The Faculty of Engineering, Hasanuddin University, in collaboration with the Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology (FSKTM), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), successfully organized Tech4Good 2026 on 3–4 June 2026. The international program combined academic exchange and community engagement to strengthen global collaboration in education, research, and technological innovation.

The program consisted of two main activities: the International Symposium on AI, Immersive Reality and Cybersecurity (AIRC 2026) at the Faculty of Engineering, Hasanuddin University, and the International Collaborative Community Service conducted at MAN 2 Makassar and MTsN 1 Makassar. Organized by the Global Engagement Office (GEO), the initiative reflected the Faculty's commitment to connecting academic excellence with meaningful social impact.

The symposium opened at the Center of Technology (COT) Building with welcoming remarks from Dr. Novy NRA Mokobombang, representing the organizing committee. She emphasized that AIRC 2026 not only facilitated knowledge exchange in Artificial Intelligence, Immersive Reality, and Cybersecurity, but also introduced postgraduate study and scholarship opportunities at Universiti Putra Malaysia.

In his opening address, Prof. Dr. Eng. Muh. Isran Ramli, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Hasanuddin University, expressed his appreciation for the strong partnership with Universiti Putra Malaysia. He highlighted that international collaboration is essential for producing innovative research capable of addressing global technological challenges. Similar appreciation was conveyed by Dato' Prof. Dr. Shamala K., Dean of FSKTM, Universiti Putra Malaysia.

The keynote session featured Dr. Nor Azura Husin from Universiti Putra Malaysia and Prof. Dr. Eng. Muhammad Niswar from Hasanuddin University. They discussed recent developments, research opportunities, and practical applications of Artificial Intelligence, Immersive Reality, and Cybersecurity in supporting digital transformation across various sectors.

Participants also attended a Research Program Sharing Session, where FSKTM Universiti Putra Malaysia introduced several postgraduate programs, including Master's degrees in Computer Science, Computer Network, Intelligent Systems, and Data Science. The session also highlighted opportunities for international research collaboration and scholarship programs.

The symposium continued with Parallel Research Presentation Sessions organized into four tracks: Computer Engineering Application, Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, Immersive Reality, and Cybersecurity. Researchers from both universities presented their latest findings, exchanged ideas, and explored future collaborative research initiatives.

Following the symposium, Tech4Good 2026 extended its impact through International Collaborative Community Service activities at MAN 2 Makassar and MTsN 1 Makassar. The outreach program introduced secondary school students to emerging digital technologies while encouraging creativity, innovation, and responsible technology use.

At both schools, lecturers and delegates from Hasanuddin University and Universiti Putra Malaysia delivered interactive workshops covering Artificial Intelligence (AI), Generative AI, Internet of Things (IoT), Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), Hologram Technology, Digital Cinematography, 3D Stereoscopic Technology, Cybersecurity Awareness, and Human–Computer Interaction (HCI) Ethics.

Students enthusiastically participated in hands-on demonstrations, allowing them to directly experience modern technologies and develop a deeper understanding of digital innovation. The activities were designed to enhance digital literacy while inspiring students to pursue future studies and careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Throughout the program, representatives from both universities emphasized that international collaboration should extend beyond academic research by creating tangible benefits for society. The integration of symposium activities with community service demonstrated how universities can contribute to technological education and sustainable community development.

Through Tech4Good 2026, Hasanuddin University and Universiti Putra Malaysia successfully strengthened their international partnership while promoting education, research, innovation, and community engagement. The program serves as a model of global collaboration that not only advances academic excellence but also empowers younger generations with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the digital era.