By Solar Energy Research Institute
Photos by Shahiddan Saidi
BANGI, 19 November 2025 – Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) through the Solar Energy Research Institute (SERI), has embarked on a strategic research collaboration with LONGi Solar Co. and Pekat Teknologi Sdn Bhd to enhance its sustainable campus agenda.
This partnership will accelerate UKM’s efforts to integrate renewable energy solutions and build a campus that is more resilient, supporting its commitment to advancing renewable energy and accelerating a sustainable energy transition across campuses and communities.
UKM vice-chancellor Professor Dr. Sufian Jusoh, commented that this partnership with a global industry leader like LONGi Solar and Pekat Teknologi Sdn Bhd as a local technology enabler represents a significant opportunity for the university to translate its research into tangible impact.
“It aligns perfectly with our commitment to advancing knowledge and contributing to national development.
“This partnership enables knowledge sharing and capacity building between UKM, LONGi Solar and Pekat Teknologi, advancing sustainable technologies for the university, community, and the nation,” he said.
SERI director, Prof Dr Norasikin Ahmad Ludin said that this collaboration is a pivotal moment for the institute.
She added that it is time for the university to move beyond theoretical research and apply its outcomes to create tangible benefits for society.
“This partnership will bridge the critical gap between academia and industry, allowing us to co-develop real-world solutions.
“Our campus will transform into a ‘living laboratory,’ where we can develop, test, and showcase pilot projects in renewable energy and smart grid integration.
“Crucially, this living lab will be the first in the region to test the real-world impact and performance of next-generation solar technologies, specifically silicon-perovskite tandem panels, under the distinct and challenging conditions of the tropical climate.
“These real show cases will serve as a national benchmark, demonstrating the practical and impactful outcomes of sustainable energy research for the industry and the nation,” she said.
APAC President of LONGi, Mr. Frank Zhao emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating: “At LONGi, our mission is to make the best of solar energy to build a green world. We believe this vision cannot be achieved alone.
“Our partnership with UKM is a pivotal step in combining theoretical excellence with practical application.
“We are committed to leveraging our global experience to nurture local talent, accelerate the commercialization of research, and directly contribute to Malaysia’s and the broader region’s ambitious renewable energy goals,” he said.
The collaboration formally brings together UKM’s cutting-edge academic research, particularly through its renowned Solar Energy Research Institute (SERI), with LONGi’s global industrial expertise and technological prowess in solar photovoltaic products.
Meanwhile, Group Managing Director of Pekat Group, Mr Chin Soo Mau, said that the company is incredibly proud to partner with UKM in their shared vision and in the ambitious journey toward becoming a smart, green and sustainable campus.
“Pekat Group is committed to leveraging our expertise in solar photovoltaic systems, energy storage, and smart energy management to provide robust, long-term solutions and sets a new benchmark for campus sustainability in the region,” he said.
This partnership marks a significant leap forward, positioning UKM as a leader in applied renewable energy research and setting a new standard for sustainable campus development in Southeast Asia.
