BINTULU: SOP Edible Oils here has reinforced its commitment to talent development by hosting a focused academic-industry strengthening exercise for students from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Bintulu Campus.
Over 20 students, led by ChM Dr Sivasangar Seenivasagam of the Department of Basic Science & Engineering, took part in the industrial visit designed to deepen their understanding of the palm oil and oleochemical sectors. The initiative forms part of SOP’s broader strategy to enhance industry-academic collaboration through real-world learning opportunities.
The students were introduced to the operational workings of the refinery through a technical briefing by SOP’s in-house engineer, followed by a guided tour. A highlight of the visit was a hands-on demonstration that covered product processing, modelling, and packaging — providing participants with a practical view of how palm oil is transformed into daily-use consumer products.
Dr Sivasangar described the visit as a valuable strengthening platform: “This industrial-academic visit significantly enhances my students’ understanding of the oleochemical industry through direct, real-world exposure.”
SOP Edible Oils continues to champion educational initiatives aimed at equipping future professionals with the practical skills and industry insight needed to thrive in Malaysia’s evolving agro-based economy.