The International Engineering and Technological University (METU) welcomed a visiting professor from Malaysia — Assoc. Prof. Ir. Dr. Mohd Najib Mohd Hussain, representing Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), one of METU’s strategic international partners.

Universiti Teknologi MARA is one of Malaysia’s leading public universities. It is ranked 549th worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2027 and 116th in Asia in the QS Asia University Rankings 2026.

The professor’s visit is being held as part of efforts to strengthen the strategic partnership between METU and UiTM, expand academic and scientific cooperation, exchange international experience, and engage leading international experts in the educational process.

The first day of the professor’s lecture series took place on September 3. Prior to the lecture, Karlygash Nurlanovna Shokhayeva, Director of the Department of International Cooperation at METU, addressed the audience. She introduced the visiting professor, highlighted his academic and professional background, international experience and achievements, and emphasized the importance of further developing cooperation between METU and Universiti Teknologi MARA.

The first lecture, entitled “Empowering the Grid: PV-BESS Integration Design & VPP Optimization,” focused on current trends in the energy sector, the integration of renewable energy sources, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), smart grids, AI/ML technologies, the Virtual Power Plant (VPP) concept, and practical case studies implemented at UiTM.

The lecture generated great interest among the students. They listened attentively, actively participated in the discussion, and enthusiastically asked the professor questions about modern energy storage technologies, solar energy, intelligent energy systems, and the future development of the energy sector. The lively discussion provided students with an opportunity to receive insights directly from an international expert and learn about practical experience in implementing energy projects in Malaysia.

Dr. Mohd Najib Mohd Hussain is an expert in electrical power engineering, power electronics, renewable energy, solar PV systems, and Battery Energy Storage Systems. He holds a PhD in Electrical Engineering, is a registered Professional Engineer with the Board of Engineers Malaysia, and is a member of the Institution of Engineers Malaysia.

Professor Mohd Najib has extensive experience in research and applied projects. In particular, he participated in a major joint project with Petronas Research Sdn Bhd focused on developing a cloud-based energy management system using artificial intelligence for a Virtual Power Plant. He has also been appointed a Battery Ambassador of The Faraday Institution, United Kingdom, reflecting international recognition of his professional expertise.

During his visit to METU, the professor will deliver a series of lectures for students and faculty members covering PV-BESS technologies, intelligent energy management, Virtual Power Plants, artificial intelligence in energy systems, and future trends in the energy transition.

The visit of the invited professor represents another important step in strengthening the strategic partnership between METU and Universiti Teknologi MARA and expanding opportunities for international academic and scientific cooperation.