News Highlights

UUM-UNITAR Seal MoU to Strengthen Academic Innovation and Research

2025-12-02T09:30:58+08:00

SINTOK, 2 December 2025: �鶹ֱ�� (UUM) dan UNITAR International University (UNITAR) today sealed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), opening a new chapter in academic collaboration, research development, and human capital enhancement between the two higher education institutions.

The MoU signing ceremony, held at Visitors’ Lounge, Sultan Sallehuddin Chancellery Building, UUM, was officiated by Prof. Dr Ahmad Martadha Mohamed, who is currently performing the duties of the Vice-Chancellor of UUM, together with Professor Emeritus Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Ir Dr Sahol Hamid, Vice-Chancellor of UNITAR.

rof. Dr Ahmad Martadha Mohamed expressed his appreciation for the successful signing of the MoU, describing it as a strategic step towards strengthening academic ties between UUM and UNITAR.

“This MoU serves as an important platform to strengthen, promote and expand collaboration based on equality and mutual benefit,” he said.

Through this agreement, both universities agreed to undertake various forms of collaboration, including student mobility, academic staff exchange, visiting scholar appointments, joint research, co-publications, joint supervision and exploration of franchised academic programme offerings.

“I hope this MoU will bring significant impact in advancing knowledge, developing human capital and contributing to civilisation growth at both national and international levels,” he said.

UNITAR Vice-Chancellor, Profesor Emeritus Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Ir Dr Sahol Hamid Abu Bakar, also emphasised UNITAR’s commitment to inclusive education.

“UNITAR has consistently championed accessible and inclusive education. Through this MoU, we look forwards to working closely with UUM to implement programmes and initiatives that support lifelong learning and nation’s human capital development,” he said.

He further stressed that this collaboration opens wider educational pathways for students at all stages of life, ensuring education remains relevant, flexible and impactful.

Also present were Prof. Dr Harlida Abdul Wahab, Assistant Vice-Chancellor of COLGIS and Dean of the School of Law (SoL) UUM; members of the University Management Committee; and senior officials from both universities.

UUM Strengthens Smart Campus Goals with Completion of DKG Upgrades

2025-11-18T08:04:19+08:00

SINTOK, 18 November 2025 – The upgrading project for the Cluster Lecture Halls (DKG) 1, 2 and 3—costing nearly RM22 million—was fully completed in January 2025.

A Handover Ceremony for the Infrastructure and Mechanical, Electrical, and Information Technology (ICT) System Upgrade Project was held today at DKG 1, officiated by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan, and the Director of the Kedah State Public Works Department (JKR), Ir. Mohd Fisal Ismail.

Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad explained that planning for the project began at UUM’s Infrastructure Development and Management Department (JPPI) in 2017. Approval from the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) was later granted under the 11th Malaysia Plan – Rolling Plan 4 in February 2019 with an approved ceiling cost of RM21.836 million.

According to him although approval had been secured earlier, implementation only began in 2021 due to delays caused by the global outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020.

The Vice-Chancellor highlighted that the project involved the upgrading of 29 lecture halls of varying capacities across DKG 1, 2 and 3. It serves as a pilot initiative supporting the University’s Strategic Plan to realise UUM Smart Campus 2030.

“The primary objective of this project is to provide a more conducive and comfortable learning environment equipped with the latest technological systems, including upgraded audiovisual (AV) and ICT facilities, as well as ‘hybrid classroom’ features to enhance teaching and learning at UUM.

“This initiative aligns with the government’s focus, as outlined by the Minister of Higher Education in the MoHE 2025 New Year Message, which emphasises Modern Infrastructure Development, Digital Technology Adoption, and Campus Wellbeing,” he said.

Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad also expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Public Works, JKR Malaysia—particularly JKR Kedah as the implementing agency—JPPI as UUM’s technical department, and the main contractor Tunjang Delima Sdn. Bhd. for their strong cooperation and unwavering commitment throughout the project.

Meanwhile, Ir. Mohd Fisal shared that the upgrading works introduced several innovations, notably the adoption of Student-Centred Learning (SCL) design principles. These enhancements not only encourage active student participation but also incorporate smart, interactive infrastructure and sustainable, energy-efficient features.

He outlined the main scope of the project, which included upgrading all three DKG complexes, demolishing and rebuilding internal structures, rewiring electrical, ELV, and ICT systems, installing a Lighting Control System (LCS), installing a new air-conditioning system, upgrading the fire prevention system, and repairing damaged building structures and waterproofing layers.

“Since construction began in October 2021, the project team—representing various technical disciplines—has worked together to overcome numerous challenges.

“Despite these hurdles, I am pleased to share that the project successfully achieved ‘six in one’: the Certificate of Practical Completion (CPC), the Statement of Final Accounts (SoFA), completion of As-Built Drawings, zero Loss Time Injury (LTI) cases, a Coffee Table Book documenting the project, and commendable customer satisfaction throughout implementation,” he said, expressing hope that the upgraded facilities would continue to benefit the entire UUM community.

The event also featured the handing over of project documents and certificates of appreciation, followed by a site visit around DKG 1.

Also present were Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Prof. Dr Ram Al Jaffri Saad; Senior Director of the Electrical Engineering Branch, JKR Malaysia, Dato’ Ir. Ismail Hashim; and senior officials from both UUM and JKR.

UUM jumps 114 places in QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2026

2025-11-18T08:01:10+08:00

SINTOK, 18 November 2025: �鶹ֱ�� (UUM) has recorded a significant achievement, rising to 631st position out of 2,001 universities worldwide in the QS World University Ranking: Sustainability 2026. This marks an impressive leap of 114 places from its previous ranking of 745.

The QS World University Ranking: Sustainability 2026 evaluates institutions across three main categories namely environmental impact, social impact, and governance.

In the Social Impact category, UUM climbed to 611th position in the world compared to 781st in the previous edition, while in the Environmental Impact category, UUM has made significant progress, rising to 703rd position with an increase of 266 places. These represents a substantial increase, further demonstrating the effectiveness of the university’s social initiatives in strengthening equality, inclusion, and the well-being of the campus community and society at large.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan said this achievement reflects the university’s steadfast commitment to advancing the global sustainability agenda. He noted that this success not only acknowledges UUM’s ongoing efforts but also underscores its responsibility to further promote sustainable development and instill the values of sustainability among both staff and students.

According to him, UUM is on a strong trajectory to strengthen its contribution to sustainable development through innovative research, sustainable-focused education, and active community engagement.

“The university is committed to ensuring that future generations receive a comprehensive and meaningful education in sustainability, empowering them to drive positive change,” he said.

The QS World University Ranking: Sustainability 2026 provides an important platform for universities around the world to measure their impact in addressing global challenges. This aligns with UUM’s commitment to maintaining relevance and competitiveness on the international stage.

This recognition reflects UUM’s commitment to integrating sustainability principles into the core of the university’s operations, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

788 GRADUATES OF SESSION NINE BRING THE UUM 38TH CONVOCATION CEREMONY TO A MEMORABLE CLOSE

2025-11-13T08:07:43+08:00

SINTOK, 13 November 2025 — The ninth session, which marked the final session of the �鶹ֱ�� (UUM) 38th Convocation Ceremony concluded on a high note as 788 graduates from the Professional and Continuing Education Centre (PACE) and the Executive Diploma in Business Management programme proudly received their academic scrolls.

In his address, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan extended his warmest congratulations to the graduates and expressed heartfelt appreciation to parents and families, whose unwavering support played a crucial role in the graduates’ academic journey.

The graduates celebrated this afternoon represent a diverse range of disciplines, including the Bachelor of Communication, Bachelor of Creative Industry Management, Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Business Management, Bachelor of Islamic Finance and Banking, Bachelor of Public Management, Bachelor of Tourism Management, Bachelor of Hospitality Management, and the Executive Diploma in Business Management.

Speaking on the theme “Knowledge, Integrity, Innovation: The Core of Graduate Excellence”, Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan highlighted that these three values form the cornerstone of UUM’s educational philosophy.

He urged graduates to continue pursuing knowledge, uphold integrity in their careers, and embrace innovation as they navigate the challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR 4.0) and advance toward Society 5.0.

“UUM is proud to witness its graduates emerging as thinkers, problem solvers, and pioneers of new fields that contribute to society and industry,” he said.

“Let knowledge be your catalyst, and let innovation be the vehicle that drives meaningful change for the nation and the world.”

The ceremony also highlighted that lifelong learning remains essential in staying relevant, while integrity and trustworthiness form the foundation of true success. Graduates were also encouraged to further their studies at the master’s or doctoral level to strengthen their knowledge and broaden their professional horizons.

This year’s 38th Convocation Ceremony reflects UUM’s commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically outstanding but also ethical, resilient, and innovative, embodying the university’s motto — Knowledge, Virtue, Service.

Prof. Dr Haslinda and Dr Mohamad Fitri Honoured at the 16th National Academic Awards

2025-10-24T14:20:48+08:00

SUBANG JAYA, 24 October 2025: �鶹ֱ�� (UUM) marked another proud milestone as two of its academic staff received recognition at the 16th National Academic Awards (Anugerah Akademik Negara, AAN), the university’s first win since 2018.

The two recipients were Prof. Dr Haslinda Ibrahim from the School of Quantitative Sciences (SQS), who received the Teaching Award for Pure Science Cluster, and Ts. Dr Mohamad Fitri Mohamad Haris from the School of Creative Industry Management and Performing Arts (SCIMPA), who was honoured with the Arts and Creativity Award (Performing Arts Cluster).

Each recipient was awarded a certificate of appreciation and a cash prize of RM50,000.

Prof. Dr Haslinda Ibrahim expressed her appreciation, noting that the award acknowledges her innovative approach to applying mathematical reasoning to foster creativity and innovation in mathematics among students.

She also emphasised that UUM remains steadfast in its commitment to the field of pure sciences, despite being widely recognised as a management university.

“I urge my esteemed colleagues to embrace boldness, foster innovation, and maintain persistence in their pursuit of excellence within their respective disciplines,” she said.

Meanwhile, Ts. Dr Mohamad Fitri also expressed his appreciation for the recognition he received.

According to him, the evaluation of the award encompassed various aspects of research as well as the interplay between creativity and the field of education.

He has dedicated nearly 23 years to the nasyeed industry and has also engaged in academic pursuits for 12 years. The integration of these two fields has served as akey factor contributing to his success.

“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to UUM and SCIMPA for the invaluable support and guidance they have provided throughout my journey as an academician,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan, together with the university’s top management, joined in celebrating the achievements of both lecturers.

Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad said that the recognition reflects the exceptional quality of teaching and learning at UUM, which consistently garners acknowledgement at the national level.

He further encouraged other lecturers to view this achievement as a source of inspiration, urging them to continue striving for academic recognition.

The awards ceremony was officiated by the Minister of Higher Education, Dato’ Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir, who represented the Prime Minister, Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, at Dorsett Grand Hotel.

The National Academic Figure Award (Tokoh Akademik Negara) was awarded to Prof. Emeritus Datin Dr Siti Zuraina Abdul Majid, a distinguished scholar from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), who received a certificate and RM200,000 in cash.

The Teaching Award (Health Sciences Cluster) was presented to Dr Manraj Singh Cheema, while the Teaching Award (Applied Literature and Applied Social Sciences Cluster) was awarded to Dr Rahimah Jamaludin, both esteemed faculty members from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM).

The Journal Article Publication Award in the Science Category went to Assoc. Prof. Dr Gan Wee Chen from Xiamen University Malaysia, while the award for the Social Sciences and Humanity category was awarded to Assoc. Prof. Dr See Kok Fong from USM.

Meanwhile, Assoc. Prof. Dr Norhayati Mohd Noor was honoured with the Publication Award, and the Innovation and Product Commercialisation Award was preseented to Assoc. Prof. Dr Muhammad Firdaus Akbar Jalaludin Khan from USM.

UUM Honoured with Best Employer Award by EPF 2025

2025-10-23T14:23:32+08:00

SUNGAI PETANI, 22 October 2025: �鶹ֱ�� (UUM) has been honoured with the Best Employer Award (Category: Employers with 500 to 1000 Employees) by the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) for the Kedah/Perlis region, today.

This prestigious award was presented by the EPF Northern Region Manager, Mr. Jeffary Mohamed Isa, during the EPF Kedah/Perlis Best Employer Recognition Ceremony 2025, held at the Park Avenue Hotel, Sungai Petani.

The recognition was received by UUM Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan, who accepted the award on behalf of the entire university community as a symbol of collective dedication and commitment to upholding integrity and responsibility in every aspect of institutional governance.

Through this recognition, UUM reaffirms its continuous commitment to being a responsible and ethical employer by ensuring that every obligation to the EPF is fulfilled with integrity for the well-being of all university employees.

Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan expressed his deepest appreciation to the EPF for this meaningful recognition, which he described as a source of encouragement for the university to continue strengthening human resource governance and enhancing staff welfare.

UUM STUDENTS IMMERSE IN RURAL COMMUNITY LIFE THROUGH BAKTI MADANI CARNIVAL

2025-08-17T19:07:18+08:00

CHEMOR, 16 August 2025: �鶹ֱ�� (UUM) students are being given the opportunity to experience rural community life firsthand through the three-day Bakti Madani Carnival, which began yesterday in Kampung Ulu Chepor, Ipoh.

The opening ceremony was officiated by Dato’ Dr. Aminuddin Md. Hanafiah, Member of the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) Management Board, and attended by UUM Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan.

Dato’ Dr Aminuddin explained that the carnival engages the villagers selected as adoptive families for the students, enabling them to better understand the heartbeat of the local community.

“I hope the students will experience the challenges of daily life in the village and develop an appreciation of grassroots issues. This experience is crucial in shaping their character and identity. At the same time, I hope the host families will extend their best hospitality to the students placed with them,” he said in his speech.

He noted that Kampung Ulu Chepor was chosen as the venue due to its status as a traditional village under the Tambun Parliamentary constituency, part of which also falls under the administration of the Ipoh City Council. The village was seen as possessing the right characteristics to host a programme of this nature.

Meanwhile, Political Secretary to the Minister of Higher Education, Mr. Akmal Zharif Ahmad Kamal, highlighted that experiences from such programmes cannot be replicated in lecture halls.

“This programme allows students to interact directly with the community. It not only brings them closer to society but also provides a platform to appreciate the realities of life,” he said.

He also reminded students to view the carnival as a valuable platform to acquire knowledge, broaden their experiences, and make full use of the opportunities provided.

The ceremony also included the formal presentation of 25 adoptive families to participating UUM students, with each family receiving a contribution of RM500.

Also present were Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni), Prof. Dr Ahmad Martadha Mohamed; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Prof. Dr Ram Al Jafri Saad; Principal Assistant Director (Student Affairs Division), Ministry of Higher Education, Mr. Muhammad Nafi’ Rezani Tahrir; Chairman of the Village Development and Security Committee, Mr. Amir Ahmad Said; President of the UUM Student Representative Council, Mr. Mohamad Amar Aidid Mohd Zain; as well as senior university officials and representatives from related agencies.

BAKTI MADANI CARNIVAL IN KAMPUNG ULU CHEPOR: STRENGTHENING BONDS BETWEEN ACADEMIA AND COMMUNITY

2025-08-17T19:04:02+08:00

Dato’ Dr Aminuddin explained that the carnival engages the villagers selected as adoptive families for the students, enabling them to better understand the heartbeat of the local community.

Meanwhile, Political Secretary to the Minister of Higher Education, Mr. Akmal Zharif Ahmad Kamal, highlighted that experiences from such programmes cannot be replicated in lecture halls.

“This programme allows students to interact directly with the community. It not only brings them closer to society but also provides a platform to appreciate the realities of life,” he said.

He also reminded students to view the carnival as a valuable platform to acquire knowledge, broaden their experiences, and make full use of the opportunities provided.

The ceremony also included the formal presentation of 25 adoptive families to participating UUM students, with each family receiving a contribution of RM500.

UUM Alumni and Corporates Sponsor UUM Alumni Royal Banquet 2025

2025-08-13T19:09:48+08:00

PETALING JAYA, 13 August 2025: The �鶹ֱ�� (UUM) Alumni Royal Banquet 2025 saw UUM alumnus and the Mayor of Pasir Gudang City Council, Dato’ Mustaffa Kamal Dato’ Shamsudin, making the highest contribution of RM75,000. His sponsorship covered two Platinum tables, one Silver table, and a special performance by Dato’ Jamal Abdillah.

His Royal Highness (HRH) Al-Aminul Karim Sultan Sallehuddin Ibni Almarhum Sultan Badlishah, the Sultan of Kedah and Chancellor of UUM, graciously presented plaques and certificates of appreciation to Platinum and Gold sponsors in recognition of their contributions.

The UUM Alumni Royal Banquet 2025 held at Hotel One World last Saturday was primarily funded through table purchases, with proceeds channelled towards the development and maintenance of the RM5 million Alumni Learning and Training Centre (ALTRAC).

Among the corporate sponsors was Latimer Corporation Sdn. Bhd., represented by its Board Member, Tan Sri Denis Chandratheepam Latimer, an alumnus of the Bachelor of Accounting with Honours (1988) programme. The company made a contribution of RM20,000, with RM16,000 designated for the ALTRAC Fund.

Platinum sponsorships were also made by First Grade Resources Sdn. Bhd., represented by its Managing Director, Zulkifli Yusop (Bachelor of Economics with Honours, 1998), and by the Othman Yeop Abdullah Graduate School of Business (OYAGSB), represented by its Dean, Prof. Dr Hassan Abu Bakar (Bachelor of Economics with Honours, 1996).

As for the Platinum Individual category, notable alumni recognised were the Managing Director and Board Member of KDEB Waste Management Sdn. Bhd., Dato’ Ramli Mohd Tahir (Bachelor of Business Administration with Honours, 1996); Chief Human Resource and Sustainability Officer, AEON Co. (M) Bhd., Dr Kasuma Satria Mat Jadi (Bachelor of Business Administration with Honours, 1996) and Group Chief Officer, Inch Kenneth Kajang Rubber Public Limited Company, Mr. Hussain Ahmad Abdul Kader (Bachelor of Accounting with Honours, 1988).

For the Gold category, ASR Padu Sdn. Bhd., represented by its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Ayob Samad (Bachelor of Economics with Honours, 1996), contributed RM15,000, of which RM11,000 was allocated to the ALTRAC Fund.

The event also received a Silver sponsorship valued at RM20,000, along with eight Bronze sponsorships amounting RM40,000, reflecting the strong solidarity between UUM alumni and the university’s strategic partners in supporting institutional development.

UUM Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan, expressed his heartfelt appreciation to all sponsors for their unwavering support and commitment, which not only enlivened the banquet but also strengthened ALTRAC’s mission to broaden alumni networks and initiatives.

“This reflects the deep affection alumni have for their alma mater. Such support will serve as a catalyst for further development and transformation programmes at UUM in the future,” he said.

The UUM Alumni Royal Banquet 2025 was held with full ceremonial grandeur, brought together alumni from various generations, corporate leaders and distinguished guests, all united in a warm and collegial atmosphere to support the sustainability of the university.

Gracing the event with their presence were HRH Tengku Sarafudin Badlishah Ibni Al Aminul Karim Sultan Sallehuddin, the Raja Muda of Kedah and Pro-Chancellor of UUM; HRH Che Puan Muda Zaheeda Mohamad Ariff, the Raja Puan Muda of Kedah; HRH Tunku Shazuddin Ariff Ibni Al Aminul Karim Sultan Sallehuddin, the Tunku Mahkota of Kedah and Pro-Chancellor of UUM and HRH Che Puan Nur Julie Ariff, the Tunku Puan Mahkota of Kedah.

Also present were UUM Pro-Chancellor, Tan Sri (Dr) Tengku Mahaleel Tengku Ariff; Chairman of UUM Board of Directors, Tan Sri Dr Mohd Shukor Mahfar; Deputy Secretary-General (Policy), Ministry of Higher Education, Dato’ Dr Megat Sani Megat Ahmad Supian, along with UUM senior management and other distinguished dignitaries.

UUM to Establish Alumni Learning and Training Centre (ALTRAC) as Hub for Alumni-Student Engagement

2025-08-10T19:28:00+08:00

PETALING JAYA, 10 August 2025: The �鶹ֱ�� (UUM) Alumni Centre is set to establish the Alumni Learning and Training Centre (ALTRAC) as a platform for interaction between alumni and students of �鶹ֱ�� (UUM).

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan, announced that the training and learning centre, known as ALTRAC, will incur a total cost of RM 5 million, which will cover construction, furniture acquisition, and maintenance of the facility.

He explained that ALTRAC will not only serve as a hub for alumni-student engagement, but it will also open up opportunities for students and the wider community to participate in self-development and career-related programmes.

The Vice-Chancellor further revealed that the total number of UUM alumni has now reached 172,570 members, who serve not only as academic products of the University but also as strategic partners in enhancing teaching and learning.

He noted that alumni involvement in initiatives such as Alumni Back2Campus, CEO@Faculty, industry alumni partnerships and other collaborative programmes has enriched the learning experience of UUM students, making it more relevant, impactful, and aligned with industry needs.

Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad expressed his sincere appreciation to the sponsors who contributed to the success of the event. Platinum and Gold sponsors such as Latimer Corporation Sdn Bhd, First Grade Resources Sdn. Bhd., Othman Yeop Abdullah Graduate School of Business (OYAGSB), Dr Kasuma Satria Mat Jadi, Mr. Hussain Ahmad Abdul Kader, Dato’ Ramli Mohd Tahir, and ASR Padu Sdn. Bhd. Additionally, Silver and Bronze sponsorships collectively amounted to RM60,000, bringing in the total collection to RM260,000.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the alumni who have generously contributed their resources, knowledge and expertise for the benefit of future generations.

“This contribution reflects the deep affection alumni hold for their alma mater and represents a continuous charitable effort with lasting rewards,” he said at the UUM Alumni Royal Banquet yesterday.

In his address, the Vice-Chancellor provided insights into UUM’s history and successes, highlighting its ranking in the QS World University Rankings 2026, its position in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings for universities under 50 years old, and the impressive graduate employability rate of 96.6 percent.