SYNOPSIS

This presentation by Professor Ir. Dr. Mohd. Shahir Liew discusses the challenges researchers face in a fast-changing and unpredictable environment, known as VUCA — Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity. It highlights the need for adaptable approaches in research and innovation. Key concepts such as the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) and the Technology Valley of Death are introduced to explain the gap between research and commercialisation. The session encourages researchers to plan strategically to ensure their work leads to real-world impact.


BIODATA OF SPEAKER

Professor Ir. Dr. Mohd Shahir Liew earned his PhD from Texas in 1988 and spent 23 years as a consulting engineer on offshore, high-rise, and infrastructure projects worth over USD 4.5B. He joined UTP in 2009, becoming Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research) in 2017, elevating UTP to Malaysia’s No.1 research university. In 2023, he joined UNM as Vice Provost (Research & Knowledge Exchange). A National High Foreign Talent Expert (China) and Chairman of Energy Institute UK (Malaysia), he specializes in decarbonization, ESG, and energy transition. With 350+ publications, he champions professional development, believing that "A leader creates leaders."