Co-Authors: Dr. Muhammad Adli Mustapa and Ts. Rohaizad Hafidz Rozali
Malaysia, characterised by predominantly low- to medium-wave energy seas, holds significant potential to transform this natural resource into a long-term sustainable energy solution.
Building on this potential, two researchers from the Ocean Energy Cluster of Universiti Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Institute of Marine Engineering Technology (UniKL MIMET) are spearheading a joint research initiative with Saga University to develop sustainable ocean energy technologies.
Dr. Muhammad Adli Mustapa and Ts. Rohaizad Hafidz Rozali, representing UniKL, formalised the research collaboration during a programme held at Saga University from 1 to 4 February 2026.
According to Ts. Rohaizad Hafidz, the collaboration marks the beginning of a structured five-year research plan dedicated to advancing sustainable ocean energy solutions, particularly for small island and coastal communities.
The programme also brought together researchers and academics from Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia, and Universiti Tenaga Nasional, all sharing a common focus on ocean energy conversion technologies.
“The Institute of Ocean Energy at Saga University has already developed and tested a prototype wave energy device.
“Through this joint research collaboration, the focus will move towards technology transfer and technical knowledge sharing, particularly in adapting the existing device design to suit Malaysia’s wave energy conditions.
“We also intend to apply for international research grants from Japan, initiate student mobility programmes, and develop prototype-scale testing adapted to Malaysia’s sea conditions,” he said.
Throughout the programme, participants engaged in technical sessions at advanced hydrodynamic laboratories and experimental wave flumes, where testing methodologies for ocean energy devices were demonstrated.
The visit also included detailed briefings on turbine technologies and other ocean energy conversion systems, providing researchers with deeper insights into current advancements and practical deployment strategies.
The initiative is expected to drive innovation in ocean energy technologies, reinforcing Malaysia’s commitment to sustainable development while positioning UniKL MIMET as an active contributor in global marine renewable energy research.
These research efforts are closely aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, as ocean energy represents a reliable yet underutilised renewable resource with strong potential to enhance energy accessibility and long-term affordability.
Note: In line with Malaysia’s aspiration to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) continues to strengthen and expand its efforts through various initiatives. This article specifically supports SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 17 (Partnership for the Goals).
