OBJECTIVE:

On 7 August 2026, UCSI University hosted “Beyond the Green Hype – Why Our Energy Future Depends on Humility”, a forum held in conjunction with the National Climate Governance Summit 2026. Organised by the Faculty of Engineering, Technology & Built Environment, the session featured Meenakshi Raman, Prof Emeritus Dr Nik Meriam Nik Sulaiman, FASc, Assoc Prof Dr MD Shouquat Hossain, and Assoc Prof Ir Dr Lee Kiat Moon, with Prof Dato’ Dr Ahmad Ibrahim, FASc serving as moderator. The forum brought together academics, experts, and students to explore the complex relationship between climate change, energy, justice, and global inequality.

The forum examined key challenges surrounding the global climate and energy crisis, including carbon emissions, historical emitters, economic transitions, and the unequal impacts of climate change. Discussions also explored the financial challenges involved in energy projects and questioned how resources and investments can be better directed towards addressing climate change. The speakers encouraged participants to reflect on global priorities and the need to focus greater attention on tackling the climate crisis rather than allowing conflict and competing interests to overshadow urgent climate action.

The discussion further highlighted the importance of strong policy direction and guidance from the top level, with governments and policymakers playing a crucial role in shaping effective climate action and energy transitions. The concept of common but differentiated responsibility was also emphasised, recognising that countries have different historical contributions to emissions, economic capacities, and responsibilities. The panel explored the importance of pursuing a just energy transition that is fair, inclusive, accessible, and economically viable. The session also featured an engaging Q&A session with students, providing them with an opportunity to raise questions, share perspectives, and engage directly with the speakers on the challenges and opportunities surrounding energy and climate action.

Ultimately, the forum encouraged participants to look beyond the “green hype” and critically consider who benefits, who bears the environmental costs, and who should take responsibility for climate action. Through meaningful dialogue and active student participation, the session reinforced the need to place climate change at the centre of policy and development decisions while balancing environmental responsibility, economic development, energy security, and social justice towards a more sustainable and resilient future