Biography
Dr. Ili Farhana Md Mahtar has received her PhD in Computer Science from University of York, United Kingdom (UK). During her doctoral study, she had actively participated in few European research grants for the role of participants and expert evaluator. Based on her expertise in User Experience (UX) design and Usability Testing, she had also been invited to contribute her expert knowledge in research from Malaysia and international public universities. As an educator, Dr. Ili Farhana is passionate about making technology accessible and meaningful for learners of all backgrounds. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes active learning, creativity, and digital integration, often incorporating tools to promote interactive and collaborative classroom experiences. Beyond academia, Dr. Ili Farhana is an Apple Professional Learning Specialist (APLS), where she supports educators in leveraging Apple technologies to enhance teaching and learning experiences. She frequently conducts workshops and training sessions on UX/UI design, digital creativity, and educational innovation, guiding educators and students alike in using technology effectively and ethically.
Research Interest
Human-Computer Interaction, Usability, User Experience, Accessibility, Data Visualization, Internet of Things
Educational Background
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Computer Science, University of York (2020)
Master of Information Technology (Systems Science & Management), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (2011)
Bachelor of Information Technology with Honours (Systems Science & Management), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (2007)
Working Experience
Head of Programme (Cybersecurity), Xiamen University Malaysia (2025 – present)
Senior Lecturer, Xiamen University Malaysia (2025 – present)
Lecturer, Xiamen University Malaysia (2020 – 2024)
Lecturer, SEGi College Subang Jaya (2019 – 2020)
Lecturer, YPC International College (2010 – 2014)
Computer Programmer, Multimedia Consulting Sdn. Bhd. (2007 – 2007)
Research Experience
Paper Reviewer (2025), 7th National Symposium on Human-Computer Interaction 2025 (FUSION2025)
Co-researcher (2025), Lightweight Malay Large Language Model for IoT Edge, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Amount: RM 90,000
Research Instrument Verifier (2025), Graduate School, Naresuan University
Research Expert (2025), Fakulti Komputeran dan Informatik, Universiti Malaysia Sabah
Paper Reviewer (2021), 4th Edition of Future Smart Cities, International Experts for Research Enrichment and Knowledge Exchange (IEREK)
Graduate Research Assistant (2008 – 2010). FRGS: A Framework for Adaptive Web-based Multimedia, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia UKM), Amount: RM 28,000
Representative Publications
Mahtar, I. F. M., & Zin, N. A. M. (2010). Mathematical knowledge representation for education semantic web based on learning style. In International Symposium on Information Technology 2010 (Vol. 1, pp. 1-4).
Petrie, H. & Mahtar, I. F. M. (2019). Effects of Menu Organization and Visibility on Web Navigation for People with Dyslexia. In International Conference on Human-Computer Interaction, INTERACT 2019.
Tan, H., Ling, H. H., & Mahtar, I. F. M.. (2024). Eco-Arcade: Gamified Reverse Vending Machine for Recycling. In Proceedings of the 6th National Symposium on Human-Computer Interaction (FUSION 2024) (p. 74).
Kho, R., Lim, J. Z., & Mahtar, I. F. M.. (2024). EcoMunch: A Gamified Solution to Food Waste and Sustainability. In Proceedings of the 6th National Symposium on Human-Computer Interaction (FUSION 2024) (p. 79).
Hoo, Z. L., Khor, J. H., & Mahtar, I. F. M.. (2024). ECOPET: Gamified Paper Recycler for Campus. In Proceedings of the 6th National Symposium on Human-Computer Interaction (FUSION 2024) (p. 85).
Honors / Awards
Outstanding Teaching Award in School of Computing and Data Science (SCDS), XMUM (2024)
Bronze Award in GreenCity AR iPad Challenge: Shaping Sustainable Urban Cities (2024)
Special Award (Concept Category) in FUSION 2024 Student Design Challenge (2024)
Silver Award in FUSION 2024 Student Design Challenge (2024)
Silver Medal in Malaysia Technology Expo (MTE) (2010)