Southern University College (SUC) is proud to announce that President, Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr Chuah Joon Huang has been awarded the Best CEO of the Year Award 2025 in Education at the Top Asia Corporate Ball 2025 which was held on 27th November 2025. The award was presented by HRH Paduka Puteri Tunku Mariamz binti Al-Marhum Sultan Iskandar, a member of the Johor royal family, highlighting the event’s prestige and the recognition of Professor Chuah’s contributions to education and community development.
The awards ceremony brought together over 500 leaders across Asia including CEOs, cultural icons, and industry pioneers, recognizing transformative contributions in education, innovation, and leadership.
The recognition acknowledges Professor Chuah’s visionary leadership in advancing SUC’s academic excellence, institutional innovation, and regional engagement. Under his leadership, SUC has strengthened its commitment to STEM and artificial intelligence related initiative through strategic partnerships, regional and international engagement, and industry collaboration. These include supporting STEM outreach programmes that promote innovation and practical skills among students, participation in regional dialogue on responsible artificial intelligence, and the establishment of initiatives that integrate AI education, research, and industry expertise. Beyond the institution, his work has strategic relevance for Johor particularly in developing skilled human capital to support high-value sectors and investment initiatives.
Professor Chuah has actively engaged with Johor Talent Development Council (JTDC) and other industry stakeholders to bridge gaps between academia and industry. His participation in prior JTDC meetings focused on aligning engineering and technical programmes with workforce needs addressing critical talent shortages in the state. These initiatives support Johor’s broader economic ambitions including Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS‑SEZ) which seeks to attract investment and create highly skilled employment opportunities.
Through SUC’s programmes and collaborations, graduates are equipped with the skills and professional readiness to meet industry demand, enhancing Johor’s competitiveness as an economic hub. Professor Chuah’s leadership exemplifies how higher education can contribute directly to regional economic development, ensuring that Johor remains an attractive destination for investment while fostering sustainable growth.
SUC continues to prioritize excellence, innovation, and collaboration, reinforcing its role in preparing graduates for the evolving workforce while supporting Johor’s economic transformation.
