Monash University Secures Major PETRONAS Funding for Energy Innovation
Monash University Malaysia has secured funding for seven research proposals from PETRONAS as part of the PETRONAS-Academia Collaboration Dialogue (PACD). The initiative awarded RM71 million in research grants, with 61 researchers from 25 universities being selected. Monash University Malaysia emerged as one of the key recipients, underscoring a strategic collaboration between the university and PETRONAS to address global energy challenges through research.
Monash drives cutting-edge energy solutions
The funded projects at Monash focus on sustainable energy solutions, including carbon capture, bioenergy, efficient hydrogen generation, and enhancing operational efficiency through AI.
Among the researchers receiving support are Professor Ir. Dr Chan Eng Seng, who is leading a project on microalgae oil biorefinery, and Professor Raphael Phan, who is working on AI applications in materials discovery.These projects align with global trends toward renewable energy and environmental sustainability.
The awards were presented by Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Higher Education, YB Datuk Ts Mustapha Sakmud, and PETRONAS Senior Vice President, Datuk Ir. Bacho Pilong. Pilong emphasized the importance of collaboration between academia and industry in driving technological breakthroughs necessary for a sustainable energy future. This partnership is seen as a critical step towards addressing the high capital investments needed for energy transition.
According to Professor Dato’ Dr Faisal Rafiq Bin Mahamd Adikan, Vice President of Research & Development at Monash University Malaysia, the collaboration with PETRONAS marks a significant milestone in advancing impactful research. He expressed confidence that the outcomes of these initiatives will contribute to solving today’s energy challenges while shaping a sustainable future for society both locally and globally.