25 May 2023 – Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) hosted a speaking engagement by the US Ambassador to Malaysia, H.E. Brian McFeeters, titled “Climate Action Now: Taking Initiatives to Combat the Climate Crisis” at Theatrette, UNITEN.

Ambassador McFeeters, impressed by the outstanding facilities at UNITEN, recognised the university’s commitment to spearheading Malaysia’s energy transition in line with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDG) through the setting up of the first National Energy Centre (NEC) for the country soon.

Vice-Chancellor of UNITEN, Prof. Ir. Dr. Noor Azuan Abu Osman said the setting up of the NEC under UNITEN aims to establish a Strategic National Energy Framework to transform Malaysia into an energy hub and provides industry players with the opportunity to become a strategic partner by opening a branch or laboratory satellite incubator in the energy centre.

“It is expected to benefit both Malaysia and the surrounding regions to provide technological solutions for energy transition in the efforts of increasing renewable energy capacity and dealing with carbon emissions,” he added.

“As we transition towards net zero emissions by 2050, our country aims to become a Low Carbon Nation by 2040 as reflected in the latest National Energy Policy (2022-2040).

“This requires Malaysia to develop a sustainable energy system based on higher shares of renewable energy which also include energy efficiency enhancement and increased share in low carbon fuels including liquefied natural gas (LNG) and biodiesel," he said in his keynote speech at UNITEN today.

US Ambassador to Malaysia, His Exellency Brian McFeeters who also shared his aspiration and thoughts during the engagement at UNITEN campus in Putrajaya said

Malaysia would be able to spearhead the energy initiatives for a sustainable future for generations to come via collaborations with various stakeholders.

"Malaysian states, as stewards of land, play a crucial role in deciding to preserve and restore Malaysia's amazing forests, mangroves, and peatland, each critical in reducing overall greenhouse gas emissions," he said.

During the engagement session, he also engaged with students and staff. He was particularly impressed by the vibrant management team of UNITEN in spearheading tertiary education in energy transition in the country as well as the highly employable graduates that the university has produced over the years.