Kuala lumpur: Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM) is strengthening its research and innovation capabilities in defence and security through the establishment of the Sultan Ibrahim Centre of Excellence for Research and Innovation (PaKSI), in line with its UPNM30 Strategic Plan. UPNM Senior Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Strategic Development) Prof Datuk Dr Norhasni Zainal Abiddin stated that PaKSI was created to consolidate the university's research expertise under a more focused framework and translate it into solutions that support the country's strategic needs.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the centre is expected to reinforce UPNM's role as a reference point for defence and security while serving as a collaborative platform among academia, government, and industry. Dr. Norhasni emphasized that research in these fields must contribute to knowledge advancement and address the nation's actual needs. The research outcomes are aimed at enriching the body of knowledge, creating opportunities for technological development and innovation, enhancing local expertise, and providing input to improve the country's defence and security readiness and capabilities.
On June 25, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia and UPNM Chancellor, approved the proposed naming of the centre as the Sultan Ibrahim Centre of Excellence for Research and Innovation. Dr. Norhasni highlighted that the development of PaKSI is a key aspect of UPNM30, which guides the university's development towards 2030, with Centres of Excellence forming one of its five strategic pillars.
The concept for the centre was initiated under the leadership of UPNM Vice-Chancellor Lt Gen Datuk Arman Rumaizi Ahmad to bolster the university's research and innovation ecosystem. PaKSI's research framework is organized around two main clusters: Science and Technology, and Defence and Security Strategy. The Science and Technology cluster addresses areas such as defence vehicles and weaponry, human performance, and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosives (CBRNe) threats, among others. Meanwhile, the Defence and Security Strategy cluster focuses on special warfare, conflict studies, and domestic and international security.
Dr. Norhasni stated that PaKSI would prioritize evidence-based research to support national security policies and strategies while providing strategic analyses and policy recommendations to the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF), the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), and security agencies. She emphasized that PaKSI's success should be measured by tangible achievements rather than its establishment alone. UPNM aims for PaKSI to be recognized for relevant research, solution-driven innovation, trusted expertise, and meaningful contributions to national defence and security.