The International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) has made history as the first university in Malaysia to be shortlisted as finalist for two international sustainability awards.

The awards are the International Green Gown Awards in the World's Best Sustainable Institution category and the Benefitting Society Award via the LIGHT (Leadership, Intuitive, Giving, Humility, Tenacity) programme hosted by the Kulliyyah of Architecture and Environmental Design.

IIUM rector Tan Sri Prof Emeritus Dzulkifli Abdul Razak said this is a huge recognition for the university in its efforts to transform the institution for sustainability.

"The transformation targets to achieve three main objectives which are to turn IIUM into a sustainable and prosperous institution as well as to empower the surrounding community," he said in a statement yesterday.

The awards are endorsed by the United Nations (UN) Environment, International Association of Universities (IAU) and the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU).

IIUM is in the final list with 12 other universities including from Australia, Britain, Colombia, Mexico and Peru. On July 8, winners will be announced virtually, in conjunction with the United Nations High-Level Political Forum.

-- BERNAMA