INGENIEUR
PRESIDENT ’ S MESSAGE
The European Chemical Industry Council ( CEFIC ) views the chemical industry as one of the largest and most diversified industries in the world and supplies almost all sectors of the economy . The World Bank noted that virtually every man-made product involves the use of intentionally produced chemicals in some manner , and thousands are produced and new ones developed every year in response to demand for new and improved products . While chemicals contribute to resolving many modern issues , they are also associated with problems relating to unintentionally produced by-products , waste generation and disposal , environmental contamination , and human and wildlife exposure due to the production , use and release of the thousands of chemical formulations and products in the marketplace .
The above summarises the importance of chemical engineering in its contribution to the economy as well as the need to ensure environmental sustainability . The theme of Chemical Engineering chosen for this issue serves to reflect the contribution of chemical engineers in this area .
Environmental concerns are well addressed in the article on ‘ Chemical Industry Management System ’ ( CIMS ) in the implementation of sustainable development goals in terms of protection of human health and environment . The article highlighted that 24 % of the chemicals imported or manufactured in Malaysia are carcinogenic chemicals . The establishment of CIMS assists in enhancing data collection and data sharing for sound management of chemicals in Malaysia .
On the local front , the opportunities and risks of manufacturing industries need to be addressed in line with Malaysia ’ s own development strategy in
Chemical Engineering
addressing the three pillars of sustainability . This is well elaborated in the article on ‘ Mainstream Sustainability in the Chemical Industry ’ which considers the roadmap by World Business Council on Sustainable Development ( WBCSD ) as a good reference point which can be tailored to suit the Malaysian scene such as biodiversity richness , biobased resources , renewable energy , and an agile and talented workforce . While many big players such as multinationals and their local principals are already on board , it is the small and medium enterprises ( SMEs ) that need to be helped . This is where Sustainable Development Goal ( SDG ) plays a key role in fostering partnerships across all stakeholders .
It is interesting to note the American Institute of Chemical Engineers ’ view that the chemical process industries ( CPI ) and the chemical engineering profession are not always viewed by the public as being very innovative . The public lacks understanding of the key role chemical engineering innovation plays in providing food , water , energy , and goods to consumers . To remain viable and competitive , the CPI must innovate every day — beyond just standard research and development ( R & D ) activities .
Taking an overall view , I believe there are an increasing number of innovations being undertaken by chemical engineers such as new technology batteries for EV , solar or PV products enhancement and so on .
Wishing all readers Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Fitri . Stay Home and Stay Safe .
Dato ’ Ir . Haji Mohamad Zulkefly bin Sulaiman President , BEM
4 VOL 86 APRIL-JUNE 2021