Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) and New Energy Centre Malaysia Sdn Bhd have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on research and development in microalgae technology, focusing on sustainable biofuel production and carbon reduction.
Vice Chancellor Professor Dato’ Ir Ts Dr Mohamed Ibrahim Abdul Mutalib signed the MoU on behalf of UTP, while Chief Ecosystem Officer Jean Tan Xiao Xuan represented New Energy Centre Malaysia Sdn Bhd.
The MoU outlines several key initiatives, including joint research projects and student and staff mobility programmes. The partnership aims to leverage UTP's expertise in microalgae research and New Energy Centre's industry capabilities to drive innovation in renewable energy.
According to UTP Vice Chancellor Professor Dato’ Ir Ts Dr Mohamed Ibrahim Abdul Mutalib, “This partnership marks a significant milestone in our collective pursuit of innovation, sustainability, and industry-driven research. We are grateful for New Energy Centre's commitment and excited about the future possibilities this collaboration will bring. Together, we can make significant strides in green technology, knowledge exchange, and impactful research.
"Microalgae research, a flagship niche at UTP’s Higher Institutional Centre of Excellence (HICoE) Centre for Biofuel and Biochemical Research, plays a pivotal role in advancing renewable biofuel production. This aligns with Malaysia’s commitment to carbon reduction and supports PETRONAS in achieving Net Zero Carbon Emissions (NZCE) by 2050,” Mohamed Ibrahim added.
A key application of this microalgae research is the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), which is gaining global attention as the aviation industry seeks alternative low-carbon fuels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 
This focus on cutting-edge research, particularly in areas like SAF, will not only elevate UTP’s visibility in renewable energy research, attracting additional collaborations, funding opportunities, and top-tier talent, but also accelerate the development and commercialisation of microalgae-based biofuels, contributing to a greener future for Malaysia and beyond.
