University	Core Focus Area
USM	Sustainable Development Agenda

USM PENANG, 24 October 2025 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has reached another significant milestone by being recognised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kementerian Belia dan Sukan, KBS) as the National Sports Industry Centre of Excellence (PKISN) under the National Sports Industry Plan (PISN).

This recognition, announced today, positions USM as the country’s leading reference institution in advancing a competitive sports industry, aligned with the sustainable development agenda and Malaysia’s aspiration to make the sports sector a driver of new economic growth.

As the designated Centre of Excellence (CoE), USM will serve as the national hub for integrating multidisciplinary expertise to support the development of a resilient and economically impactful sports ecosystem.

Commenting on this prestigious recognition, USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed said, “This recognition is a testament to USM’s long-standing commitment to excellence in research, innovation, sustainability, and community engagement.”

“USM is proud to contribute to the national agenda by shaping a sports industry that is not only competitive but also sustainable and inclusive.

“We are also continuously expanding our network of strategic partnerships with government and private agencies, while driving research-based innovation to enhance the capabilities and global competitiveness of Malaysian athletes,” he added.

USM’s role will focus on aligning sports development with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that sports become a catalyst for economic growth, social well-being, and environmental stewardship.

USM is one of four public universities selected by KBS to lead this initiative, each with a distinct area of focus.

USM’s appointment as a PKISN, with sustainable development as its core agenda, is especially fitting given the university’s pioneering role in this field.

This recognition also aligns with USM’s outstanding global achievements in promoting sustainable development.

In the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025, USM was named the world’s No. 1 university for three SDGs: No Poverty (SDG 1); Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (SDG 16); and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17).

Overall, USM was ranked 14th globally out of 2,526 universities evaluated.

Text: Tan Ewe Hoe