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Universiti Teknologi Swinburne Sarawak Campus is poised to advance its commitment to digital transformation and sustainability with the establishment of a cutting-edge research and development (R&D) centre focused on renewable energy and high-tech avionics. This new centre, set to be developed in Sarawak, will emphasise innovative approaches to energy distribution and the exploration of advanced aerospace technologies.
Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced that the research centre will be strategically located to leverage the region’s strengths in renewable energy and its growing role in the satellite launch industry. The centre will concentrate on developing lightweight, high-strength materials essential for the aerospace sector, such as drones and aircraft components, including advanced composites.
In a bid to foster international collaboration, the Sarawak government plans to partner with Swinburne University of Technology in Melbourne. This collaboration will facilitate the exchange of expertise and the involvement of experienced lecturers in the new research initiative.
Additionally, the course aims to establish a student exchange scheme at the PhD level, with students splitting their time between Kuching and Australia, enhancing their exposure to global advancements in STEM fields.
The initiative underscores Sarawak’s strategic focus on integrating renewable energy solutions and advanced technology into its educational and research frameworks. By leveraging local resources and international partnerships, Universiti Teknologi Swinburne Sarawak Campus is set to play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable technologies and aerospace innovation.
Other educational institutions are contributing to Sarawak’s sustainability efforts. OpenGov Asia reported Curtin University Malaysia has launched a Bachelor of Engineering in Energy Engineering (Honours) programme to meet the growing demands in the global energy sector.
This curriculum, aligned with Sarawak’s Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030, focuses on energy transition and renewable energy, offering students in-depth knowledge in designing and managing sustainable energy systems.
The course integrates electrical, mechanical, and chemical engineering disciplines, preparing graduates for diverse roles in energy sustainability and management. It also covers emerging areas like geothermal energy, hydrogen systems, and environmental compliance.
With a strong emphasis on practical experience through research projects and capstone design work, the programme aims to produce skilled professionals ready to contribute to Sarawak’s green energy initiatives and global sustainability efforts.
OpenGov Asia reported that Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has partnered with a Singapore-based sustainability firm to advance tech-enabled carbon reduction and removal projects in Malaysia.
This collaboration focuses on leveraging carbon trading, nature-based solutions, and technological innovations such as biochar production and electric vehicle infrastructure. This initiative aims to support Malaysia’s net-zero emissions targets and align with global sustainability goals.
Overall, Malaysia has significantly advanced its sustainability efforts with the ongoing smart meter installation project, a cornerstone of the Malaysia MADANI: Jiwa Merdeka. The smart meters enable real-time data monitoring and automatic billing, reducing waste and improving operational efficiency.
Since the smart meters were introduced in 2020, approximately 2.3 million units have been installed nationwide, including in key regions like Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, and Melaka. By 2026, the project aims to extend to 9.1 million households in Peninsular Malaysia, contributing to a more sustainable and digitally advanced energy infrastructure.
These metres improve energy management and efficiency while advancing Malaysia’s overall energy modernisation strategy. By aligning with Malaysia’s Smart City and Smart Nation objectives, it utilises digital technologies and IoT innovations to drive leadership in energy sustainability and transform infrastructure.
These initiatives play a crucial role in advancing Malaysia’s sustainability goals and ambitions. The establishment of advanced research centres, the development of specialised educational programmes, and strategic partnerships drive carbon reduction and foster technological innovation. Alongside nationwide projects, these combined efforts are propelling Malaysia towards a more sustainable and technologically sophisticated future.
