SDG #9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
Build resilient infrastructure, promote innovation
0
Active Initiatives
508
Publications
2020–2025
0
Future Goals
Our Impact
20,000+ students and researchers
Beneficiaries
500+ research and consultancy projects
Innovations
RM XX million investment in R&D
Investment
UTAR Initiatives
Innovation labs fostering 200+ research projects.
37 Research Centres and 2 Research Institute of Excellence.
Technology transfer programmes to commercialize the innovations.
Digital infrastructure for learning and collaboration.
Sustainable infrastructure and smart technology research.
.
Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure @ UTAR
Building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and fostering innovation
200+
Research Projects
50
Industry Partnerships
Our Innovation & Infrastructure Vision
At Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), we are at the forefront of driving technological innovation and building sustainable infrastructure that supports Malaysia's industrial development. Our comprehensive approach to SDG 9 encompasses cutting-edge research facilities, industry partnerships, and innovation programs that bridge the gap between academic excellence and real-world applications.
Through our state-of-the-art laboratories, research centers, and technology transfer initiatives, UTAR contributes to Malaysia's transformation into a knowledge-based economy. We foster innovation through interdisciplinary collaboration, industry engagement, and entrepreneurship programs that turn research discoveries into practical solutions for societal challenges.
Our commitment extends to developing resilient digital infrastructure, promoting sustainable manufacturing practices, and supporting small and medium enterprises through technology adoption and innovation capacity building. By combining academic rigor with practical application, UTAR serves as a catalyst for industrial innovation and sustainable infrastructure development.
Our Innovation & Infrastructure Principles
Innovation Excellence
Fostering cutting-edge research and development that addresses real-world challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration and technological advancement.
Sustainable Infrastructure
Building resilient, inclusive, and sustainable infrastructure that supports economic development while minimizing environmental impact.
Industry Transformation
Supporting industrial modernization through technology transfer, digitalization, and sustainable manufacturing practices.
Innovation & Infrastructure Achievements
200+
Active Research Projects
20+
Patents & IP
75
Industry Partners
RM XX M
Annual R&D Investment
Our Strategic Innovation Approach
Research & Development
Cutting-edge research in engineering, technology, and applied sciences that drives innovation and creates practical solutions for industry Challenges.
Technology Transfer
Bridging the gap between research and commercialization through technology transfer programs, licensing, and industry collaboration initiatives.
Industry Collaboration
Strategic partnerships with industry leaders to address real-world challenges and accelerate the adoption of innovative technologies and practices.
Initiative Highlights
Advanced Research & Development Centers
State-of-the-art research facilities equipped with cutting-edge technology and instrumentation, supporting interdisciplinary research in engineering, technology, and applied sciences.
36
Research Centers
20
Research Laboratories
- Advanced materials and nanotechnology research
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning labs
- Renewable energy and sustainability research
- Biotechnology and biomedical engineering facilities
Digital Infrastructure & Smart Campus
Comprehensive digital transformation initiative creating a smart campus ecosystem with IoT integration, high-speed connectivity, and intelligent building management systems.
100%
Campus WiFi Coverage
5,000+
IoT Devices Deployed
- High-speed fiber optic network infrastructure
- Smart building automation and energy management
- WBLE2 digital learning platforms
- Campus-wide IoT sensor network for monitoring
Technology Transfer & Commercialization
Comprehensive technology transfer programme that facilitates the commercialization of university research, promotes patent development, strengthens industry partnerships, and accelerates the translation of innovative ideas into market-ready solutions.
30
Patents & IP Portfolio
XX
Technologies Commercialized
- Patent filing and intellectual property protection
- Technology licensing and industry partnerships
- Startup incubation and spin-off company support
- Market analysis and commercialization strategy
Startup and Spin-off Company Development
Comprehensive program supporting faculty and students in creating startup and spin-off companies based on university research, providing funding, mentorship, and business development support to transform innovations into successful enterprises.
10
Staff Startup Company
15
Student Startup Company
- Research-based technology commercialization support
- Seed funding and investor network connections
- Business mentorship and strategic planning assistance
- Legal and regulatory compliance guidance
Digital Innovation & AI Research
Advanced research in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and digital technologies that drive innovation across industries and transform business processes.
50+
AI Research Projects
300+
Students in AI Programme
- Machine learning and deep learning research
- Computer vision and natural language processing
- Big data analytics and predictive modeling
- Blockchain and distributed systems research
Sustainable Engineering Solutions
Advanced manufacturing research focusing on automation, precision engineering, additive manufacturing, and lean production systems that enhance industrial competitiveness and efficiency.
RM 3 million
R&D Investment
1
Startup Company
- Advanced manufacturing processes and materials
- 3D printing and additive manufacturing technologies
- Lean manufacturing and process optimization
- Sustainable building materials and construction
Sustainability Activities Highlights
Activities and achievements from UTAR's commitment to industry, innovation and infrastructure.
UTAR and Palm Grove Herb Valley Sdn Bhd exchange MoU to advance herbal research and wellness innovation
16 October 2025
UTAR and Palm Grove Herb Valley (PGHV) formalized a partnership through a memorandum of understanding to advance herbal research, sustainable agriculture, and wellness innovation. The collaboration focuses on sustainable herb farming, developing herbal and health products, and scientific studies on bioactive compounds. UTAR students gain hands-on experience at PGHV’s plantation, while both parties engage in joint research, publications, and training. This partnership promotes innovation, community well-being, and resilient food and nutrition systems, supporting healthier, more sustainable communities.
Unipreneur Bazaar - October 2025 Trimester
2 October 2025
The UniPreneur Bazaar at UTAR Sungai Long Campus, held from 26 to 28 November 2025 at KA North Lobby, celebrated the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of student vendors. Visitors explored a diverse array of offerings, including coffee, flowers, handmade hair accessories, cheesecakes, toys, and interactive games. The event provided students with practical experience in product development, marketing, and business operations, fostering innovation, enterprise, and confidence. UTARians were encouraged to support and celebrate these budding entrepreneurs, strengthening the campus entrepreneurial ecosystem.
CEO Talk: Navigating business success with innovation and sustainability
23 July 2025
UTAR recently hosted a CEO Talk featuring Mr Dennis Wu, CEO and Executive Director of Allied Environmental Consultants Malaysia Sdn Bhd, at the Sungai Long Campus. Organised by the Centre for Corporate and Community Development (CCCD), the session drew a full audience of students and staff. Mr Wu shared insights from his extensive career in finance, sustainability, and leadership, highlighting innovation, ESG integration, and green technologies. His talk inspired participants to pursue entrepreneurship rooted in ethical leadership, environmental responsibility, and sustainable business growth.
Maritime talk charts the future course of local SBSR industry
25 February 2025
UTAR Faculty of Science, in collaboration with CILT Malaysia and UTAR Logistics & International Shipping Society, hosted En Nazery Khalid to discuss Malaysia’s shipbuilding and ship repair (SBSR) industry. The talk highlighted maritime history, key ports, industry players, and government support schemes, emphasizing the sector’s economic significance. Students learned about logistics, emerging technologies like AI, and industry opportunities, gaining insights into sustainable practices, industrial innovation, and career pathways that strengthen Malaysia’s maritime infrastructure and global trade connectivity.
Fsc academic honoured with prestigious LogM President's Award for outstanding logistics research
7 December 2024
Assoc Prof Gs Ts Dr Lam Weng Siew from UTAR’s Faculty of Science received the LogM President’s Award for Outstanding Logistics Research, recognising his significant contributions to logistics optimisation, data analysis, and decision-making. His work, including the use of digital twin technology, enhances operational efficiency, real-time tracking, and supply chain management, driving innovation in the logistics industry. This achievement underscores UTAR’s commitment to research excellence, fostering industry-relevant solutions, and promoting technological advancement in logistics, supporting sustainable infrastructure and industrial growth.
UTAR doctor of philosophy student receives prestigious IKM research prize
6 December 2024
UTAR Doctor of Philosophy student Chan Yu Bin from the Faculty of Science was awarded the IKM Research Prize in Polymer and Materials Science 2024 for his pioneering research that contributes to material innovation and scientific applications. His work focuses on developing practical solutions to real-world environmental challenges using advanced polymer science. Chan attributed his success to UTAR’s strong research culture, expert mentorship, and state-of-the-art facilities, which have enabled significant breakthroughs, strengthened technological progress, and promote sustainable industrial development locally and globally.
UTAR and Miraico Sdn Bhd collaborate to drive innovation in sustainable farming
3 December 2024
The exchange ceremony for the memorandum of understanding (MoU) between UTAR and Miraico Sdn Bhd was held on 3 December 2024 at UTAR Kampar Campus. This partnership represents a significant collaboration between academia and industry, focusing on sustainable farming and innovation through shared expertise. Leveraging Miraico’s advanced smart farming technologies, the collaboration aims to enhance BSF farming, food security, and waste management, reflecting UTAR’s commitment to bridging academic knowledge with industry practices and addressing global sustainability challenges.
FCI student's motion graphics shine on global stage
3 December 2024
UTAR student Law Khor Nee won the Visual Category Award (Student Category) at the Kyoto Global Design Awards 2024 for her innovative project Webflow. A third-year Graphic Design and Multimedia student at the Faculty of Creative Industries, Law impressed judges with her user-friendly web design concept, which emphasised accessibility, creativity, and societal impact. She credited her industrial training, supervisor Mr Lee Kin Keong, and family support for her achievement. The award highlights her exceptional talent, creativity, and potential to make a significant impact on the global design landscape.
Unipreneur Bazaar - October 2024 Trimester
27 November 2024
The UniPreneur Bazaar at UTAR Sungai Long Campus, held from 27 to 29 November 2024 at KA North Lobby, celebrated the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of student vendors. Visitors explored a diverse array of offerings, including coffee, flowers, handmade hair accessories, cheesecakes, toys, and interactive games. The event provided students with practical experience in product development, marketing, and business operations, fostering innovation, enterprise, and confidence. UTARians were encouraged to support and celebrate these budding entrepreneurs, strengthening the campus entrepreneurial ecosystem.
LKCFES academic honoured at prestigious international material science conference
22 November 2024
Assoc Prof Ir Ts Dr Yew Ming Kun from UTAR’s Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science was honoured at the 13th International Conference on Material Science and Engineering Technology in Nagoya, Japan, for his presentation on Novel Eco-Friendly Ultra-Lightweight Foamed Fibre-Reinforced Floating Concrete. His research advances sustainable, lightweight concrete for construction and aquaculture, promoting environmentally responsible building materials, and reflects UTAR’s commitment to material science innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and sustainable infrastructure solutions globally.
UTAR hosts ACCIM AI and digital transformation workshop 1.0
15 November 2024
UTAR’s Centre for Corporate and Community Development, in collaboration with ACCCIM, organised the ACCCIM AI and Digital Transformation Workshop 1.0 at Kampar Campus. The event united industry experts, academics, and business leaders to explore how AI and digital technologies enhance innovation and productivity. Participants gained insights into leveraging automation and digital tools to improve business efficiency, empowering SMEs to embrace innovation and contribute to Malaysia’s technology-driven economic growth.
Unipreneur Bazaar - October 2024 Trimester
12 November 2024
The UniPreneur Bazaar at UTAR Kampar Campus, held from 12 to 14 November 2024 at Pathway from Block D - Block E, showcased the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of student vendors. Visitors enjoyed a wide range of unique offerings, including coffee, flowers, handmade hair accessories, cheesecakes, toys, and interactive games. The event provided students with hands-on experience in product development, marketing, and business operations, fostering innovation and enterprise. UTARians are encouraged to support and celebrate these budding entrepreneurs.
KLESF merchandise booth
12 November 2024
The KLESF 2024 Merchandise Booth at UTAR was a resounding success, thanks to the overwhelming support from participants and visitors. This year featured exciting new items, including wooden bookmarks, keychain lanyards, and fridge magnets, alongside favourites from last year. The Unovate Centre also showcased two F&B Unipreneur teams: Coffueel, serving refreshing beverages, and Crumble & Co., offering delicious desserts. The event highlighted student creativity and entrepreneurial spirit, providing practical experience in product promotion, customer engagement, and business management, and fostering the growth of young entrepreneurs.
UTAR explores collaboration opportunities with OSK Property Holdings Berhad
26 August 2024
UTAR’s delegation visited OSK Property Holdings Berhad to explore collaboration opportunities aimed at enhancing student development and industry engagement. Discussions focused on internships, industrial training, talent recruitment, career fairs, guest talks, sponsorships, and academic support to provide students with practical experience and industry exposure. The meeting, attended by senior representatives from both organisations, built on past initiatives such as career talks and lab support. The session concluded positively, signalling potential long-term partnerships benefiting students, the industry, and the wider community.
UTAR launches official merchandise estore and presents signed MoA with Printcious
6 August 2024
UTAR launched its Official Merchandise eStore at Sungai Long Campus, celebrating a partnership with Printcious (M) Sdn Bhd. UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat highlighted the platform as a dynamic learning space where students can develop entrepreneurial and e-commerce skills by designing and selling merchandise. The event featured the MoA presentation, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, lion dance, and merchandise showcase. The eStore provides practical experience, fosters creativity, and supports professional growth while reinvesting profits for sustainability and expansion.
The entrepreneur colosseum (TEC) roadshow 2024
19 July 2024
The Entrepreneur Colosseum (TEC) Roadshow 2024, organised by Persatuan Usahawan Maju Malaysia (PUMM), was held at UTAR Sungai Long Campus to promote the TEC competition among students. The event featured a sharing session by Datuk Dylan Chui, founder of DELUX Holding, who shared insights on overcoming startup challenges, including financial constraints and legal issues. The TEC competition encourages young entrepreneurs to pitch ideas, fostering innovation, creativity, and business skills, with a total prize pool of RM50,000, supporting the development of future industry-ready leaders.
Malaysian entrepreneurs share inspiration with UTAR student
17 July 2024
The PUMM Entrepreneur Colosseum (TEC) 2024 Sharing Roadshow at UTAR inspired students to embrace entrepreneurship. Dato’ Jason Foo Khee Long shared his IT industry and entrepreneurial journey, encouraging students to transform ideas into businesses early for valuable learning experiences. The session covered leadership, management, and emerging industry trends. Insights from successful entrepreneurs, combined with Q&A discussions, provided students with practical knowledge, fostering innovation, business creation, and essential skills for advancing technological and industrial development.
FBF PhD student wins best paper award at international conference on CSR and sustainable development
10 June 2024
Iddrisu Mohammed Awal, a PhD student at UTAR’s Faculty of Business and Finance, won the Best Paper Award at the 7th International Conference on CSR & Sustainable Development in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. His research explored the impact of Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR 4.0) technologies on ESG practices and firm competitiveness, showing that effective ESG integration boosts performance. The study offers practical insights for responsible business, demonstrating how technology and sustainable practices can drive innovation, efficiency, and ethical, environmentally conscious operations in industry.
Unovate Pop-up market for 38th convocation
8 March 2024
During UTAR’s 38th Convocation at Dewan Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik, the Unovate Pop-up Market brought a lively and engaging atmosphere to the walkway behind the hall, featuring a variety of student-run stalls. Visitors were treated to a diverse selection of food, beverages, and unique merchandise, reflecting the creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit of UTAR students. Operating from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on 8 and 10 March, and 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on 9 March 2024, the market offered students hands-on experience in business operations, marketing, customer engagement, and product development, nurturing practical skills, confidence, and innovative thinking essential for future entrepreneurs.
Fueling dreams through Coffuel
5 Jan 2024
Coffuel's inception is a testament to the team’s entrepreneurial spirit; driven by a desire to break away from conventional paths. Founded by Sven Lim Shi Yuan, a Psychology student with a passion for coffee, and the Managing Director of Coffuel, the journey began with a pop-up store at the UTAR Flea Market. Realising the potential, he reached out to his close friend, Jay Chan Wei Jie, Co-founder and Operation Manager, who shared a similar eagerness to gain experience and delve into entrepreneurship. As the concept evolved, Co-founder and Finance Manager Kris Chew Han Seng, and Co-founder and Marketing Manager Ellis Phua Sook Sim, joined the team, both sharing a collective enthusiasm for the coffee business.
Fsc Department of agricultural and food science's first musk melons
30 November 2023
UTAR’s Faculty of Science celebrated the first harvest of musk melons at the Green House of Agriculture Park, Kampar Campus, guided by Dr Ali Yassoralipour and Hami Eco Farm Sdn Bhd. The initiative enables students to conduct research on sustainable food production, enhance soil fertility, and increase crop yields while minimizing environmental impact. Through hands-on learning, students develop skills in responsible farming, resource conservation, and eco-friendly techniques, fostering productivity, supporting ecosystems, and contributing to long-term food security, community well-being, and environmentally sustainable agricultural practices.
Insights on Latest Development in Food Science and Technology
23 October 2023
UTAR’s Faculty of Science, in collaboration with Jinan University, hosted the annual JNU-UTAR Webinar Series on Food Science and Technology via Zoom, attended by over 140 participants.
Speakers Dr Lu Xuanxuan and Dr Chay Shyan Yea presented on black rice particle-stabilised Pickering emulsions and biopeptides from winged bean with blood-pressure-lowering potential, highlighting natural, functional food innovations.
The webinar promoted knowledge sharing on safe, nutritious, and sustainable food production, encouraging research and practices that reduce reliance on synthetic additives while supporting health and environmentally conscious food systems.
Pop-up market imbues a new layer of joy to UTAR August 2023 Convocation
18 August 2023
During UTAR’s August 2023 Convocation, Unovate Centre organised a Pop-up Market at Dewan Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik. The market provided students and vendors with practical entrepreneurial experience while offering visitors a variety of refreshments and creative products. The event fostered a lively, joyful atmosphere, celebrating innovation and creativity. Graduates, families, and friends enjoyed the interactive experience, which highlighted hands-on learning, community engagement, and the spirit of enterprise, leaving lasting memories for all participants.
UTAR CEO Talk Series: Leap of faith from executive to entrepreneur
2 March 2023
UTAR Centre for Corporate and Community Development, with Unovate Centre, Faculty of Accountancy and Management, and Paramount Corporation Berhad, organised the CEO Talk Series featuring Paramount Group CEO Jeffrey Chew. He emphasised leadership, communication, and innovation as key drivers for business growth. Chew highlighted entrepreneurship’s role in creating jobs, strengthening industries, and contributing to national progress through collaboration, skills development, and continuous learning, fostering a culture of creativity and sustainable economic advancement.
Relevance Research Centres
Belt and Road Strategic Research Centre
Center for Artificial Intelligence and Computing Applications
Centre for Business and Management
Centre for Cyber Security
Centre for Communication Systems & Networks
Centre for Environment and Green Technology
Centre for Entrepreneurial Sustainability
Centre for Economic Studies
Centre for Healthcare Science and Technology
Centre for IoT and Big Data
Centre for Immersive Technology and Creativity
Centre for Mathematical Sciences
Centre for Sustainable Design & Built Environment
Centre for Advanced and Sustainable Materials Research
Centre for Power Systems and Electricity
Centre for Research on Non-Communicable Diseases
Centre for Sustainable Mobility Technologies
Centre for Railway Infrastructure and Engineering
Startup
IOT Energy Sdn Bhd
Solid Lab Sdn Bhd
Netizen Testing Sdn Bhd
Xin Chinese Medical Hall Sdn Bhd
YC TCM Sdn Bhd
Yu Jian TECM Healthcare Center
TEKK Chinese Medicine Sdn Bhd
Cytovision Sdn Bhd
AI Master Sdn Bhd
Trimedic TCM Centre
Future Goals & Vision
- Establish AI research center.
- Create innovation ecosystem with 500+ partners.
- Encourage staff to start spin-off company.
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