UTAR, in collaboration with the ASEAN Academy of Engineering and Technology (AAET), organised the 3rd International ESG Forum 2025 at UTAR Sungai Long Campus on 23 July 2025. Held in hybrid mode, the forum carried the theme Harnessing AI for ESG: Pathways to a Sustainable Future and attracted academics, industry experts, researchers, and students eager to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices.
The forum commenced with welcome remarks by UTAR Vice President for Student Development and Alumni Relations and Chairperson of the UTAR Sustainability Committee, Prof Dr Choong Chee Keong. In his speech, he highlighted UTAR’s ongoing efforts to support and promote sustainability initiatives both on campus and beyond.
From left: Mr Mahadevan and Dr Lai
The opening keynote session, titled Transforming and Accelerating ESG Goals with AI Solutions, was delivered by SNS Network Technology Berhad Advisor of Corporate Academy, Mr Mahadevan Supramaniam. He shared practical applications of AI in ESG reporting, energy efficiency, and corporate governance, accompanied by relevant case studies from the tech industry.
Clockwise from top left: Dr Keong, Ir Dr Danny Ng and Prof Yuan
Following the keynote, the forum proceeded with Session A, themed From Algorithms to Action: AI-Driven ESG for a Greener Tomorrow, comprising three insightful panel discussions. Panel 1 featured Dr Keong T. Woo, Economist and AI Researcher from Princeton Analytics Management Corp. He offered perspectives on ESG-focused capital markets, AI-powered environmental ratings related to climate change, applications of AI in tracking environmental sustainability, and its potential in identifying future growth opportunities.
Expanding on AI’s transformative potential, Panel 2 was presented by Ir Dr Danny Ng Wee Kiat from UTAR’s Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science. He discussed the use of large language models (LLMs), AI assistants, and robotics, highlighting their influence on the future workplace. Panel 3 brought an international dimension to the session. Prof Dr Yuan Chun from Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School joined virtually to share insights on global academic collaborations and strategies for integrating AI into sustainability education.
All three panels were moderated by UTAR Faculty of Creative Industries academic Mr A. Zachary Roland, who guided thought-provoking discussions and facilitated active audience engagement.
Mr Zachary Roland (most right) moderating the three-panel discussions with engaging questions
After a group photo and lunch break, the forum resumed with Session B, themed Responsible Intelligence for a Livable Planet: ESG and AI in Action. This session featured four more panel discussions, each highlighting diverse perspectives on AI’s role in advancing ESG objectives.
Clockwise from top left: Mr Trevor Lok, Prof Chen, Dr Jizheng and Dr Abdullah Sallehhuddin
The session began with Panel 1, featuring Fermion Group Chief Executive Officer Mr Trevor Lok. He discussed the corporate sector’s role in ESG transformation and how business leaders can align AI technologies with ESG principles to boost operational efficiency while maintaining environmental and social accountability.
Panel 2, presented virtually by Prof Dr Chen Guisheng from the Guangxi Institute of Industry Technology, China, explored AI-driven frameworks in industrial environments. He showcased how digital technologies are being used to enhance ESG monitoring, automation, and compliance across various sectors.
Shifting focus to governance and ethics, Panel 3 featured UTAR Faculty of Accountancy and Management Assoc Prof Dr Abdullah Sallehhuddin bin Abd Rahman. He provided a compelling analysis of responsible governance in AI deployment, especially in the context of ethical leadership and corporate decision-making.
Concluding the panel discussions, Panel 4 was presented virtually by Dr Jizheng Zhang from Guangdong University of Finance and Economics. He examined AI’s role in financial risk management and green finance, emphasising the importance of innovation in promoting sustainable economic development.
Mr Maxwell Sim (most right), the moderator for Session B
These sessions were moderated by Mr Maxwell Sim Yik Seng, Head of the Department of Modern Languages at UTAR’s Faculty of Creative Industries. His facilitation promoted dynamic exchanges of ideas between local and international participants.
Dr Lai delivering his closing remarks
The forum concluded with closing remarks by UTAR Green Campus Committee Chairperson and Director of the Office of International Affairs Assoc Prof Dr Lai Soon Onn. He expressed his appreciation to all speakers, organisers, and participants for their valuable contributions, and encouraged continued collaboration in advancing sustainable AI research.
Group photo of speakers, guests, and organising committee
The event wrapped up with a group photo session featuring speakers, guests, and organising committee members. The 3rd International ESG Forum 2025 successfully served as a platform for meaningful dialogue and knowledge exchange, reinforcing UTAR’s mission to champion impactful research, international cooperation, and innovative solutions for a sustainable future.
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