USM PENANG, 27 October 2024 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) actively promoted sustainable development at the prestigious Belt and Road University Presidents Forum & Conference on Universities and Sustainable Development, uniting leaders from Belt and Road Initiative countries to discuss universities' pivotal roles in sustainability and innovation.

Participants engaged in discussions focused on how universities can address global challenges, advance sustainable development, foster technological innovation, and drive new forms of productivity—all while promoting broader and deeper global university cooperation.

USM’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Professor Dr. Habibah A Wahab, who attended the Forum held in Chongqing, China, showcased the university's niche areas of expertise in satellite technology, cancer research, semiconductors, and sustainable development, emphasising its transformative contributions to semiconductor technology in advancing sustainable innovation.

"Through our groundbreaking advancements, USM is not only shaping the future of technology but is also dedicated to fostering sustainable practices that benefit both academia and industry," Habibah stated.

USM’s involvement reflects its commitment to the Belt and Road’s goals of collaborative research and resource-sharing, with the forum allowing USM to strengthen ties with other universities and position itself as a key contributor to the global sustainable development agenda.

The event was also attended by various Chinese government representatives, universities from countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative, local universities in China, as well as international students, and faculty members.

Text: Shafinaz Md Ismail