TechSUD 2025 convenes industry, academia, and researchers to drive AI- and ESG-led solutions for resilient urban development
Malaysia’s push for smarter, greener cities gained strong momentum on 8 November 2025 as Wawasan Open University (WOU) and the Technological Association of Malaysia (TAM) hosted the 2nd National Symposium on Technologies for Sustainable Urban Development (TechSUD 2025) in Cyberjaya. The symposium brought together some of the field’s most forward-thinking minds to tackle rising urban challenges and spark technology-driven solutions for sustainable living.
The symposium, which convened 130 participants including industry practitioners, researchers, academicians, and tertiary students, focused on the critical intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, and urban resilience under the theme, “A Future with Technologies is the Future for Sustainability.”
Driving Solutions for the Next Generation
In his opening speech, WOU Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof Ts Dr Yap Eng Hwa, underscored the urgent need for sustainable urban planning, asserting that today’s planning defines tomorrow’s quality of life.
“As we confront the realities of climate change, rapid urbanisation, and digital transformation, the measures we take today in how we plan, build, and govern our cities will define the quality of life for the next generation,” said Prof Yap. “True progress comes from balancing innovation with sustainability. At WOU, we remain committed to using education and research to drive real solutions, turning good ideas into meaningful action for a better future.”
TAM President Ts Tung Chee Kuan reflected on the growth of the TechSUD series since 2023. He stressed the responsibility of innovators: “As engineers, technologists, educators, and innovators, our duty is not only to keep up with change, but to lead change responsibly, ensuring technology benefits society and supports sustainable growth.”
WOU’s School of Technology and Engineering Science Highlights AI and ESG Solutions
TechSUD 2025 served as a key platform for presenting high-impact research focused on integrating ESG principles to address challenges linked to rapid urbanisation, climate change, and digital transformation.
A total of 25 technical papers were presented, covering AI and data-driven smart innovations, sustainable construction materials, climate-resilient infrastructure, nature-based solutions, intelligent building management, and the future of sustainable electronics.
Five faculty members from WOU’s School of Technology and Engineering Science (STE)—Ts Dr Syabiha Shith, Dr Nurul ’Ulyani Mohd Najib, Dr Elamaran Manoharan, Ts Chew Bee Leng, and Ts Dhanaletchmi Narayanasamy—showcased research spanning smart city innovations with AI and big data, sustainable construction, intelligent building solutions, and green technologies for urban planning.
Securing the Momentum for National Development
The discussions at TechSUD 2025 have sparked several actionable ideas aimed at supporting Malaysia’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Moving forward, WOU will strengthen its collaboration with TAM and other industry and academic partners to ensure that insights from the symposium continue to shape educational frameworks and inform national strategies.
Through this ongoing partnership, the TechSUD platform will remain a vital forum for addressing real-world industry challenges and driving sustainable progress across the nation.