OBJECTIVE:

ESTCON 2026, the ninth edition of Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP)’s flagship World Engineering, Science and Technology Congress, was held on 8–9 September 2026 at the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC). Organised by UTP, with PETRONAS as the main partner, the biennial congress brought together global experts from academia and industry to explore pathways towards a sustainable future. 

Themed “Technology, Resilience and Regeneration: Engineering Pathways to a Sustainable Future,” ESTCON 2026 featured three core conferences focusing on Energy Security, Regenerative Futures and Sustainable Living. The event highlighted how innovation, adaptive systems and regenerative approaches can drive sustainable progress and create solutions that strengthen future communities and environments. 

Representing UCSI University, Prof. Emeritus Tan Sri Dr. Zakri Abdul Hamid, Founding Chair, International Institute of Science Diplomacy & Sustainability (UCSI-IISDS) and Joint-Chairman (Government), Malaysian Industry-Government Group for High Technology (MIGHT), participated in Congress Forum 1: “Is Nuclear Energy the Missing Piece in Global Energy Security?” 

The forum provided a platform for experts to exchange perspectives on nuclear energy and its potential role in strengthening global energy security. Prof. Emeritus Tan Sri Dr. Zakri’s participation further reflected UCSI University’s commitment to advancing dialogue and collaboration on science, technology, sustainability and global challenges.