Weststar, UPNM and UTP launch joint defence and energy technology partnership

Weststar Group, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM) and Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) agreed to explore cooperation on advanced technologies that can be used in both defence and civilian sectors. The collaboration will cover joint research, multidisciplinary leadership development and joint degree programmes, leveraging UPNM’s strategic defence expertise, UTP’s engineering strengths and Weststar’s industry capabilities.

Key topics include protecting critical energy infrastructure, cybersecurity for energy systems, ensuring energy-supply resilience for defence missions and maritime energy security. The partnership was discussed during a delegation visit to UTP in Seri Iskandar, led by UPNM Board chairman and Weststar managing director Tan Sri Syed Azman Syed Ibrahim, with UPNM vice-chancellor Lieutenant-General Datuk Arman Rumaizi Ahmad also present.

UTP president Mohamed Firouz Asnan briefed the group on research in nuclear technology, energy storage, advanced materials, e-mobility and other emerging fields. Researchers from the universities and Weststar will identify joint projects and commercialisation pathways, while senior management refines degree and technology focus details.