QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2026
Environmental Impact Environmental ResearchER3: Research Center with an Environmental Sustainability Focus
Environmental sustainability is a critical global concern, necessitating dedicated research efforts to address the complex challenges associated with climate change, resource management, and sustainable development. This document highlights the presence of research centers focused on environmental sustainability, emphasizing their roles in advancing knowledge, shaping policies, and fostering collaborations.
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) plays a significant role in this field through its specialized research institutes, such as the Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI) and the Institute of Climate Change (IPI). These institutes, along with their associated research centers, conduct multidisciplinary studies aimed at balancing environmental conservation with economic and social progress. Their work spans diverse areas, including disaster prevention, climate science, sustainable governance, and resource management.
UKM is at the forefront of renewable energy research through the Solar Energy Research Institute (SERI) and the Fuel Cell Institute (SELFUEL). SERI focuses on advancing solar technologies for cleaner and more efficient energy solutions, while SELFUEL pioneers research in fuel cell and hydrogen energy as sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels. Together, these institutes drive innovation, support Malaysia’s green energy transition, and contribute to global sustainability efforts.
By consolidating expertise from multiple disciplines, these research centers contribute to Malaysia’s and the global community’s sustainability efforts. Their initiatives support government decision-making, industry innovation, and community resilience, reinforcing the importance of scientific research in achieving long-term environmental goals.
Table ER3.1 : Summary of the Research Centre with a specific focus on environmental sustainability
1. Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI)
www.ukm.my/lestari/ms
The Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI) was established on 1st October 1994 as a multidisciplinary institute within the structure of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. It fulfills the aspirations of the university, as envisioned by the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to realise the goal of sustainable development through research and capacity development.
LESTARI was also established to serve as a reference centre capable of dealing with environment and development issues, assisting government in formulating policies based on research of a holistic and balanced kind. The development function is directed towards enhancing human resource capacity through skill development and training, for both government and private sectors.
Vision
LESTARI aims to be the centre of excellence in research and training on matters pertaining to environment and development in Malaysia and the Asia Pacific.
Missions
- As a reference point, addressing issues pertaining to sustainability in development.
- As a focal point, conducting multi-disciplinary and integrated research in balancing synergies and trade-offs between environment and development.
- As a primary mover, influencing policy and building capacity to meet the aspirations of sustainable development.
Institute For Environment And Development (LESTARI) was established on consolidation and mergers under the thrust of sustainable science involving 5 research center:
- Southeast Asia Disaster Prevention Research Initiative (SEADPRI-UKM)
www.ukm.my/seadpri
Southeast Asia Disaster Prevention Research Initiative (SEADPRI), was established on 1 June 2008 as a research institute under the administrative structure of Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI), UKM. SEADPRI conducts holistic disaster related research at global scale, in support of government’s decision making on climatic, geological and technological hazards as well as enhancing human capital and capacity of workforce at local, state, national and international levels, particularly in Southeast Asia.
- Langkawi Research Centre
www.ukm.my/ppl/en
This centre is responsible for developing natural resources to build Langkawi’s capacity as the leading international tourist destination in the country. This intention was realised with the establishment of a Memorandum of Understanding between UKM (through LESTARI) with the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) for 2001-2005 and which was renewed for 2006-2010. One of the main initiatives of LESTARI and LADA through PPG was the development of the Langkawi Geopark.
- Environmental, Economic and Social Sustainability Research Centre (KASES)
www.ukm.my/kases
This centre was established on January 1, 2006 to focus multidisciplinary studies related to environmental, natural resource, economic and social sustainability. This research scope of this centre includes integrated research on environmental integrity and sustainable natural resource utilization, sustainability of economic and industrial systems that promote social well-being and environmental integrity (Economic and Industrial Sustainability); and social development of various communities based on the sustainability concept (Social and Community Well-being)
The main focus of KASES is research and development. To this end, the effort to obtain research funding, graduate assistant and postgraduate fellowships have been carried out. Collaboration with various local and international parties would be increased to promote central achievement in dealing with environmental sustainability, economic and social issues. Human resource development would be given priority in order to build a credible research group in the relevant fields of study.
- Research Center for Science and Sustainability Governance (SGK)
www.ukm.my/sgk
This centre was established to highlight UKMS and LESTARI’S contribution especially in sustainable development. Sustainability science, extensively developed in LESTARI through various core groups, would be more comprehensive if formulated together in a special governance framework for sustainability. At the early stages of its inception, the centre focused on cultivating a Malaysian-styled governance framework of sustainability to be utilised at various management levels. This Malaysian-styled framework is needed to cater for its multiracial and multireligious community. At the same time, research at the core group level was further enhanced to support the continuous effort towards sustainable development.
The establishment of this centre leads to the training and creating pool of experts who are well-versed in sustainability. Comprehensive sustainability management demands the development of science and applications towards sustainable development. Cooperation in research and joint facilitation of programmes were prominent in LESTARI. Research cooperation towards science and governance for sustainability between LESTARI and various outside parties showed that LESTARI had been singled out by stakeholders beyond UKM.
2. Institute of Climate Change (IPI)
www.ukm.my/ipi
The Climate Change Institute was established based on the unification and merging of knowledge under the thrust of climate involving the following 4 entities which is The Research Centre for Tropical Climate Change System, The Space Science Center (ANGKASA),The Earth Observation Centre (EOC) and The Environmental Management Center (EMC).
Vision:
To become an educational and research institution and an internationally reputable reference center in the field of climate change and space science.
Mission:
Through study programs and research activities, this institute will explore and increase the desired knowledge and expertise in the field of climate change and space science for human progress and well-being.
- Centre for Tropical Climate Change System (IKLIM)
www.ukm.my/ipi/iklim
The Research Centre for Tropical Climate Change System (or IKLIM, ‘Climate’ in Malay) has been restructured under the Institute for Climate Change (IPI), UKM. IKLIM is a dedicated research center for advancing knowledge on the physical basis and impacts of regional climate change, particularly in Malaysia and the Southeast Asia region. In the realization that climate change is a global issue, IKLIM also extends its collaboration with other international institutions in climate change research.
- Space Science Centre (ANGKASA)
www.ukm.my/ipi/pusat-sains-angkasa
The Space Science Center (ANGKASA) was established on August 1, 2003 with its original name of the Space Science Institute. On 16 December 2013, ANGKASA was converted into a center and merged together with IPI, EOC and IKLIM to become an entity under the Climate Change Institute (IPI), National University of Malaysia. ANGKASA was established as a multidisciplinary research center that conducts teaching at the postgraduate level.
- Earth Observation Centre (EOC)
www.ukm.my/ipi/pusat-pencerapan-bumi
The Earth Observation Centre (EOC) is a centre of excellence under the Institute of Climate Change. The main focus is conducting research on the impacts of global change through the application of Remote Sensing and Geographical Information System (GIS). This centre pools researchers from the various fields such as social sciences, engineering, science and technology, geology and biology.
EOC takes an interdisciplinary approach to geography, linking several disciplines involving both social sciences and biophysical science. Members of EOC have been successful in obtaining international and national grants to conduct research in Southeast Asia on such issues such as Land Use and Land Cover Change in Malaysia, Forest Cover Change and Forest Assessment and Management in Southeast Asia, Deforestation and Missing Sink for Carbon, Sediment Plume in Selangor and Tropical Forest Assessment and Management. The University programmes that use RS / GIS laboratories at EOC include geography, engineering, geology, marine science, environmental science, hydrology and conservation biology.
- Environmental Management Centre
www.ukm.my/ipi/emc-bm
The Environmental Management Center (EMC) is a center established under the Climate Change Institute (IPI), UKM in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Water (KASA) as a research center and national data repository as well as KASA’s reference center on emerging issues. related to the environment and climate change.
EMC’s long-term function is to act as a reference center for KASA in the formulation of policies and policies related to the environment and climate change. Along with this desire, EMC is establishing a network of expertise known as the Malaysian Environment and Climate Change Action Network (ME.CAN) which will bring together experts related to the environment and climate change consisting of members from within and outside UKM. As KASA’s reference center, EMC is also developing a data repository to collect and store data related to the environment and climate change. Among the areas of study and research that will be carried out by EMC are environmental diplomacy, emerging pollution, ecosystems, education, social, and other emerging issues related to the environment and climate change.
3. Solar Energy Research Institute (SERI)
www.ukm.my/seri
The Solar Energy Research Institute (SERI) at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) is a renowned research institution dedicated to advancing the development and utilization of solar energy in Malaysia and beyond. With a strong commitment to promoting sustainable energy solutions, SERI plays a vital role in driving the country’s transition towards clean and renewable energy sources. Recognized for its cutting-edge research, innovative technologies, and multidisciplinary approach, SERI brings together experts from diverse fields such as engineering, physics, chemistry, materials science, and environmental science. SERI’s research primarily focuses on enhancing the efficiency, reliability, and affordability of solar energy systems.
4. Fuel Cell Institute (SELFUEL)
www.ukm.my/selfuel
The establishment of Fuel Cell Institute (Institut Sel Fuel), the first research institute in Malaysia conducting research on fuel cell and hydrogen energy, was approved by the Ministry of Higher Education on the 1st of July 2006. The name of the Institute was initially Institute of Fuel Cell Technology (Institut Teknologi Sel Bahan Api). The new name Fuel Cell Institute (Institut Sel Fuel) was approved on 14th July 2007.
Vision:
World class centre for fuel cell and hydrogen technology; and for energy policy and management.
Mission:
-To explore the frontiers of knowledge in science, engineering, management, and economy for the development of world-class indigenous fuel cell and hydrogen technology and sustainable energy management and policy.
-To develop excellent world-class human capital in these areas.
5. Institut Informatik Visual (IVI)
www.ivi.ukm.my
Established in 2010, the Institute of Visual Informatics (IVI) is a renowned centre of excellence in the realm of Computer Science & ICT. It seamlessly integrates with various other disciplines including education, medicine & health, engineering, and socio-economics, thus earning its reputation as a multi-disciplinary centre of excellence recognized both nationally and internationally. Visual Informatics, a captivating and thought-provoking branch of research within the domain of Computer Science & ICT, is the primary focus of IVI.
Vision:
IVI is committed to becoming an institute of excellence in the field of visual informatics to lead the nation’s dynamic progressive industrial revolution.
Mission:
To be the preferred institute of excellence in the field of visual informatics that lead digital technology by conducting cutting -edge research across the industrial and humanitarian revolution.
6. Faculty of Science and Technology (FST)
www.ukm.my/fst
The Faculty of Science and Technology is one of the largest faculties at UKM that offers 21 undergraduate study programs that include more than 20 areas of specialization in pure science and applied science through management that relies on the expertise of FST academics. Undergraduate students are not only able to deepen their field of science but have the opportunity to gain knowledge in various other fields of science across social science studies in addition to having the opportunity to enhance the image of the university through courses that further improve their skills in management, communication and computers. Science and technology will play an important role in the development and progress of the country during this challenging and uncertain situation. I am confident that FST will take on this challenge with full confidence and pay it off successfully through the strength of this faculty, which is its study and research program.
Vision:
FST is determined to be an educational center and generator of advanced science and technology knowledge, forming a knowledgeable, dynamic, innovative and virtuous society.
Mission:
Aspires to be a selected academic center that emphasizes world-class education and research.
- Nuclear Technology Research Center
www.ukm.my/nuklear
Nuclear Technology Research Centre a hub of excellence in nuclear science and technology research. Established with the mission to advance knowledge, innovation, and applications of nuclear technology, the centre plays a pivotal role in addressing national and global challenges through research, education, and collaboration. Nuclear Technology Research Centre is determined to be a leading, dynamic, creative, innovative and ethically based nuclear science and technology teaching, service and research center.
- Centre for Insect Systematics (CIS)
www.ukm.my/cis
Centre for Insect Systematics (CIS) of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) is one of its kind in Southeast Asia. CIS is also one of the UKM’s centres of excellence. CIS was established in 1993 following the Agenda 21 of the Rio Declaration. Since its inception, the centre has a collection of over 100,000 specimens, of which >120 are type specimens. CIS has its own world-circulated journal SERANGGA, which is dedicated to publication of research findings in insect systematics and diversity, particularly of Southeast Asia as well as other parts of the world.
- Botanical Garden UKM
www.ukm.my/tamanbotanibangi
Centre for Insect Systematics (CIS) of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) is one of its kind in Southeast Asia. CIS is also one of the UKM’s centres of excellence. CIS was established in 1993 following the Agenda 21 of the Rio Declaration. Since its inception, the centre has a collection of over 100,000 specimens, of which >120 are type specimens. CIS has its own world-circulated journal SERANGGA, which is dedicated to publication of research findings in insect systematics and diversity, particularly of Southeast Asia as well as other parts of the world.
- Water Research and Analysis Center (ALIR)
www.ukm.my/alir
ALIR was established officially in 2006, has core members and a panel of consultants from the university specialized in various fields related to water analysis, chemistry, environmental health and treatment. ALIR is an excellent centre at the Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. There are three divisions under ALIR, which are Training, Research and Laboratory Testing.
7. Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment (FKAB)
www.ukm.my/jurutera/ms/utama/
The plan to establish the Faculty of Engineering had started back in 1978 with the formation of the Electronic Unit and the Industrial Chemistry Unit under the flagship of the Faculty of Science on 1st May 1978. Both units offered programmes linked to engineering in nature to science students at the undergraduate level. In 1980, the Industrial Chemistry Unit was renamed to the Chemistry Technology Unit which offered the Chemistry Technology Programme.
Vision:
Become a world-class center of excellence in engineering and the built environment that leads the integrity of civilization.
Mission:
Drive the development of knowledge, strengthen strategic networks and produce holistic graduates with a patriotic spirit.
- Research Centre for Sustainable Process Technology (CESPRO)
www.ukm.my/cespro
Sustainable Process Technology refers to the application of environmentally friendly and resource-efficient methods in industrial processes. This field of research focuses on developing innovative technologies and strategies to minimize energy consumption, reduce waste generation, and mitigate environmental impact across various manufacturing sectors. Sustainable Process Technology aims to optimize production processes by integrating renewable energy sources, enhancing material efficiency, and implementing cleaner production techniques.
- Smart and Sustainable Township Research Centre (SUTRA)
www.ukm.my/sutra
Sustainable Township Research encompasses interdisciplinary studies aimed at developing and implementing sustainable practices within urban areas. This research delves into various aspects of urban planning, architecture, transportation, energy, waste management, and community development, with a focus on minimizing environmental impact, enhancing resilience, and promoting social equity. Through innovative strategies and technologies, Sustainable Township Research aims to create thriving communities that balance economic growth with environmental stewardship, fostering long-term sustainability and quality of life for residents.
- Centre for Automotive Research (CAR)
www.ukm.my/car/en
The Centre for Automotive Research is a dedicated hub for advancing automotive technologies and addressing industry challenges through research and innovation. This center conducts interdisciplinary studies, collaborating with academia, industry, and government agencies to develop cutting-edge solutions in areas such as vehicle design, propulsion systems, autonomous driving, and sustainable mobility. By leveraging state-of-the-art facilities and expertise, the Centre for Automotive Research aims to drive technological advancements, enhance vehicle performance, and promote sustainability within the automotive industry.
- Centre for Engineering Education Research (P3K)
www.ukm.my/p3k
The Centre for Engineering Education Research is a pivotal institution dedicated to enhancing the quality and effectiveness of engineering education through rigorous research and innovation. By exploring innovative pedagogical approaches, leveraging emerging technologies, and fostering collaboration within the engineering education community, the Centre for Engineering Education Research seeks to elevate the standards of engineering education, prepare future engineers for real-world challenges, and drive continuous improvement in engineering pedagogy and practice.
- UKM-YSD Chair for Sustainability
www.ukm.my/ukmysdchair
The UKM-YSD Chair for Sustainability is dedicated to leading sustainability initiatives through research in climate change and circular solutions to ensure long-term productivity and well-being. Its mission focuses on climate resilience, capacity building, knowledge dissemination, and smart circular solutions. The key objectives include providing smart circular solutions for industrial and societal well-being, enhancing climate resilience for a low-carbon economy, and fostering capacity building through knowledge sharing. Additionally, it emphasizes knowledge generation to support sustainability and conducts impact assessments to evaluate economic and social transformations. Through research and innovation, the organization strives to build a sustainable and resilient future.
8. Centre for Natural and Physical Laboratory Management UKM (ALAF-UKM)
www.ukm.my/alafukm
UKM Natural and Physical Laboratory Management Center or ALAF-UKM was approved for establishment on 8 September 2022, it is the result of the restructuring of several research centers consisting of 4 natural laboratories and 2 physical laboratories.
Under UKM Natural and Physical Laboratory Management Center or ALAF-UKM there are 4 research center which is:
- Marine Ecosystem Research Centre (EKOMAR)
www.ukm.my/ekomar
- Chini Lake Research Centre (PPTC)
www.ukm.my/pptc
Tasik Chini Research Center (PPTC) was established to promote biotic and abiotic based research activities that belong to the diversity of flora & fauna, water, soil and air.
PPTC was established under the auspices of the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), specifically to carry out research, teaching, field work, environmental awareness and the dissemination of integrated lake management information to the community.
From September 8, 2022, the Tasik Chini Research Center (PPTC) has been merged under new management through the restructuring of the natural and physical laboratories under the UKM’s Pusat Pengurusan Makmal Alami dan Fizikal or ALAF-UKM. ALAF-UKM becomes the management entity that will monitor and coordinate each research laboratory centrally.
- Fraser Hill Research Centre (PPBF)
www.ukm.my/fraser
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) has established a research center in Fraser Hill, better known as RESEARCH CENTER BUKIT FRASER SMEs (PBF) in 1990, following the delivery of a piece of land from the Pahang State Government in 1989 with an area of 45 hectares and began to explore the research in Fraser Hill that is environmentally sensitive areas. These include riparian forest edges, valleys, rivers and ridges.
PBF implements various activities in reaching its objectives such as teaching, research and eco-tourism. Teaching undergraduate and postgraduate students in PBF is engaged in bio-engineering, hydrology, botany, ecology, soil, flora and fauna. Environment and the diversity of flora, fauna, biomimetik, nanotechnology and social environment in Bukit Fraser prepare the site for the fields of study.
- Langkawi Research Centre (PPL)
www.ukm.my/pplalaf
Langkawi Research Centre (PPL) is one of the natural laboratories under the Centre for Natural and Physical Laboratory Management UKM (ALAF-UKM), which was established to coordinate and strengthen the research and service activities of four natural laboratories and two physical laboratories at UKM in a more strategic and planned manner. Langkawi was declared a Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark (LUGGp) on June 1, 2007, the first in Southeast Asia. PPL was established in 2002 to support research on the assessment and conservation of natural (geological and biological) and cultural heritage, later translated into the development of geotourism that brings economic benefits to local communities.
9. Center for Research in Development, Social and Environment (SEEDS)
www.ukm.my/ppspp/language/ms
The Center for Research in Development plays a role as a generator and developer of knowledge about society, culture, development and the physical environment through a wide scope, but focused, by combining social science knowledge in the fields of anthropology, sociology, geography and development science. This Study Center also aims to create an environment for learning, research, publication and discourse that is sensitive to various current trends of thought about society and culture, development challenges and environmental issues.
10. IDEA Center UKM
www.ukm.my/ideaukm
UKM’s IDEA Centre is UKM’s strategic Research and Innovation office. In addition to being a consulting expert, the Research Cluster is also tasked with designing strategies and strengthening UKM’s research ecosystem in a more orderly, efficient and systematic manner.
In addition, this Research Cluster will also improve and strengthen collaborative relationships in domestic and foreign research through a benchmarking program with renowned universities. All this will only be achieved with the involvement and solid support of all UKM researchers, whether famous or young researchers.
Vision:
Catalyst of research and innovation ideas that break through the horizons of knowledge
Mission:
Driving a translational and multidisciplinary research ecosystem to sustain innovative research areas.
11. Center for Diagnostic, Therapeutic & Investigative Studies (CODTIS)
www.ukm.my/fsk/pusat-kajian-diagnostik-teraputik-dan-penyiasatan-codtis-2
Center for Diagnostic, Therapeutic & Investigative Studies (CODTIS) was established on 1 December 2019. Areas of expertise of researchers are forensic Science, diagnostic Imaging and experimental Therapeutics. CODTIS became a reference and collaborated with agencies at the national and international level such as: INTERPOL, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Malaysian Cocoa Board, Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital, UPM Nuclear Diagnostic Imaging Center and more.
Vision:
Transforming health science through diagnostics, therapeutic research and forensic science research.
Mission:
To be a center of excellence in diagnostics, imaging, therapeutics and forensic research in the health sciences.