UTAR organises seminar for delegation from THU

UTAR organised the Green Maritime Silk Road and Sustainable Development Seminar for a visiting delegation from Tsinghua University (THU) on 27 January 2026 at UTAR Sungai Long Campus. The seminar served as a platform for academic exchange on sustainability, green technology, and talent development in support of regional and global sustainable development agendas.

The seminar commenced with a welcome remark by the Office of International Affairs Director, Assoc Prof Dr Lai Soon Onn, who highlighted the importance of international collaboration, interdisciplinary research, and the role of higher education institutions in advancing sustainable development and green transformation.

The first presentation, titled Interlocking Steel Hollow Section System Integrated with Green Ultra-Lightweight Foamed Fibre-Reinforced Concrete Pavement for the Advancement of the Aquaculture Sector in Malaysia, was delivered by Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science (LKC FES) academic Assoc Prof Ir Ts Dr Yew Ming Kun. His sharing focused on innovative construction systems and green materials that could enhance infrastructure development within Malaysia’s aquaculture sector while promoting sustainability.

This was followed by a presentation by Dr Lai titled Green Engines, MADANI Future: Malaysia’s Transition Path Toward Net Zero 2050. In his talk, Dr Lai outlined Malaysia’s national aspirations to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, emphasising policy direction, technological innovation, and the role of universities in supporting the MADANI framework through research, education, and international engagement.

The seminar also featured a sharing from the talent and education perspective by THU School of Humanities lecturer Dr Dou Jifang, who discussed curriculum design and practical teaching experiences aimed at cultivating interdisciplinary talent in sustainable development. She also shared insights into how youth perceive and actively participate in the nation’s green transition.

In addition, a brief introduction to THU Xiuzhong College was presented by student representative Song Haoyuan, providing participants with insights into the college’s educational philosophy and academic environment.

The seminar concluded with an interactive discussion session, allowing participants to exchange views on sustainability, education, and future collaboration opportunities, followed by a campus tour for the guests.

Among the UTAR representatives present were Department of Architecture and Sustainable Design Head Ts Dr Tan Kok Hong, Centre for Advanced & Sustainable Materials Research Chairperson Assoc Prof Ir Dr Chong Woon Chan and LKC FES academic LAr Ts Dr Beh Jing Han.

The seminar reaffirmed UTAR’s commitment to promoting sustainable development, strengthening collaboration with leading institutions such as THU, and contributing actively to the Green Maritime Silk Road initiative through education and research.