In response to the growing demand for skilled talent in Malaysia’s rapidly advancing manufacturing sector, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and the Malaysian Technical Universities Network (MTUN) has announced a strategic partnership aimed at developing high-skilled talent through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
Speaking at the event, Datuk Sikh Shamsul highlighted the importance of such partnerships in ensuring Malaysia’s competitive edge in the global economy. “This collaboration exemplifies the synergy between MIDA and institutions of higher learning. By joining forces, we will cultivate a new generation of high- skilled professionals who are perfectly attuned to the evolving needs of Malaysia’s thriving industrial landscape We aim to create high-skill job opportunities and build a competitive workforce ready to drive economic transformation in line with the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 and the MADANI Economy Framework.”
Professor Dato’ Ts. Dr. Zaliman Sauli, Vice Chancellor of UniMAP, expressed, “At UNIMAP, we aim to create industry ready skilled graduates who can innovate and lead. Our collaboration with MIDA will enhance our programmes to meet the challenges of the modern E&E workforce.”
Professor Datuk Ts. Dr. Massila Binti Kamalrudin, Vice Chancellor of UTeM, commented, “Collaborating with MIDA to align education with industry needs is a great way to ensure that graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary for careers in advanced manufac turing and computing technologies. This kind of partnership can significantly enhance job readiness and drive innovation in the field.”
Meanwhile, Profesor Dato’ Ir. Ts. Dr. Ruzairi Abdul Rahim , Vice Chancellor UTHM, emphasised, “UTHM is committed to shaping future leaders in engineering and technology. Our collaboration with MIDA will empower our students with the essential skills to thrive in high-tech industries.”
“These partnerships highlight the importance of strong university-indus try relations in fostering a dynamic and agile educational ecosystem. This ceremony represents a major milestone in developing programmes that align directly with the skills required by sectors such as manufacturing, engineering and technology. MTUN serves as a crucial bridge between academia and industry, ensuring that our graduates are not only academically proficient but also technically skilled—qualities that are in high demand in today’s fast- paced industries,” said Professor Dato’ Ts. Dr. Yusserie Zainuddin, Vice Chancellor UMPSA.
The MoU outlines several key focus areas, including aligning labour market supply with industry demand, developing human capital through TVET talent development programmes, and strengthening collaboration between academic institutions and industries. The partnership will also facilitate the transfer of knowledge from industry to academia, particularly in talent development.
As part of the event, Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of MIDA, was conferred the title of Adjunct Professor under the CEO@Faculty programme, recognising his leadership and contribution to bridging industry and academia. The event also featured several MoU exchanges between MTUN and key industry players, underscoring the collaboration’s broad impact.
