Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has been recognised as the top-ranking institution globally for Sustainable Development Goals 7 (SDG 7) focusing on affordable and clean energy following the universities exemplary effort in ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.
UTM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Ahmad Fauzi Ismail said in a statement today the university’s leadership in SDG 7 is demonstrated by its initiatives to promote renewable energy infrastructure, such as solar panels on its campuses.
“The university has received prestigious awards such as the National Energy Awards 2022 and the Green Electricity Tariff by Tenaga Nasional for its commitment to subscribing to 500 blocks of electricity generated from renewable energy sources.
“SDG 7 focuses on ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy, and UTM’s dedication to this goal is evident through its various initiatives promoting renewable energy, energy efficiency and sustainable practices on and off-campus,” he said.
In the latest edition of Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Ranking, UTM has participated in 7 SDGs and achieved remarkable success, retaining its overall rank of 101-200 out of 1,591 participating institutions worldwide.
It has shown tremendous improvement with four SDGs ranked in the Top 100: SDG 7 (#1), SDG 9 (#39), SDG 4 for quality education (#70), and SDG 16: Promote Just, Peaceful and Inclusive Societies (#96) respectively.
Meanwhile, Ahmad Fauzi said UTM is also proud to retain its position since 2022 as the leading university in Malaysia for SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure which measures universities’ research on industry and innovation, their number of patents and spin-off companies and their research income from industry.
“To achieve this, UTM has implemented several initiatives. Firstly, it has established industry satellite labs on its campus, allowing companies to set up dedicated research and development facilities within the university premises. These labs provide a platform for researchers, students, and industry professionals to collaborate on projects, share resources, and exchange knowledge.
“The university has also launched innovation incubator programmes to provide support and resources for staff and students, and start-ups, fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship within the university community,” he said.
Ahmad Fauzi also stated that UTM Sustainability Blueprint 2030 launched early this year will help the university to thrive further in generating impact through innovating solutions ensuring that they continue to lead in creating meaningful impacts for the betterment of society and the environment.
Source: BERNAMA News Agency