Seri Iskandar:The Weststar Group, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM), and Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) are set to explore collaboration in developing advanced technologies for both defence and civilian applications. This initiative aims to enhance Malaysia's defence capabilities and resilience by focusing on dual-use innovations.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the proposed partnership will include joint research efforts, multidisciplinary leadership development, and the establishment of joint degree programs. The collaboration leverages UPNM's strategic defence expertise, UTP's engineering capabilities, and The Weststar Group's industrial strengths to bolster local technology development and support a comprehensive government approach.

The potential areas of cooperation extend to energy security, with a focus on protecting critical energy infrastructure, enhancing cybersecurity for energy systems, and ensuring energy supply resilience for defence operations. Maritime energy security, crisis management, and strategic policy development will also be addressed to improve the country's preparedness and operational continuity amidst global geopolitical uncertainties.

During a recent visit to UTP in Seri Iskandar, Perak, led by UPNM Board of Directors chairman and The Weststar Group managing director Tan Sri Syed Azman Syed Ibrahim, discussions were held regarding these collaborative opportunities. UTP president Mohamed Firouz Asnan received the delegation, which included UPNM vice-chancellor Lieutenant-General Datuk Arman Rumaizi Ahmad.

Furthermore, UTP's ongoing research in nuclear technology, energy storage, advanced materials, and other innovative fields was presented to the delegation. Following the visit, researchers from UPNM, UTP, and The Weststar Group will identify specific areas for joint research and commercialization, with senior management refining the details of the collaboration.