Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to share the experience of Universiti Sains Malaysia in promoting the sustainable development agenda through its leadership role in the Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) Penang using an "inside-out approach". Design/methodology/approach: This paper describes the institutional structure, policies and programme within the campus, and activities carried out with the surrounding community to promote sustainable development. Findings: Being part of the RCE network provides various reciprocal benefits. One, it provides a greater opportunity and an impetus for the university to transform itself into an agent of sustainable development. Two, it serves as an excellent platform for the university-community partnership programme which brings the two closer together. Three, it improves the university's reputation and allows it to participate in regional and global discussions on sustainability and the sustainable development agenda. Practical implications: This paper provides an example of establishing and promoting education for sustainable development through university research, teaching and learning as well as community engagement. Originality/value: The format of the main discussion is offered as a potential model for adoption by others engaged in education for sustainability.