29 January 2026 — Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) is organising the Putra True North Carnival from 29 to 30 January 2026 in conjunction with the Universiti Putra Malaysia Vice Chancellor’s Address and Mandate 2026. The event is taking place at the Main Hall of the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Arts and Cultural Centre and brings together a wide range of exhibitions, demonstrations, sales booths, forums, and health screening services for the campus community.

Among the featured exhibitions at the Main Hall is the showcase of the project “Eyes on the River (EYER), AI-Powered Water Speed Measurement for River Surge Monitoring,” led by the Director of the PUTRA International Centre (i-PUTRA), Professor Dr Alyani Ismail.

Developed by Professor Dr Alyani from the Faculty of Engineering. EYER combines wireless communication, Internet of Things (IoT) technology, and artificial intelligence (AI) to measure river water speed in a non-intrusive and efficient manner. The system is designed to support early detection of river surges, commonly known as kepala air, which pose serious risks during periods of heavy rainfall.

EYER operates by analysing video footage using optical flow algorithms that track pixel movement across frames to estimate water velocity. Artificial intelligence models further enhance accuracy by identifying flow patterns, while image processing techniques improve motion detection. The system processes video data in real time and utilises cloud computing to ensure scalability and consistent performance.

Conventional methods of measuring water speed often involve high maintenance costs, lengthy procedures, dependence on weather conditions, and extensive manual labour. EYER addresses these challenges through an AI-powered video analysis approach that enables fast, reliable, and non-contact measurement. By integrating optical flow techniques with machine learning, the system enables automated, continuous monitoring without physical sensors, even under extreme conditions.

The application of EYER extends to real-time risk assessment, supporting rescue teams in evaluating water danger levels and reducing risks to both rescuers and flood victims. The technology also enables large-scale data collection on water flow, contributing to flood prediction, climate change studies, and long-term water resource management. Its sensor-free design offers a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to traditional monitoring systems.

The impact of EYER is reflected in its potential to enhance public safety by providing early flood warnings, reducing drowning incidents, and supporting safer rescue operations. In addition, the availability of accurate and real-time hydrological data strengthens efforts in sustainable water management, environmental planning, and climate research.

With strong market potential, EYER is relevant to government and disaster management agencies, the infrastructure and hydropower sectors, eco-park operators, and smart city and environmental monitoring initiatives. Through this project, Professor Dr Alyani Ismail, in her role as Director of i-PUTRA, highlights the importance of research leadership in advancing innovative solutions that address critical environmental and safety challenges.

Date of Input: 05/01/2026 | Updated: 03/02/2026 | nurulshabila