Prof Mahendhiran Champions Malaysia’s Blue Economy at International Forum

Professor Mahendhiran Sanggaran Nair, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research and Sustainability) at Sunway University, recently delivered a keynote address at the Promoting Blue Economy and Overcoming Implementation Challenges Forum in Mauritius. His presentation, "Malaysia’s Blue Economic Plan: Unlocking the Value of the Ocean," detailed strategies for maximizing Return on Value (ROV) through economic, social, environmental, and political dimensions.

The plan is rooted in rigorous evidence-based policy modeling, developed through a massive collaborative effort. Professor Mahendhiran highlighted the vital contributions of the Sunway Institute for Global Strategy and Competitiveness (IGSC) alongside the Sunway Business School, the School of Medicine & Life Sciences, and the School of Mathematical Sciences. Their work involved complex data modeling and pathway projections to ensure sustainable growth for coastal communities and eco-friendly economic sectors.

Supported by the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI) and the Academy of Sciences Malaysia, the mission also strengthened international ties. Professor Mahendhiran expressed gratitude to the Mauritian government and UNESCO’s ISTIC for their hospitality. Moving forward, he aims to collaborate with Mauritius and other island states to apply these sophisticated research models to their own Blue Economy plans, further cementing Sunway University’s role in global sustainability leadership.