Have you ever wondered how universities can drive national sustainability goals while maintaining academic excellence? The answer lies in institutions like Universiti Putra Malaysia, which recently demonstrated that higher education can be a powerful catalyst for environmental change.
UPM Unggul dengan Dua Kejayaan Tenaga Hijau di NEA 2025
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) has once again proven its reputation as an internationally acclaimed research university by securing two prestigious recognitions at the National Energy Awards (NEA) 2025, held at Hilton Kuala Lumpur on September 25. This remarkable achievement underscores the institution’s commitment to advancing Malaysia’s green energy agenda.
Double Recognition for Renewable Energy Excellence
UPM was announced as the second-place winner in Category 3: Renewable Energy, while simultaneously receiving the Special Award for Higher Education Institutions. As a result, this dual recognition solidifies UPM’s position as a leader in the nation’s green energy and sustainability initiatives.
Vice-Chancellor Dato’ Prof. Ir. Dr. Ahmad Farhan Mohd Sadullah emphasized that this success reflects UPM’s aspirations to excel not only in academics and research but also to play a crucial role in supporting the country’s carbon neutrality goals by 2050.
“UPM has proven that universities are leaders in sustainable energy solutions. This success demonstrates that educational institutions can shape the nation’s green energy future.”
Planetary Health Initiative Drives Success
The achievement aligns perfectly with UPM’s Planetary Health agenda—a comprehensive university approach that connects human health, environmental sustainability, and socioeconomic development. Meanwhile, through green energy initiatives, low-carbon campus management, and high-impact research, UPM contributes significantly to the 2050 carbon neutrality aspirations while strengthening the university’s role as a guardian of the balance between human welfare and earth’s sustainability.
National Recognition and Regional Prospects
The ceremony was officiated by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), Dato’ Sri Fadillah Yusof, who emphasized that this recognition proves Malaysia’s capability to lead in sustainable energy solutions.
For example, as one of 25 winners representing Malaysia at the ASEAN Energy Awards (AEA) 2025, UPM will carry the university’s and nation’s reputation to the regional level. The AEA, scheduled for October during the ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting (AMEM), will serve as an important platform to showcase UPM’s expertise and leadership in green energy technology.
Comprehensive Sustainability Initiatives
UPM has actively implemented various sustainability initiatives, including renewable energy technology development, smart low-carbon campus management, and green research projects that directly impact society. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency, such comprehensive approaches are essential for advancing global energy transition goals.
The NEA 2025 victory not only recognizes these efforts but also strengthens UPM’s reputation as a green university that contributes significantly to national development and global welfare. Furthermore, this success elevates UPM’s standing as an exemplary research university that successfully integrates academic excellence, research innovation, and sustainability to build a sustainable future for the nation and the world.
Looking Forward: A Model for Sustainable Education
This recognition positions UPM as a prime example of how educational institutions can balance academic rigor with environmental responsibility. The university’s success demonstrates that the path to carbon neutrality requires collaborative efforts from all sectors, with higher education institutions playing a pivotal role in driving innovation and practical solutions.
As Malaysia moves toward its 2050 carbon neutrality target, UPM’s achievements serve as a blueprint for other institutions seeking to make meaningful contributions to national sustainability goals while maintaining their core educational mission.
