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New Straits Times
30-07-2025
- Science
- New Straits Times
USM's Communication programme ranked among Asia's finest
GEORGE TOWN: Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) continues to make strides in the field of communication and media, with its Communication programme ranked among the best in the EduRank 2025 listings. This accomplishment reaffirms USM's standing not only in science and technology but also in the social sciences and humanities. It reflects the university's belief that social sciences are not simply complementary to the sciences, but are vital drivers of societal progress — shaping discourse, influencing perception, and guiding action both nationally and globally. According to the latest EduRank results: - Broadcast Journalism: No. 1 in Malaysia, No. 10 in Asia - Media Studies: No. 2 in Malaysia, No. 30 in Asia - Radio and Television Broadcasting: No. 4 in Malaysia, No. 73 in Asia - Communication and Public Relations: No. 5 in Malaysia, No. 16 in Asia - Journalism and Digital Media: No. 6 in Malaysia, No. 59 in Asia EduRank is an independent global university ranking system that assesses over 14,000 institutions across 183 countries. It evaluates universities based on three main indicators: academic performance, non-academic prominence, and alumni achievements. USM vice-chancellor Professor Datuk Seri Ir Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed expressed pride in the achievement, attributing it to the dedication of the university's academic and administrative staff, students, alumni, and strategic industry partners. "This recognition highlights that USM is not only producing world-class scientists and researchers but also shaping future leaders in communication and media," he said. School of Communication dean Associate Professor Dr Bahiyah Omar said the success was the result of sustained commitment, teamwork and strategic collaboration. "This recognition will serve as a catalyst to further strengthen our academic programmes and expand research networks and global partnerships," she said. Journalism graduate Nur Alwani Zafirah Khairul, who completed her studies in 2021 and now works as an executive journalist at Kosmo!, also shared her pride in USM's achievement. "USM and the School of Communication instilled in me the skills and professional values I carry today. It provided the foundation for my career in journalism," she said.
New Straits Times
16-07-2025
- General
- New Straits Times
Penang plots climate of change with action plan
GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Island Climate Action Plan 2030 was handed over to the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) today. The plan focuses on climate mitigation and adaptation measures. This plan provides a framework for the council to implement climate mitigation and adaptation actions. It aims to transform Penang into a low-carbon city by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The plan focuses on five themes: GREEN transportation and pedestrian prioritisation; PLANNING and managing green spaces; DEVELOPING resilient communities, and, DISASTER risk reduction and management. The document is supported by primary and secondary data, as well as international modelling tools such as the Asia-Pacific Integrated Model, which is recognised by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. This makes it a science-based and internationally credible reference. Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) vice-chancellor Professor Datuk Seri Ir Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed said the document is not merely a technical report. Rather, it the result of collaboration between researchers from USM, MBPP, and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, under the Urban Studies Chair, School of Social Sciences. "This collaboration represents our commitment to building a more sustainable, climate-resilient, and livable future for Penang. "As Malaysia's APEX university, USM plays a role not only in producing knowledge and technology but also in leading sustainable development initiatives that are evidence- and science-based. "Therefore, the Science to Action approach used in the development of this Climate Action Plan aligns with national aspirations and global agendas such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 2030) and the Paris Agreement. He said this at the handover ceremony. Mayor Datuk Rajendran P. Anthony, who received the doucment, said the council was more than just a city management entity. He said it was an institution that supported holistic, balanced and livable development. "The plan is not just a policy document but a manifestation of a shared commitment to make Penang a carbon-free state by 2050. "It outlines steps to address climate change challenges in a more systematic and holistic way. "MBPP's role in climate action in Penang is critical. "In the context of sustainable urban development, resource management, spatial planning and policy enforcement are key elements. "With the launch of this plan, the council's role in sustainable urban development will be boosted.
