Latest news with #IEM
Boston Globe
3 days ago
- Climate
- Boston Globe
So far, 2025 has been the windiest year on record for Boston, statistics show
But here's the alarming stat — Boston is currently seeing the gustiest year on record and by a long shot, averaging nearly 10 miles per hour above the average dating back to when Logan Airport started recording wind data in 1936. 2025 is pacing over 2 mph stronger than the previous record set in 2010, averaging 32.64 mph. Advertisement Boston is averaging the highest wind gusts on record through the first five and a half months in 2025. IEM If you're wondering the difference between wind speed and wind gust here's a quick breakdown. Wind speed is determined by the average flow during a minimum two-minute stretch while gusts are recorded as sudden, instantaneous increases in wind that can last anywhere between a few seconds and 30 seconds. Wind gusts are a bit more accurate, and certainly more noticeable, in painting the picture of what the wind is like out there during any given day. Look at Boston's top seven gustiest years between January 1 and June 15. Notice how all of them are in the past 16 years, a hint towards a warming atmosphere that has made our weather patterns a bit more extreme. Advertisement The top seven average wind gust speed across Logan Airport from January 1 through June 15. Boston Globe As far as sustained wind speeds in Boston, this year has been above the 30-year average but below the overall average of the 89-year data set available at Logan. This year's wind speed has averaged 12.28 mph, the highest since 2000. Sustained wind speeds at Boston's Logan Airport have been the highest since 2000. Boston Globe What's the reason behind the strong wind gusts this year? The answer jumps out if you think about the above wind speed and wind gust charts, why such a dramatic jump? Well, we've simply seen more storms this year. 'Wind is essentially air moving from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure,' said the National Weather Service in Norton, Mass. It's a simple but effective reason. Storms are comprised of areas of low pressure and follow along the jet stream. This year, the jet stream has been positioned very close to Boston, mainly because there is no influence from naturally occurring weather patterns like El Niño or La Niña. Conditions have been neutral, which makes the jet steam behave a bit more erratic. This year, there has only been a handful of occasions where the jet stream was more than 200 miles away from New England. An example of the jet stream this Spring, sliding a storm close to Boston. Boston Globe With it closer to Boston, more storms are slinging across the region. Do I need to refer to the current rainy weekend streak that we're on? With more storms passing closer to the city, we see more instances of stronger winds. We also have seen a stronger North Atlantic high pressure, which naturally bows the jet stream to the north, paralleling the New England coast. A stronger high has allowed storms to strengthen as they pull away from Boston. This increases the pressure gradient and we've seen the resulting jump in stronger wind gusts. Advertisement If you increase the angle at which high pressure flows to low pressure, then you get more speed. We'll likely see the winds calm down a bit the deeper we get into summer. This tends to occur naturally as temperature differences between air masses decrease and wind speeds relax a bit. But until then, you'll want to hold onto your hats. Ken Mahan can be reached at
Borneo Post
6 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
IEM Sabah Branch marks golden jubilee in grand fashion
Tun Musa, with Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya, Mohd Yaakob, Chiang and IEM Sabah committee members cutting the anniversary cake. KOTA KINABALU (June 15): The Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Sabah Branch commemorated its 50th golden jubilee with a grand celebration, honouring five decades of engineering excellence, leadership and impact in the state of Sabah. The prestigious event was graced by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sabah, Tun Datuk Seri Panglima (Dr) Musa bin Haji Aman, and Toh Puan Datin Seri Panglima Datuk Hajah Faridah binti Haji Tussin, whose attendance lent added prestige to the historic evening. Under the theme '50 Years of Engineering Excellence (1975–2025),' the celebration brought together engineers, dignitaries, government leaders and partners from across Malaysia to reflect on the profound journey of IEM Sabah — from humble beginnings in 1975 to its current role as a vital force in the state's professional and socio-economic landscape. In his opening address, Ir. Ts. Mohd Yaakob Jaafar, chairman of IEM Sabah Branch, expressed deep appreciation for the contributions of past and present leaders, committee members and members. 'This celebration marks not only the passing of time but the enduring spirit of a professional community dedicated to building Sabah's future,' he said. 'Our strength lies in our unity, our passion, and our shared commitment to engineering progress for the betterment of society.' Yaakob, who joined the IEM Sabah Branch in 2009 and has served as chairman since 2024, highlighted the Branch's successful hosting of CAFEO 42 in October 2024 as a recent milestone that showcased Sabah's engineering leadership on the ASEAN stage. He reaffirmed IEM Sabah's commitment to promoting professional excellence, enhancing public understanding of engineering, and inspiring the next generation of engineers. Ir. Prof. Dr. Jeffrey Chiang President of IEM, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Sabah Branch, noting its steady growth to nearly 2,000 members and its consistent excellence in representing the engineering profession. 'This golden jubilee is more than a celebration — it is a tribute to resilience, professional integrity, and public service,' he remarked. Reflecting on Sabah's unique challenges as a geographically vast and ecologically rich state, Dr Chiang acknowledged the dedication of committee members who have balanced full-time careers with voluntary service to the profession. 'Your commitment is a beacon for younger generations and a model for our future,' he said. He also connected the occasion to IEM's national mission, noting the Institution's recent 66th anniversary themed 'ESG Engineering for a Greener Tomorrow.' He emphasized the importance of sustainability and innovation, and the Sabah Branch's key role in driving these principles at the state level. Ir. Nicolas Lim, organising chairman of the golden jubilee dinner, delivered a heartfelt tribute to the many individuals and communities that have shaped Sabah's engineering landscape over the decades. 'Fifty years ago, we had limited tools but unlimited ambition. Today, we see the results all around us — in the roads, bridges, schools, and communities that have grown stronger through engineering,' he said. He paid homage to Sabah's pioneering engineers and the spirit of innovation that has defined the state's engineering progress, highlighting the profession's crucial role in balancing development with environmental stewardship and cultural respect. All three speakers echoed a common vision — one of continued growth, deeper collaboration with government and industry, and unwavering commitment to uplifting lives through engineering. From infrastructure and innovation to energy and safety, IEM Sabah Branch is poised to continue being a catalyst for change. The evening concluded with a call to action for engineers, especially the younger generation, to carry the torch forward into the next 50 years — embracing emerging technologies, nurturing new talent, and remaining steadfast in the pursuit of excellence. As Sabah continues to grow, the IEM Sabah Branch stands proudly at the heart of its progress — a community of professionals building not just structures, but legacies. Also present at the dinner was Deputy Chief Minister cum Works Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya.
Borneo Post
7 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
IEM Sabah celebrates golden jubilee with renewed vision
Tan Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Noor (fifth right) receiving the AFEO Distinguished Honorary Fellow from the president of The Institution of Engineers, Malaysia (IEM), Ir. Prof. Dr Jeffrey Chiang Choong Luin in 2024. On 14 June 2025, the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Sabah Branch proudly celebrates its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of steadfast commitment to engineering excellence, community service, and national development. Since its establishment in 1975, IEM Sabah has played a pivotal role in shaping the professional landscape of engineering in the state, promoting innovation, ethics, and unity across disciplines. This golden jubilee is a moment not only of celebration but of reflection — honouring those who built the past, empowered the present, and will guide the future. IEM Training Centre in Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park. The Beginning: 1975 The year 1975 marked the founding of IEM Sabah by a dedicated group of pioneering engineers. Their vision was to advocate for the professional advancement of engineers in Sabah, romote technical excellence and ethical practice, serve as a collective voice for engineering matters in state development. From humble beginnings, IEM Sabah laid a strong foundation, establishing itself as a critical stakeholder in infrastructure planning, public safety and professional education. Building Momentum: 1980s–1990s During the 1980s and 1990s, IEM Sabah focused on capacity-building, networking, and advocacy. Key achievements included organising regular technical talks, short courses and site visits; collaborating with government agencies such as JKR, DID and local councils; launching training programs for graduate engineers pursuing professional registration. The move into a permanent secretariat further enhanced administrative capabilities, enabling better member services and public engagement. Recognition and Regional Influence: 2000–2010 The early 2000s heralded a new era of prestige and influence for IEM Sabah. In 2001, Datuk Seri Panglima Tham Nyip Shen, then Deputy Chief Minister of Sabah, was conferred the IEM Honorary Fellowship Award. In 2008, Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Aman, the then Chief Minister of Sabah, received the IEM Honorary Fellowship Award, a recognition of his role in driving major infrastructure projects and policies that strengthened the engineering landscape in Sabah. A Decade of Outreach and Transformation: 2010–2019 This decade saw IEM Sabah grow in depth and diversity, with an emphasis on youth leadership, gender inclusivity, and public awareness. YES (Young Engineers Section) and WE (Women Engineers) organized impactful programs including innovation camps, public speaking workshops, and school career talks. Annual seminars, charity events, and policy advocacy shaped engineering discourse and community impact. Resilience Amid Crisis: Covid-19 Pandemic (2020) The Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 disrupted lives and economies globally. IEM Sabah showed leadership and compassion during this crisis by donating face masks and PPE to Queen Elizabeth Hospital and one unit freezer to the Kota Kinabalu Health Department. WE has voluntarily provided the foods to the Covid-19 patients in Likas detention centre. Despite the Movement Control Order (MCO) restrictions, technical webinars and online CPD programs continued. A Historic Milestone: Hosting CAFEO 42 in 2024 In 2024, IEM Sabah hosted the 42nd Conference of the ASEAN Federation of Engineering Organisations (CAFEO 42) at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), welcoming 1,500 engineers from 10 ASEAN nations. Key awards were presented to Distinguished Honorary Patron: former TYT Tun Datuk Seri Panglima (Dr) Juhar Mahiruddin, Distinguished Honorary Fellow: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Noor, Honorary Fellow: Datuk Ir. Shahelmey Yahya Deputy Chief Minister III cum Minister of Works One of IEM Sabah's most visionary achievements is the establishment of the IEM Training Centre at the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP).
Daily Express
7 days ago
- Business
- Daily Express
Institution of Engineers Malaysia Sabah turns 50
Published on: Saturday, June 14, 2025 Published on: Sat, Jun 14, 2025 By: Ir Ts Tan KJ, Vice Chairman 1 IEM Sabah Text Size: IEM Sabah is committed to advancing climate resilience, smart infrastructure, inclusivity, and community-based development. Emphasis will be placed on upskilling in AI and BIM, mentorship for young engineers, and sustainable infrastructure for rural communities. ON June 14, the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) Sabah Branch proudly celebrates its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of steadfast commitment to engineering excellence, community service, and national development. Since its establishment in 1975, IEM Sabah has played a pivotal role in shaping the professional landscape of engineering in the state, promoting innovation, ethics, and unity across disciplines. Advertisement This Golden Jubilee is a moment not only of celebration but of reflection – honouring those who built the past, empowered the present, and will guide the future. The Beginning: 1975 The year 1975 marked the founding of IEM Sabah by a dedicated group of pioneering engineers. Their vision was to: Advocate for the professional advancement of engineers in Sabah. Promote technical excellence and ethical practice. Serve as a collective voice for engineering matters in state development. From humble beginnings, IEM Sabah laid a strong foundation, establishing itself as a critical stakeholder in infrastructure planning, public safety, and professional education. Building Momentum: 1980s–1990s During the 1980s and 1990s, IEM Sabah focused on capacity-building, networking, and advocacy. Key achievements included: Organising regular technical talks, short courses, and site visits. Collaborating with government agencies such as JKR, DID, and local councils. Launching training programs for Graduate Engineers pursuing professional registration. The move into a permanent Secretariat further enhanced administrative capabilities, enabling better member services and public engagement. Recognition and Regional Influence: 2000-2010 The early 2000s heralded a new era of prestige and influence for IEM Sabah. In 2001, YB DSP Tham Nyip Shen, then Deputy Chief Minister of Sabah, was conferred the IEM Honorary Fellowship Award. In 2008, Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Aman, the then Chief Minister of Sabah, received the IEM Honorary Fellowship Award, a recognition of his role in driving major infrastructure projects and policies that strengthened the engineering landscape in Sabah. A Decade of Outreach and Transformation: 2010-2019 This decade saw IEM Sabah grow in depth and diversity, with an emphasis on youth leadership, gender inclusivity, and public awareness. YES (Young Engineers Section) and WE (Women Engineers) organized impactful programs including innovation camps, public speaking workshops, and school career talks. Annual seminars, charity events, and policy advocacy shaped engineering discourse and community impact. Resilience Amid Crisis: Covid-19 Pandemic (2020) The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 disrupted lives and economies globally. IEM Sabah showed leadership and compassion during this crisis by donating face masks and PPE to Queen Elizabeth Hospital and one unit freezer to Jabatan Kesihatan Kota Kinabalu. WE has voluntarily provided the foods to the Covid-19 patients in Likas Detention centre. Despite MCO restrictions, technical webinars and online CPD programs continued. A Historic Milestone: Hosting CAFEO 42 in 2024 In 2024, IEM Sabah hosted the 42nd Conference of the ASEAN Federation of Engineering Organisations (Cafeo42) at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), welcoming 1,500 engineers from 10 Asean nations. Key awards were presented to: Distinguished Honorary Patron: former TYT Tun DSP (Dr) Juhar Mahiruddin Distinguished Honorary Fellow: CM YAB Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Noor Honorary Fellow: YB Datuk Ir. Shahelmey Yahya Deputy CM III cum Minister of Work The IEM Training Centre at KKIP One of IEM Sabah's most visionary achievements is the establishment of the IEM Training Centre at KKIP. With a generous grant of RM500,000 provided by the Right Honourable CM YAB Tan Sri DSP Musa Aman in 2012, construction began with strong support from donors and professionals. The centre, officially opened on 15 June 2015, provides specialised training and courses in oil and gas-related fields, ensuring Sabah engineers remain competitive globally. IEM Sabah extends its sincere appreciation to all who contributed to making this centre a reality. 50 Years of Progress and Purpose From 1975 to 2025, IEM Sabah has evolved into a professional body supporting over 2,100 active members and hosting more than 40 technical events annually. Key contributions include promoting registration, linking academia with industry, and advocating for sustainable engineering. Looking Forward: The Next 50 Years IEM Sabah is committed to advancing climate resilience, smart infrastructure, inclusivity, and community-based development. Emphasis will be placed on upskilling in AI and BIM, mentorship for young engineers, and sustainable infrastructure for rural communities. In Conclusion The Golden Jubilee of IEM Sabah is a testament to the commitment, vision, and integrity of engineers who have shaped our state. On 14 June 2025, as we honour this journey, we renew our pledge to serve with excellence, innovate with purpose, and lead with responsibility. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
07-06-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
3D printing: A new horizon for local econ
Published on: Saturday, June 07, 2025 Published on: Sat, Jun 07, 2025 By: Ir Dr Chua Bih Lii, IEM Text Size: Entrepreneurs can make products with local motifs. Tourists may soon bring home personalized souvenirs with native designs, unique pots and sculptures using sustainable plastic. Moving forward, it can be marketed worldwide via online platforms. IN year 2006, the movie 'Mission: Impossible III' featured a 3D printed mask fabricated based on a 3D scan of Phillip Hoffman's character for Tom Cruise's Ethan Hunt to wear. The three-dimensional (3D) printing has leapt from science fiction to factory floors and even into our homes during the last decades. This transformative technology has enabled people from students to surgeons, to produce objects with unprecedented ease and customization. Advertisement From Bones to Buildings: Real-World Wonders One of the most impactful applications of 3D printing is in the medical field. Doctors today use 3D-printed titanium plates and polymer-based splints for complex fractures such as skull and hip, improving recovery and comfort. The field of organ printing is pushing scientific boundaries even further. Researchers have successfully printed human tissues like liver and skin using bio-inks made from living cells experimentally, paving the way for future on-demand organ replacements. In aerospace, companies like General Electric (GE) have been printing fuel nozzles for jet engine that are 25% lighter and five times more durable than conventionally manufactured ones. Advertisement In space exploration, an American aerospace startup, has successfully launched a rocket made almost entirely from 3D-printed components in 2023, cutting down production time from years to weeks. In the culinary world, 3D-printed food is transforming how meals are made. Machines can now print chocolate, pasta, and plant-based meats. In Bristol, scientists have developed 3D-printed meals with customized textures and nutrition for patients with dysphagia, a medical condition that makes swallowing difficult. On the larger scale, construction firms in the Netherlands, China, and Dubai have completed full-scale buildings using giant 3D concrete printers. This technology offers potential solutions to housing shortages by reducing labour and material costs significantly. Accessible Technology for All The widespread availability of 3D printers today is largely thanks to the expiration of two major patents: fused deposition modeling (FDM) and stereolithography apparatus (SLA). These advancements have driven down the cost of printers and opened the doors to schools, universities, and hobbyists. Technically known as 'additive manufacturing', 3D printing works by adding material layer by layer to build a 3D object directly from a digital file. This stands in contrast to traditional subtractive and formative manufacturing, which relies on cutting, drilling, molding and forging materials into shape. There are seven distinct additive manufacturing processes defined by the ISO standard. FDM is the most affordable form of 3D printing. It works by melting a thermoplastic filament and extruding it through a heated nozzle. The printer lays down the material layer by layer on a build platform, where it cools and solidifies. Meanwhile, SLA uses a laser or ultraviolet (UV) light to cure liquid resin at high precision and result in smooth finishes, making them ideal for dental models, jewellery, and intricate figurines. The future of 3D printing lies beyond basic plastic. High-performance materials such as PEKK, ULTEM, ceramics, metal powders, and carbon-fiber composites are now being used for functional industrial parts, from aerospace components to surgical tools. These materials opening new frontiers in engineering by offering greater strength, heat resistance, and biocompatibility. Advantages of 3D Printing Unlike conventional manufacturing, which often wastes materials through cutting and shaping, 3D printing uses only the amount of material needed. Additionally, it allows manufacturing on demand, eliminating the need for large inventories or overseas shipping. This has enabled many home business startups during the Covid-19. From the perspective of engineering, the design freedom given by the 3D printing is unmatched. Complex geometries and custom features designed by engineers can be printed directly without special tools or molds. Malaysia's Growing 3D Printing Economy In Malaysia, innovative individuals and startups are already turning 3D printing into profitable ventures. For instance, a Penang-based entrepreneur produces custom-fit insoles and orthotics using foot scans and 3D printers. In Kuala Lumpur, a company creates architectural models for developers. Besides, a company in Selangor designs and prints 3D implants for hospitals. Several companies offer design and printing services for production jigs, inspection fixtures, and prototypes. Meanwhile, small home-bound businesses offer personalized 3D-printed home decors and gifts, such as designers' lamps, photo frames, nameplates and toys, through online platforms. Can Sabah Benefit from the 3D Printing Revolution? Sabah's economy traditionally relies on tourism, agriculture, oil and gas, and manufacturing. The 3D printing can help to complement the existing economic sector by providing diversified options and modernization of the local industry. Entrepreneurs can make products with local motifs. Tourists may soon bring home personalized souvenirs with native designs, unique pots and sculptures using sustainable plastic. Moving forward, it can be marketed worldwide via online platforms. Local artisans and film studios can make fantastical art pieces and iconic mask using 3D printing technology to support the creative industry, just like Marvel did for Black Panther, Deadpool and Iron Man. Local workshops can reproduce rare or discontinued machine parts for factories and plantations. The development of 3D printing industry in Sabah will help to support the regional needs of critical components. For example, Shell Jurong Island, a dedicated chemical manufacturing facility in Singapore able to replace their critical heat exchanger parts by engaging 3D metal printing technology that delivers within two weeks manufacturing lead time. Besides, 3D printed molds, jigs and fixtures can support the needs of local manufacturers. Engineers can innovate new tools, components and customized machines for agricultural industries, and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Several examples include 3D printed fruit pluckers, impellers, and small machineries. Talents for the Transformation To drive this digital transformation, we need a new generation of entrepreneurs and problem-solvers who can creatively apply 3D printing. They will spearhead the Malaysia's future innovations. Equally vital are 3D part designers, who must be adept in computer-aided design (CAD), finite element simulation, and structural optimization. They, with mechanical engineering background, will translate ideas and concepts into printable reality. Design strategies and production planning are needed for large quantity and quality production. Material engineers play a key role in developing and refining printable materials that meet various industrial standards, in term of strength, safety, or sustainability. Finally, mechanical and manufacturing engineers are needed to integrate 3D printing innovations into traditional production lines for improving quality control, efficiency and productivity. They are responsible from material selections to the in-house 3D printed product qualification to ensure the printed components are suitable. Conclusion With internet access and open-source platforms, all parts of Malaysia shall be able to participate in the global digital manufacturing movement. By embracing 3D printing, states like Sabah can bridge the technological divide with industrial states and create a uniquely local version of Industry 4.0. # Ir Dr Chua Bih Lii is a Senior Lecturer at Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaysia Sabah and Sabah Branch Chairman of Technological Association Malaysia * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
