OBJECTIVE:

UCSI University Distinguished Chair Prof Dr Ooi Keng Boon, an elected Fellow of The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS), was invited by the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) to deliver a keynote address at the TWAS-SAPREP Regional Workshop on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in Beijing, China. As the only representative from a Malaysian private university among the invited speakers, he joined leading researchers and young scholars from China, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and Laos to exchange ideas on how science, technology and innovation can address global sustainability challenges.

In his keynote presentation, “Mobile-enabled Digital Ecosystems for Sustainable Economic Growth and Smart Communities,” Prof Ooi shared how mobile technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), digital platforms and data-driven systems can accelerate sustainable economic growth, strengthen SME participation, expand financial inclusion, improve public services and build more inclusive and resilient smart communities. He also highlighted that digital transformation must be guided by strong governance, public trust, ethical AI practices and multi-stakeholder collaboration to ensure technological progress delivers sustainable and inclusive benefits for society. His presentation aligns with SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

Prof Ooi’s participation reflects the growing international recognition of UCSI University’s research excellence and its commitment to advancing impactful research on the global stage. A Clarivate Highly Cited Researcher 2023 and one of the 17 UCSI academics recognised in Stanford University’s World’s Top 2% Scientists 2025 list, he continues to strengthen UCSI’s contribution to global conversations on digital transformation, artificial intelligence and sustainable development through international collaboration and research excellence.