Premier lauds Curtin Malaysia’s new centre for sustainable energy research at ICETe 2024

Miri, Sarawak – 9 September 2024 – Sarawak’s Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, has praised Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) for its establishment of the Centre of New and Sustainable Energy Research and Venture (CONSERV), marking it as a groundbreaking milestone in the state’s journey toward energy transition.

Speaking at the recent opening ceremony of the International Conference on Energy Transition & Exhibition 2024 (ICETe 2024) at Curtin Malaysia, the Premier, whose speech was delivered by Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, highlighted CONSERV as a crucial platform for innovation and the development of cutting-edge technologies to drive Sarawak’s clean energy ambitions.

“The establishment of CONSERV at Curtin Malaysia represents a strategic leap forward in our energy transition journey. It aligns seamlessly with our mission to position Sarawak as a leader in clean energy solutions, not just for Malaysia but across the ASEAN region,” said Abang Johari.

He emphasised that the research hub would foster innovation, collaboration, and the development of technologies crucial to realising Sarawak’s vision of sustainable and inclusive growth, as outlined in its Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030).

The Premier lauded Sarawak’s leading role in renewable energy, with investments in hydroelectric power now accounting for over 70 per cent of the state’s energy mix. He also drew attention to Sarawak’s ongoing advancements in solar, hydrogen, and bioenergy sectors, citing the launch of the Hydrogen Testbed & Refuelling Station at Curtin Malaysia as a key milestone in diversifying the state’s energy portfolio.

“This project reflects our dedication to building a sustainable energy ecosystem and reinforces Curtin Malaysia’s role in supporting our vision for innovation and progress,” he added.

The Premier expressed immense pride in Curtin Malaysia’s forward-thinking approach to integrating research, education, and industry collaboration in sustainable energy. He commended the university for launching new programmes such as the Bachelor of Engineering in Energy Engineering and Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics Engineering, highlighting Curtin Malaysia’s strategic role in nurturing talent and expertise critical to the future of Sarawak’s energy sector.

Present at the ceremony were Haji Ariffin Mohamad, Deputy Mayor of Miri, representing Mayor Adam Yii Siew Sang; Professor Vincent Lee, Acting Pro Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Curtin Malaysia; Sharon Chong, Chief Operating Officer of Curtin Malaysia; John Curtin Distinguished Professor Ramasamy Nagarajan, Dean of Research and Development; Professor Tuong-Thuy Vu, Dean of Faculty of Engineering and Science; Professor Tang Fu Ee, Dean of Learning and Teaching; Professor Stephanie Chan Yen San, ICETe 2024 Conference Chair; alongside industry partners and conference delegates.

Professor Vincent Lee, in his opening speech, reiterated Curtin Malaysia’s commitment to aligning its mission with global and regional efforts in energy transition. He underscored the university’s role in advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and creating sustainable solutions that resonate with both the conference’s objectives and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Themed ‘Renewable and Sustainable Energy, Clean Transitional Energy, Waste Energy Recovery, Automation in Energy Systems, and Energy Policies’, ICETe 2024 tackled critical areas that are key to achieving both the SDGs and Sarawak’s PCDS 2030. With delegates from over 10 countries in attendance, the conference served as an international platform for the exchange of ideas, the forging of partnerships, and the collaboration on innovative solutions for driving global energy transition.

Professor Lee noted that initiatives like the Hydrogen Testbed & Refuelling Station and CONSERV exemplify Curtin Malaysia’s dedication to supporting Malaysia’s and Sarawak’s energy transition roadmap. “This conference is a catalyst for action, bringing together experts and stakeholders from around the globe to collaborate on the innovative solutions needed to advance the energy transition,” he stated.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or TikTok.

Prof. Lee (second from the left) presenting a memento to Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, while Prof. Tuong-Thuy Vu (left) and Prof. Stephanie Chan look on

(Seated from right) Prof. Tang, Prof. Vu, Chong, Dato Sri Lee, Haji Ariffin, and Prof. Lee in group photo with conference delegates, industry representatives, and Curtin staff

Keynote speaker Prof. Ruey-An Doong from Institute of Analytical and Environmental Sciences, National Tsing Hua University, Taiwan, presenting his paper during the conference