A third-year student from the Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology (MJIIT), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), has completed a 12-week international industrial training programme at Takasago Thermal Engineering Co., Ltd., Japan, gaining experience in engineering research, technological development and professional practices in a Japanese working environment.
Siti Aisyah Maizu, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Electronic Systems Engineering with Honours at MJIIT, undertook her training at the Takasago Thermal Engineering Innovation Center (TIC) in Tsukubamirai, Ibaraki, from July to October 2026. She was attached to the Research & Development Center – Thermal and Energy R&D Office under the supervision of Chief Research Engineer Ado Shigihara. Her placement involved research related to microalgae cultivation, carbon dioxide (CO₂) fixation and image-based monitoring, supporting Takasago’s work towards environmental and carbon-neutral technologies.
One of Aisyah’s main projects was the development of an automated, fixed-point image monitoring system for microalgae growth. The system integrated electronic hardware, programming, image processing and data analysis, using an Internet of Things (IoT)-based approach to support scheduled image acquisition and data visualisation.
Using a Raspberry Pi 5 and Camera Module 3, she configured a camera system to capture images of the microalgae culture at scheduled intervals. Python and OpenCV were used to analyse images and extract growth-related parameters, while a Node-RED dashboard enabled monitoring, visualisation of analysis results and experimental data management.
Alongside system development, Aisyah gained practical experience in microalgae cultivation, manual sampling and laboratory measurements, including turbidity, biomass concentration, pH and nutrient levels. This introduced her to experimental procedures beyond her usual coursework and helped her understand how engineering-based monitoring can complement conventional laboratory measurements.
Her training also exposed her to other areas of engineering practice at Takasago. She joined technical and research meetings, laboratory activities and company visits. At the headquarters in Shinjuku, Tokyo, she learned about Takasago’s history, operations and global activities. A visit to Takasago Shin-Academy in Akihabara introduced her to the company’s approach to employee training and professional development.
At a Takasago facility in Marunouchi, Tokyo, Aisyah observed applications of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) and district heating and cooling (DHC) systems in large buildings. The visit showed how thermal engineering, energy management and environmental control are applied in buildings. At T-Base in Yashio, Saitama, she learned about standardised off-site production, equipment preparation, logistics and digital systems supporting construction operations.
Aisyah also strengthened her technical communication skills by presenting her project at different stages of the placement. She shared her research progress with the CCUS Team and later presented her work during a visit to the Innovation Center by the UTM delegation, including Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ts. Dr. Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim and MJIIT Dean Assoc. Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Nurulakmar Abu Husain. The presentation covered the image acquisition, analysis and monitoring system and enabled her to discuss the project with university leaders and Takasago representatives.
On 24 September 2026, Aisyah presented her industrial training evaluation to her faculty supervisor, Dr. Siti Rahmah Aid, and other MJIIT lecturers from the TTES-I-Kohza. She presented her internship experience and project development to R&D Advisor Dr. Andreas Hauer on 29 September, followed by her final presentation at TIC on 30 September in the presence of TIC members and MJIIT lecturers.
“Being in a new environment taught me to observe, listen, and learn from the people around me. Even small things, like how colleagues communicate and work together, gave me a new perspective. It was an experience that pushed me to become more independent and open to learning,” Aisyah said.
Beyond technical work, she took part in activities with the Thermal & Energy R&D Office, including a community clean-up and an informal gathering with colleagues. These activities helped her connect with Japanese colleagues and communicate across different backgrounds. Outside work, she explored Japanese culture at Tsukuba Mountain, Enoshima and Kamakura, watched the Tsukuba Nebuta Parade and witnessed a traditional Shinto wedding ceremony at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.
Reflecting on the placement, Aisyah said it helped her see how engineering knowledge can be applied beyond the classroom.
“During my internship, I realised that being an engineer is not just about what we learn or the technical skills we have. It is also about learning to work with others, adapting to new situations, and being open to different ways of thinking. Living and working in a different environment taught me a lot about myself, too, and helped me become more independent and confident.”
Throughout the programme, Aisyah gained practical experience in programming, image processing, hardware integration, experimental work, data analysis and technical communication. She also saw how engineering disciplines can address real-world research problems, while strengthening her independence, adaptability and confidence.
Aisyah expressed her appreciation to UTM, particularly MJIIT, for the opportunity to undertake international industrial training. She thanked Takasago Thermal Engineering, TIC, Chief Research Engineer Ado Shigihara, TIC members Yoshida Kentarou and Yoshida Yuto, the CCUS Team, MJIIT lecturers, family and friends for their guidance and support.
The training at Takasago Thermal Engineering marked a meaningful chapter in Aisyah’s academic journey. By combining research, industrial exposure, technical communication and cultural experience, the placement broadened her perspective on engineering and provided lessons she can carry into her future academic and professional pursuits.
