By Amirul Salam Hasan, Corporate Communications Office

Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) continues to strengthen its role as a sustainability-driven higher education institution by recently launching several strategic initiatives in the fields of renewable energy, environmental conservation, and community development.

Among the key initiatives announced was the organisation of the Sultan Mizan World Blue Economy Forum (WBEF) 2026, scheduled to take place in September 2026. This prestigious forum will serve as a regional and international collaboration platform in the Blue Economy, encompassing sectors such as marine renewable energy, marine biotechnology, community-based tourism, and sustainable fisheries.

According to UMT Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohd Zamri Ibrahim, the forum will bring together global leaders, policymakers, researchers, industry players, and the international community to discuss an inclusive, sustainable, and competitive future for the Blue Economy.

“Through Sultan Mizan WBEF 2026, UMT aims to strengthen Malaysia’s role as a leading and competitive regional hub for the Blue Economy, founded on sustainability principles,” he said.

Another initiative launched was the UMT–ETIQA Mangrove Education Park, a result of a strategic partnership between UMT and Etiqa General Takaful Berhad. This project is the only designated mangrove education park in the Kuala Nerus district gazetted as a learning and conservation area for natural mangrove ecosystems.

Etiqa has stepped forward as the main contributor, providing RM500,000 in funding for the development of learning infrastructure and teaching facilities within the park. The project is expected to benefit more than 20,000 UMT members and local community residents annually, while raising public awareness on the importance of mangrove ecosystems.

Professor Zamri explained that the education park will serve as a centre for recreation, research, and ecotourism that supports the university’s sustainability goals. Key facilities include the construction of a nearly 400-metre boardwalk traversing the mangrove habitat and connecting the UMT Mosque, library, and lecture complex.

“UMT will continue to serve as a leader in marine knowledge and sustainable research, not only advancing scholarship but also creating positive impacts for society and the nation,” Professor Zamri said.

The launch ceremony was held in conjunction with the UMT 23rd Convocation High Tea and was graced by the Chancellor of UMT, Her Royal Highness the Sultanah of Terengganu, Sultanah Nur Zahirah.

During the same ceremony, UMT also received RM3.3 million in zakat, waqf, and endowment contributions from various agencies to ensure the continuity of student welfare and development initiatives. Major contributors included the Terengganu Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIDAM), Lembaga Tabung Haji, PLUS Malaysia Berhad, Maybank Islamic Berhad, and Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad.

According to Professor Zamri, all contributions will be channelled through the UMT Ihsan Centre to support student welfare, academic development, and community well-being.