Synopsis

This talk, while primarily aimed at young engineers, also welcomes experienced professionals to collectively explore the evolving role of engineering in addressing global challenges and shaping a sustainable future. Drawing on the speaker’s extensive experience across industry, academia, and government, the session invites engaging discussions on the enduring relevance of engineering a discipline grounded in curiosity, passion, and problem-solving yet continuously reinventing itself to meet the demands of successive Industrial Revolutions.

The session delves into the profession’s transformation toward sustainability, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration, emphasizing the critical role of leadership in addressing contemporary issues such as climate change and digital transformation. Beyond technical expertise, it underscores the growing importance of systems thinking, cross-sector collaboration, and values-driven leadership guided by integrity and purpose.

Through personal reflections and lessons from a diverse career, the speaker would share insights on continuous learning, adaptability, and the courage to think beyond traditional job boundaries. The talk concludes with perspective on how young engineers can seize emerging opportunities in fields that offer both professional fulfilment and meaningful contributions to society.


Speakers Biodata

Ir. Dr. Sanjayan Velautham

Ir. Dr. Sanjay has over 35 years of experience spanning industry, government, international organizations, and academia. He holds a degree from UTM and completed postgraduate studies at Kyushu University, Japan.

Ir. Dr. Sanjayan began his professional journey at Tenaga Nasional Berhad before assuming roles as an Assoc. Prof. at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia,Deputy Director at the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) in Singapore, Power Services Head at General Electric for Asia-Pacific, Executive Director at the ASEAN Centre for Energy in Indonesia, and as CEO at the Sustainable Energy Development Authority (SEDA) Malaysia. He has also contributed to the Global Future Council on Energy at the World Economic Forum (2018–2019).

Currently, he serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Suruhanjaya Tenaga (Energy Commission) and is an advisory board member of the Asia Pacific Energy Research Centre (APERC), Japan. In 2019, he received the ASEAN Excellence in Energy Management by an Individual Award during the 37th ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting.