UTP’S first TechConnect links innovators with investors to drive decarbonisation solutions

KUALA LUMPUR: Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS’ (UTP) inaugural Technology Day, TechConnect 2023, linked innovators with potential funders to help accelerate decarbonisation and sustainability solutions.

Themed “Reshaping Tomorrow: Decarbonisation for a sustainable future,” the event served as a strategic platform to showcase and promote UTP’s cutting-edge technological advancements in decarbonisation.

Held in collaboration with Malaysia Petroleum Resources Corporation (MPRC) and Malaysian Research Accelerator for Technology and Innovation (MRANTI), TechConnect 2023 brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including academia, corporations, government entities, entrepreneurs, and the community.

According to UTP vice chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Mohamed Ibrahim Abdul Mutalib, “TechConnect 2023 is a testament to UTP’s commitment to advancing sustainable practices through innovative solutions.

“By bridging the gap between technology and essential elements, we aim to provide crucial support for technology transfers, partnerships, and collaboration.

“The event’s initiative aligns with the university’s dedication to supporting PETRONAS’ goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions (NZCE) by 2050.”

He added: “We strive to propel innovation that not only addresses global challenges but also significantly contributes to a sustainable future through research, education, and sustainable practices.”

Meanwhile, MPRC president and CEO Mohd Yazid Ja’afar said in line with rapid technological developments, Malaysia’s oil and gas services and equipment (OGSE) industry must seize the opportunity to shape and drive innovation, fostering a culture of self-sufficiency that positions the industry as leaders in the global energy landscape.

MPRC is an agency of the Economy Ministry tasked with developing the OGSE industry.

“Aggressive innovation and technology adoption are paramount, offering a chance for Malaysian OGSE players to become leaders in the nascent market for low carbon energy solutions,” Mohd Yazid said when delivering his keynote address at TechConnect 2023.

TechConnect 2023 aimed to catalyse innovation by bridging the gap between technology and essential elements, providing crucial support for technology transfer, partnerships, and collaboration.

The event was designed to highlight and advance technological breakthroughs for the benefit of society, offering an informative experience for anyone interested in the future of decarbonisation technology.

Highlights of the event included a Pitch & Chill session, which provided a platform for 14 innovators to present their technologies to a panel comprising MPRC, MRANTI and Malaysian Technology Development Corporation Sdn Bhd. The session provided an opportunity for the innovators to receive feedback on their pitching as well as connect with potential investors and funders to accelerate development and take-up of their technologies.

Attendees were also provided business matching sessions aimed at promoting UTP’s decarbonisation technologies to investors.

They also gained invaluable insights into the latest trends, challenges, and emerging technologies in decarbonisation through engaging panel discussions and enlightening keynote addresses by industry experts, exhibitions, and productive business matching sessions.

Distinguished speakers for the event included Energy Institute Malaysia chairman Prof Dr Mohd Shahir Liew, MPRC OGSE technology manager Mohd Nazmi Mohd Nur and MRANTI technology commercialisation general manager Dr Afnizanfaizal Abdullah.

The event was officiated by PETRONAS corporate strategy senior vice president Mazuin Ismail.