Penang: Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) and FPT Corporation (FPT) have jointly launched the UTP-FPT Energy Artificial Intelligence (AI) Corporate Lab. This initiative aims to create AI-enabled solutions that will enhance energy transition, operational excellence, and sustainability across the energy value chain.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the new lab offers a strategic industry-academia platform that unites researchers, industry practitioners, and technology experts. The collaboration focuses on leveraging AI to improve operational performance, facilitate lower-carbon operations, and advance the transition towards a sustainable energy future. The formal establishment of the Energy AI Corporate Lab occurred during the opening of UTP's flagship World Engineering, Science and Technology Congress (ESTCON) 2026 at the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC).
UTP highlighted that the lab will act as a catalyst for translating advanced research into practical industry applications through AI, data analytics, and digital technologies. It will provide a platform to develop, test, and validate technologies in collaboration with the industry, thereby bridging the gap from research to adoption and commercialization.
The initiative is rooted in a seven-year partnership between UTP and FPT, which has evolved from student mobility and academic exchanges to broader collaboration in research, AI, data analytics, digital infrastructure, and technology enablement. This partnership has so far generated over RM10 million in collaborative research value, supported more than 490 mobility participations, and enabled 15 FPT staff members to pursue doctoral studies at UTP.
UTP President Mohamed Firouz Asnan emphasized that the creation of the Energy AI Corporate Lab underscores UTP's dedication to remaining at the cutting edge of technology research that offers tangible benefits to industry and society. He stated that the collaboration will merge UTP's strengths in energy research and innovation with FPT's expertise in AI and digital technologies, aiming to improve the performance and sustainability of the energy sector while developing the necessary talent and capabilities for the future.
Tran Hong Chung, FPT Corporation FPT Software Vice President and FPT Malaysia Chief Executive Officer, remarked that the expanded collaboration with UTP is designed to provide the industry with intelligent AI-driven solutions and a skilled workforce capable of navigating the complex demands of sustainable energy transition. He noted FPT's commitment to leading AI-driven transformation and nurturing specialized talent for the ASEAN market and beyond.
The Energy AI Corporate Lab will focus on four strategic areas: the Education Centre of Excellence, Joint Research and Development (R and D), Consultancy, Advisory and Intellectual Property Commercialization, and Professional Education. Under the Joint R and D pillar, initial initiatives include a physics-informed dynamic AI simulator for Small Modular Reactor (SMR) systems, AI-enabled Digital Core and subsurface solutions, AI-based carbon data standardization, accounting and validation for the energy sector, and Smart Campus applications using AI-enabled Sustainable Campus Intelligence.
UTP stated that these projects aim to advance the deployment of AI-enabled technologies while providing practical solutions for the industry. The establishment of the Energy AI Corporate Lab signifies a significant milestone in the long-standing UTP-FPT partnership, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing innovation, accelerating technology adoption, and developing future-ready talent.