Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) recently hosted a podcast that explored a pressing question: "Can fossil fuels still play a responsible role in our energy future?"
This is the first podcast organised by the Faculty of Engineering, led by the Petroleum Engineering Department, and supported by the UTP Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Student Chapter, the SPE Kuala Lumpur Section, and the Asia International Association of Drilling Contractors UTP Student Chapter.
The podcast was held in conjunction with the SPE Asia Pacific Regional Qualification (APRQ) Petrobowl 2025, which took place at UTP from 8 to 10 July 2025.
UTP team emerged as champions and secured a coveted spot at the PetroBowl Championship to be held during the SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition (ATCE) in Texas, USA, this October.
The session brought together industry leaders, academic experts, and aspiring engineers for a strategic dialogue on the evolving energy landscape. It was part of UTP's ongoing efforts to strengthen strategic partnerships with key industry players like PETRONAS and Velesto, reinforcing the university's role in driving sustainable development and nurturing talent in the energy sector.
It was also attended by Ir Mohamed Firouz Asnan, President of UTP, reflecting strong institutional support for the initiative.
Titled "Future-Proofing Fossil Fuels: Leadership, Innovation, and the Role of Young Engineers," the discussion focused on the shifting demands of the oil and gas sector, intergenerational leadership, and the critical need for innovation and operational excellence.
The session was moderated by Ts Anwarudin Saidu Mohamed, Executive Director of Reservoir Link Group, Chairperson of SPE KL Section, and a UTP alumnus. Panellists included En Hazli Sham Kassim, Senior Vice President, Malaysia Asset and CEO PETRONAS Carigali Sdn Bhd, Ir Ts Megat Zariman Abdul Rahim, President and CEO of Velesto Energy Berhad and CEO @ Faculty, Faculty of Engineering at UTP and Professor Dato' Ir Ts Dr Mohamed Ibrahim Abdul Mutalib, UTP Provost and Chief Academic Officer of Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS.
They explored how fossil fuels—still a major component of the global energy mix, especially in developing economies—can be harnessed more efficiently and sustainably. The discussion emphasised the urgent need for smarter upstream operations, data-driven decision-making, and continuous improvement for responsible resource management.
A central message was clear: fossil fuels do have a future—but only if the industry evolves. Innovation, leadership, and operational excellence must become the new standard.
The speakers also highlighted the importance of cultivating the next generation of engineers. Young professionals, they stressed, must see themselves as agents of change, capable of challenging outdated systems and introducing bold, forward-thinking ideas.
This podcast also serves to enhance the visibility of the university's Petroleum Engineering programme and its commitment to developing future-ready engineers equipped to tackle global energy challenges.
Beyond the university, the podcast meaningfully contributes to national and global conversations about energy security, sustainability, and responsible fossil fuel utilisation, and highlights the critical role that developing economies can play in shaping a just and inclusive energy transition.
Above all, the session reminds us that the future of energy isn't just about technology or policy—it's about people. At its heart are the young engineers ready to lead with purpose, innovation, and integrity. UTP is proud to champion this vision, nurturing a generation of leaders prepared to transform the energy sector for a better, more sustainable tomorrow.
