28 December 2024 | Johor Bahru — In conjunction with the PETRONAS Planting Tomorrow initiative themed “Cleaner Energy Solutions”, Dr. Nurashikin Ihsan, Senior Lecturer from the Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), was invited as a featured speaker at the Meet the Expert session hosted by Petrosains PlaySmart™ Johor Bahru, held at the Perbadanan Perpustakaan Awam Johor.
Her talk, entitled “Tiny Life, Big Impact: Biotechnology for a Greener Energy Future”, captivated the public and young learners by showcasing how microbes and other tiny lifeforms can be harnessed for sustainable energy innovations such as biofuels and waste-to-energy systems. Her presentation emphasized the role of biotechnology in accelerating cleaner energy transitions and reducing carbon footprints.
This outreach program is part of the university’s continuous commitment to supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
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SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
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SDG 13: Climate Action
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SDG 4: Quality Education
The event also highlighted UTM’s proactive collaboration with NGOs and industry partners like Petrosains in student volunteerism, research programs, and development of educational resources. It reflects the Faculty of Science’s ongoing efforts in integrating science communication and community engagement, promoting public understanding of clean technology and sustainable living.
By participating in such programs, UTM reinforces its role as a research-driven institution committed to sustainability, knowledge transfer, and nurturing a generation of environmentally conscious scientists and innovators.