BANDUNG – The Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) community extends its deepest condolences on the passing of Ir. Akhmad Zainal Abidin, M.Sc., Ph.D., a lecturer and researcher in the Chemical Engineering Study Program, Faculty of Industrial Technology. He passed away on November 23, 2025, leaving behind a wife and five children. His legacy is marked by a long record of service in higher education, polymer research, and circular economy-oriented waste management innovation—contributions that have yielded widespread benefits for both society and industry.

The deceased was born in Cirebon on September 2, 1962. His academic journey began with Chemical Engineering at ITB, which he completed in 1987, followed by master's studies in the field of Polymer Science and Technology di University of Manchester, England (1991), and a doctorate in Polymer Engineering at The University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology (UMIST), UK (1996). This scientific background served as a solid foundation for his work as a polymer scientist, consistently developing research from upstream to downstream—spanning everything from the laboratory to real-world applications.

Upon returning from his doctoral studies, he embarked on a long career at ITB, fulfilling the "Tri Dharma" (Three Pillars) of higher education. One of the key roles he undertook was Head of the Polymer and Membrane Technology Laboratory within ITB’s Department of Chemical Engineering. In the academic sphere, he was known as a dedicated teacher, a patient mentor, and an open-minded discussion partner, fostering a tradition of polymer research that was both practical in application and fundamentally robust. At various times, he also contributed to strengthening Chemical Engineering education beyond the main campus, including serving as the Head of the Chemical Engineering Study Program at the Sumatra Institute of Technology (ITERA) from 2019 to 2022.

His area of ​​expertise is rooted in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science and Technology, as well as Polymer EngineeringIn his research, he pays much attention to strengthening the function and processing technology of polymers for industrial and environmental needs: from superabsorbent polymer, eco-friendly materials, natural rubber processing technology, and various other polymer technologies. Their scientific productivity is reflected in a series of national and international publications and presentations spanning more than a decade, frequently involving collaborations with students, young researchers, and industry partners.

One of the legacies most widely recognized by the public is the creation of MASARO (Zero Waste Management) technology. Originating from laboratory-scale research, he designed an integrated waste management system that combines depolymerization technology, residue processing, and the conversion of organic waste into fertilizer or animal feed. This initiative went beyond mere theory, evolving into a movement with implementation units across various cities and regencies, thereby reinforcing his conviction that research must serve as a tangible solution to the nation's challenges. The MASARO innovation journey also yielded over a dozen patents and intellectual property rights—spanning waste processing, polymer technology, and derivative products—some of which have been granted, forming the foundation for the MASARO waste processing industrial ecosystem.

Beyond the academic sphere, he is active in professional organizations and industry networks, serving—among other roles—as Chairman of the Indonesian Polymer Society (2001–2004), a member of the Steering Board for *Majalah Polimer Indonesia* (Indonesian Polymer Magazine), and an official in various national polymer and plastics industry associations. He has also been entrusted with leading and participating in numerous strategic national initiatives, ranging from the formulation of the National Industrial Policy and the National Industrial Development Master Plan (RIPIN) to the development of a petrochemical center of excellence and the roadmap for Indonesia’s petrochemical industry. At the implementation level, he has led numerous feasibility studies, designs, and the construction of MASARO waste processing facilities across various regions, collaborating with local governments, ministries, state-owned enterprises (BUMN), and international partners.

His long-standing dedication has garnered appreciation from various quarters. Among the awards he has received are the Satyalancana Karya Satya, the ITB Service Badge, the HPI Award, and the ITB Innovation Award. He never viewed these accolades as an ultimate goal, but rather as reminders of his responsibility to continue serving knowledge, the nation, and the environment.

Farewell, Mr. Zainal. Your passing is a great loss to ITB and the Indonesian polymer science community; however, the legacy of your dedication will endure through your work, the students you mentored, and the society that has benefited from your innovations.

May his devotional deeds and all his efforts be accepted by God Almighty, and the family left behind will be given strength and fortitude.