficiency.

TITLE: BmImBr-Enhanced Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) (PVA)-Based Magnesium Ion Conductor for Improved Performance in Electrical Double Layer Capacitor

SOURCE: Ionics

SDG: 7, 11, 13

CITATION: Kar Kien Ong, Wei Quan Lim, Chiam-Wen Liew (2025) BmImBr-Enhanced Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) (PVA)-Based Magnesium Ion Conductor for Improved Performance in Electrical Double Layer Capacitor. Ionics 31: 10973 - 10991. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11581-025-06577-7.

ABSTRACT:

Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) based on poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), magnesium trifluoromethanesulfonate [Mg(OTf)2] and 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide (BmImBr) ionic liquid (IL) were prepared by the solution casting technique. The inclusion of 45 wt% of BmImBr into PVA/Mg(OTf)2-based SPE results in the maximum ionic conductivity of (5.90 ± 0.01) × 10−4 Scm−1 at ambient temperature. The IL-added SPE obeys the Vogel-Tammann-Fulcher (VTF) theory, indicating that its ionic conduction is dependent on the free volume of the polymer matrix. Based on the findings in differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis, the addition of 45 wt% BmImBr into PVA/Mg(OTf)2 SPE manifests a lower glass transition temperature (Tg) of − 23.70 °C. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis proves the complexation between PVA, Mg(OTf)2 and BmImBr. Besides, deconvolution studies on FTIR were performed to determine the percentage of free ions, ion pairs and ion aggregates. The thermal stability of the BmImBr-incorporated SPE was assessed using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) up to 800 °C. The transference number showed an ion transport number of at least 0.90, demonstrating that ionic conduction occurred in the BmImBr-enhanced SPE. An EDLC fabricated with 45 wt% of BmImBr-incorporated SPE was evaluated for its electrochemical performance, including cyclic voltammetry (CV) and galvanostatic charge–discharge (GCD) analysis. Based on CV analysis, there is a significant increase in specific capacitance from 317 to 335 mF/g upon impregnation with 45 wt% of BmImBr. The obtained results were in good agreement with the GCD results.

TITLE: Development of Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) (PVA)/Magnesium Salt-Based Solid Polymer Electrolytes and its Electrical Double Layer Capacitor Application

SOURCE: Functional Materials Letters

SDG: 7, 9, 12, 13

CITATION: Wei Quan Lim, Kar Kien Ong, H. K. Jun, Wee Chen Gan, and Chiam-Wen Liew (2025) Development of Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) (PVA)/Magnesium Salt-Based Solid Polymer Electrolytes and its Electrical Double Layer Capacitor Application. Functional Materials Letters 18(4): 2551038-1 - 2551038-9. https://doi.org/10.1142/S1793604725510385.

ABSTRACT:

Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) comprising poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/magnesium trifluromethanesulfonate [Mg(OTf)2] were prepared by the solution casting technique. The resulting PVA/Mg(OTf)2-based SPE exhibits the maximum ionic conductivity of (3.03 ± 0.01) × 10−6S/cm upon addition of 40 wt.% of Mg(OTf)2. The PVA/Mg(OTf)2-based SPEs follow the Vogel–Tamman–Fulcher (VTF) theory for ionic conduction, indicating that the conduction arises from the free volume within PVA polymer chain. Besides, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) shows a lower glass transition temperature at 55.85∘C after the inclusion of 40 wt.% of Mg(OTf)2. Furthermore, FTIR analysis proves the complexation between PVA and Mg(OTf)2 in the SPEs. Deconvolution studies of FTIR data are also carried out to determine the percentage of free ions, ion pairs, and ion aggregates. Moreover, the electrochemical potential window improves from 3.80 to 4.77 V with the inclusion of 40 wt.% of Mg(OTf)2. Transference number studies show that magnesium ion is the main contributor in conduction. An electrical double-layer capacitor (EDLC) was fabricated using the most conductive PVA/Mg(OTf)2-based SPE and two identical carbon-based electrodes to evaluate its electrochemical performance through cyclic voltammetry (CV) and galvanostatic charge–discharge (GCD) analysis. The resulting EDLC exhibits a specific capacitance of 305 mF/g and shows electrochemical stability up to 500 cycles of charging and discharging. 

TITLE: Electrical, Thermal, and Structural Studies of Ionic Liquid-Infused Corn Starch-Based Magnesium Ion Conductors for Electrical Double Layer Capacitors (EDLCs) Application

SOURCE: Ionics

SDG: 7

CITATION: Yong Er Chong, Wey Wen Lee, Kar Kien Ong, Chiam-Wen Liew (2025) Electrical, Thermal, and Structural Studies of Ionic Liquid-Infused Corn Starch-Based Magnesium Ion Conductors for Electrical Double Layer Capacitors (EDLCs). Ionics 31: 4603 - 4624. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11581-025-06162-y.

ABSTRACT:

Renewable energy storage devices utilizing eco-friendly biopolymers sourced from natural resources have garnered significant attention. Corn starch/magnesium trifluoromethanesulfonate [Mg(OTf)2]/1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (BmImCl) solid biopolymer electrolytes were prepared by solution casting technique. The maximum ionic conductivity of 3.40 × 10−4 S cm−1 is achieved at ambient temperature upon adulteration of 35 wt.% of BmImCl. The biopolymer electrolytes obey Arrhenius theory which is based on thermal-activated principle. Ionic liquid-added solid biopolymer electrolyte appears at lower glass transition temperature (Tg) at 12.49 °C than ionic liquid-free solid biopolymer electrolyte, as proven in differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) study. The FTIR analysis proves the complexation between corn starch, Mg(OTf)2 and BmImCl. The potential window of biopolymer electrolyte is widened up to 5.50 V upon inclusion of ionic liquid, as proven in linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) study. Since ionic transference number of corn starch-based biopolymer electrolytes is 0.9993 which is close to 1, it proves that the conductivity is dominated by ionic movement. Electrical double layer capacitor (EDLC) fabricated using the most conducting ionic liquid-added biopolymer electrolyte exhibits better electrochemical performance. Based on CV analysis, the specific capacitance of EDLC fabricated is 3.26 F g−1 which is in good agreement with EIS and GCD findings. Based on the GCD findings, the columbic efficiency, energy density and power density of EDLC fabricated is 60%, 0.4 Wh kg−1 and 1.18 W kg−1, respectively.

TITLE: Trace Metals in Fish: A Case Study of Trace Metals in Fish from Selected Rivers of Langkawi Island by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

PUBLISHER: VDM Verlag Dr. Müller

SDG: 13, 14

CITATION: Shiau Huai Choong (2009). Trace Metals in Fish: A Case Study of Trace Metals in Fish from Selected Rivers of Langkawi Island by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy. VDM Verlag Dr. Müller

ABSTRACT:

Langkawi Island is one of the most popular tourism destinations in Malaysia and its rivers are important to the local citizens. Heavy metals are released into the aquatic environment via natural and anthropogenic influx, even low concentrations of these trace metals can cause serious toxic effects to organisms. Harmful substances released by the human activities will be accumulated in marine organisms through the food web. Hence, human health risks might be caused by consumption of seafood contaminated by toxic chemicals. This book, therefore, provides a study of fish quality from selected rivers of Langkawi Island on the safety in consuming local fisheries and also help to determine the ecological food chain of the surrounding population. This book providing basic knowledge of Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy, positive and negative effects of various heavy metals, experimental methodology and statistical analysis should be especially useful as a reference to professionals in Chemical Analysis, researchers and health professionals, or as light reading material for general readers.

TITLE: Stop Rewarding Traffic Offenders

SOURCE: The Star (27 October 2025)

SDG: 4, 11

CITATION: Chong Sheau Huey (2025). Stop Rewarding Traffic Offenders. The Star

NEWSPAPER ARTICLE:

I REFER to the recent announcement that beginning Jan 1, 2026, traffic offenders in Malaysia will receive discounts of up to 50% under a new system if they settle their summonses within 15 days(“Traffic offenders to get discounts based on how fast they pay, says Loke”, The Star, Oct 22; online atbit.ly/4osjRq4). While this may be intended to encourage prompt payment, such measures send the wrong message about accountability and road safety.

Offering discounts to those who break traffic laws undermines the seriousness of the offence and penalises law-abiding citizens who obey the rules. It conveys the impression that violations can be “bargained away” instead of treated as deterrents against reckless behaviour.

The offenders always wait for the last minute to pay the summonses because they know the police and Road Transport Department will hold discount campaigns periodically.

Malaysia is already one of the countries with the highest number of road accidents in the world. Instead of granting repeated amnesties or rebates, the authorities should focus on consistent enforcement, driver education, and stricter penalties for habitual offenders.

Reducing fines may increase short-term revenue collection, but it weakens long-term respect for the law and fails to address the root cause of road casualties.

If Malaysia is serious about improving road safety, we must stop rewarding offenders and start reinforcing a culture of responsibility, discipline, and respect for the law on our roads.