KYOTO, Oct 5: Kuwaiti engineer Meshal Al-Otaibi was celebrated Sunday at the annual Science and Technology in Society (STS) Forum in Kyoto, Japan, for his exceptional leadership skills and promising contributions to sustainable technological innovation. The event, attended by Japanese Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, gathered global leaders and youth visionaries to explore the future of science and technology.

Al-Otaibi expressed pride in representing Kuwait at this prominent international platform, highlighting the forum’s alignment with Kuwait’s long-term strategic plan, Vision 2035, aimed at fostering a culture of innovation and sustainable economic growth. Presenting his research focused on enhancing energy efficiency, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and curbing carbon emissions, he emphasized the forum’s role as a critical venue for dialogue among decision-makers and emerging leaders shaping the technological landscape.

The Kuwaiti engineer, already distinguished by several international awards—including first place in architectural engineering among 500 researchers from 54 countries at a Paris conference, and the Best Scientific Research Award at the North American Conference in Washington—described this latest recognition as a reflection of Kuwait’s ambitions for sustainable development.

This year’s STS Forum, held under the theme “Enhancing the Light of Technology and Controlling its Shadows,” convenes thought leaders from science, industry, and government to discuss how technological advancements can be harnessed for humanity’s benefit and sustainable progress. Al-Otaibi underscored the capacity of Kuwaiti youth to contribute meaningfully to global innovation through science and research, calling his honor “both a personal and national achievement” aligned with Kuwait Vision 2035’s goals for a sustainable future.

Founded in 2004 by former Japanese Minister Koji Omi, the STS Forum remains one of the world’s leading international gatherings dedicated to fostering collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and the private sector on the societal impacts of technology. The event runs through October 7, drawing global participants to Kyoto for three days of high-level discussions.