News Highlights

UUM KUKUHKAN JALINAN AKADEMIK SERANTAU BERSAMA PSU THAILAND

2025-04-28T18:42:06+08:00

Program SEFB 14 Days International Summer School 2025 menjadi platform kepada �鶹ֱ�� (UUM), melalui Pusat Pengajian Ekonomi, Kewangan dan Perbankan (SEFB), untuk memperkukuh jalinan kerjasama akademik serantau bersama Prince of Songkhla University (PSU), Thailand.

Program tersebut telah dirasmikan oleh Penolong Naib Canselor UUM College of Business (UUM COB), Prof. Dr. Ram Al Jaffri Saad, dalam satu majlis yang berlangsung di Dewan Seminar B, Kompleks Konvensyen.

Turut hadir ialah delegasi dari PSU yang diketuai oleh Dekan Fakulti Perdagangan dan Pengurusan, PSU Kampus Trang, Prof. Madya Dr. Parichart Maneemai, dan Timbalan Dekan (Akademik dan Antarabangsa) SEFB, Dr. Diara Md Jadi.

Menurut Dr. Ram, penganjuran program ini melambangkan usaha berterusan universiti dalam memperkukuh kecemerlangan akademik serta memperluas jaringan kerjasama dengan industri dan institusi antarabangsa.

“Saya berasa bangga menyambut kehadiran rakan strategik serta tetamu dari dalam dan luar negara.

“Saya yakin program ini merupakan permulaan kepada lebih banyak inisiatif bermakna yang bakal digerakkan oleh SEFB,” katanya ketika berucap pada majlis pembukaan program tersebut.

Beliau berkata, program ini juga memberi penekanan kepada penggunaan bahasa Inggeris dan ilmu pengurusan sebagai teras dalam pembangunan akademik dan profesional pelajar.

Sementara itu, Dr. Parichart menyatakan bahawa penglibatan PSU dalam program ini mencerminkan komitmen institusi tersebut terhadap pengukuhan kerjasama serantau dalam bidang pendidikan tinggi.

“Saya percaya bahawa melalui persefahaman dan perkongsian ilmu, kita mampu melahirkan pemimpin masa depan yang berfikiran global serta berpijak di bumi nyata.

“Saya amat berbesar hati dapat hadir ke program ini dan berharap kerjasama antara kedua-dua institusi dapat diteruskan dengan lebih erat pada masa akan datang,” katanya.

Majlis turut diserikan dengan sesi pertukaran cenderamata antara UUM dan PSU sebagai simbol komitmen bersama dalam memperkukuh hubungan akademik dan penyelidikan antara kedua-dua institusi.

Selain itu, turut diadakan persembahan kebudayaan oleh Kelab Bidasari dan tayangan video recap tentang perjalanan program terdahulu.

AUN-QA REASSESSMENT MARKS NEW MILESTONE IN UUM’S ACADEMIC JOURNEY

2025-04-28T18:35:32+08:00

The reassessment conducted by the ASEAN University Network – Quality Assurance (AUN-QA) marks another significant milestone for �鶹ֱ�� in its ongoing commitment to deliver high-quality academic programmes to students.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni) Prof. Dr Ahmad Martadha Mohamed expressed UUM’s appreciation for the professionalism and unwavering commitment demonstrated by the assessors throughout the entire reassessment process.

“We are truly honoured by the constructive feedback and recommendations shared by the assessors. Their observations will serve as an invaluable compass guiding our continuous growth and pursuit of academic excellence for the benefit of our students,” he said.

He further said that this initiative is a crucial component of UUM’s mission to enhance the quality, relevance and international standing of its academic programmes.

He explained that, the Bachelor of International Affairs with Honours programme, under the School of International Studies (SOIS) has significantly benefitted from this engagement.

“This success could not have been realised without the tireless efforts across various levels. At the programme level, we appreciate the meticulous preparation of the Self-Assessment Report and the smooth coordination throughout the process.

“At the university level, the Quality and Accreditation Management Centre (PPQA) played a vital role in ensuring seamless collaboration with the AUN-QA Secretariat and facilitating an efficient and effective assessment process,” he added.

Meanwhile, the chief assessor, Assoc. Prof. Dr Ngo Van Thuyen from Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education emphasised the importance of such assessments in enhancing the quality of academic programmes for the benefit of the students and future generations.

“UUM has taken firm steps made thorough preparations for the AUN-QA programme assessment. I deeply appreciate the dedication and hard work invested in preparing the programme for this evaluation.

“Academic excellence and commitment to continuous improvement is a journey without end and I am grateful that we are able to undertake it together to elevate this institution to greater heights.

“I understand that considerable effort has been invested to facilitate our assessment. Thus, I would like to extend my highest appreciation to the university’s top management and university’s denizens for their efforts in making this achievement possible,” he said.

The time and energy devoted to this assessment have played a critical role in enhancing UUM’s capacity to deliver high-quality education to both students and the broader community.

2025 UUM Vice-Chancellor’s Cup Tournament: Anticipating the Discovery of New Sporting Talent and Promoting Holistic Development

2025-04-23T18:49:38+08:00

UUM ONLINE: The Vice-Chancellor of �鶹ֱ�� (UUM), Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan, expressed his hope that the 2025 Vice-Chancellor's Cup Tournament would serve as a platform to discover new sporting talents among UUM students.

Prof. Dato’ Dr. Mohd Foad Sakdan said the tournament not only aims to uncover new athletic talent but also to cultivate a stronger, more vibrant sports culture among students.

According to him, the tournament serves as an ideal platform to discover new sporting talents and to further energise the sports culture on this campus.

He further added that beyond competition, sports also play a vital role in nurturing noble values such as teamwork, resilience, discipline, and integrity among students.

“The UUM Vice Chancellor’s Cup Tournament, now entering its third edition since its introduction in 2023, represents more than a mere logo unveiling but a symbol of a prestige and excellence in sports tournament.

“The organisation of this tournament aligns with UUM’s aspiration to produce well-rounded graduates who excel academically while staying active, healthy, resilient through their involvement in co-curricular and sports activities,” he said at the Pre-Launch Ceremony of the 2025 UUM Vice-Chancellor’s Cup Tournament and Logo at the Sports Centre’s Meeting Room, yesterday.

The tournament, scheduled to take place from 4 to 31 May, will feature three main team sports- football, netball, both men’s and women’s volleyball, with a total of 896 athletes are expected to participate.

Dr Mohd Foad expressed hopes that the event would provide students with an opportunity to develop soft skills and foster a stronger sense of community and belonging among the campus populace.

He also took a moment to highlight the success of UUM’s contingent at SUKIPT 2024, where the university came in at the 10th place out of 71 contingents, demonstrating the impressive potential of UUM denizens in sports.

This year, the champion is set to receive a cash prize of RM1,000 along with a trophy and medal, followed by RM500 and a medal for second place, RM300 and a medal for third place, and RM200 and a medal for fourth place.

Also present at the event were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni), Prof. Dr Ahmad Martadha Mohamed; Director of the Sports Centre, Dr. Nasiruddin Haron and senior university officials.

UUM Maintains Self-Accreditation, Reaffirms Academic Standards

2025-04-22T18:53:48+08:00

UUM ONLINE: �鶹ֱ�� (UUM) has once again reaffirmed its academic excellence by successfully maintaining its Self-Accreditation status, as announced by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) in an official letter dated 14 April 2025.

This achievement follows the Self-Accreditation Status Review Audit, which took place from 24 to 25 February 2025.

The Self-Accreditation status attained since 2017 stands as recognition of UUM’s capability in upholding a strong internal quality assurance system, as well as its academic excellence and high standards of governance.

Maintaining this status showcases MQA’S ongoing confidence in UUM, enabling the university to autonomously accredit its academic programmes in line with national standards and guidelines.

UUM Vice-Chancelor, Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan described this achievement as a testament to the collective commitment of the UUM denizens in strengthening a culture of quality and academic excellence.

He also expressed his heartfelt appreciation and congratulations to everyone involved in this endeavour, particularly MQA.

Meanwhile, the Director of Self-Accreditation Centre, Assoc. Prof. Dr Zulkiflee Daud, who coordinated the efforts and compliance required for this recognition expressed a sense of pride in the achievement.

“As the centre responsible for upholding its self-accreditation status, this is a meaningful accomplishment,” he said.

“We remain committed to supporting the university in upholding this standard of excellence and the trust that has been placed in us,” he said.

UUM is committed to the ongoing improvement of its quality assurance systems, ensuring that its academic programmes are not only relevant, impactful but also aligned with both national needs and global market demands.

With the continued recognition of its self-accreditation status, UUM solidifies its position as a premier and competitive higher learning institution, aligning with the aspirations of the nation’s higher education agenda.

UUM Vice-Chancellor Encourages UUM Denizens to Strengthen Bonds

2025-04-22T18:47:08+08:00

UUM ONLINE: Over 5,000 members of the �鶹ֱ�� (UUM) campus community gathered to celebrate the Majlis Silaturahim Aidilfitri 1446H/2025M, marking the joyous occasion of Eidul-Fitr after the fasting month of Ramadan.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan remarked that Eidul-Fitr extends beyond mere celebration, it symbolises the triumph of faith and spirit after a month of spiritual discipline during Ramadhan.

According to him, the occasion serves as a moment where patience, reflection, forgiveness and gratitude converge.

In the spirit of Eidul-fitr, he urged everyone to come together, work hand in hand and strengthen their commitment to enhance UUM’s reputation on the international stage.

“The spirit of camaraderie serves as the cornerstone of organisational strength. Without mutual love and trust, achieving lasting success would be difficult.

“This is demonstrated by UUM’s remarkable achievement in higher education, with the university recording an impressive 96 percent Graduate Marketability (GM) rate in 2024, according to the latest official data released by the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE),” he said at the Perdana Square.

Meanwhile, President of the UUM Student Representative Council, Mr. Mohamad Amar Aidid Mohd Zain said that Eidul-Fitr extends beyond a mere traditional celebration. It embodies unity, deep affection and strong bonds of goodwill among us, regardless of racial or religious background.

He expressed hope that connections forged during the event would endure and further strengthen interpersonal relationships.

He also wished for UUM to remain a second home filled with compassion and harmony for all.

At the same juncture, he also invited the UUM denizens to offer du’a and recite Al-Fatihah for the late Ms. Manarina Hasya Muhamad Karim, who tragically lost her life in a road accident last Saturday morning.

The event continued with Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan visiting each booth, all of which showcased a variety of delicious offerings. At the close of the event, awards were presented to the top ten booths, including UUMIT, HEA/CAEPS and Marketing, CeTMA, Bursar Department, Security Department, Sultanah Bahiyah Library, SCIMPA, UTLC, RMC and JSM.

Also in attendance were the Deputy Vice-Chancellors; the Registrar, Mr. Ahmad Rasidi Abdullah; and Programme Director, Mr. Amir Fakhri Abdullah.

TEACHING MOBILITY STRENGTHENS GLOBAL COLLABORATION BETWEEN UUM AND MONTPELLIER BUSINESS SCHOOL (MBS), FRANCE

2025-04-10T19:14:49+08:00

FRANCE, 10 April 2025: Montpellier Business School (MBS) in France hosted its International Week from 24 to 28 March 2025. The event brought together 13 lecturers from partner universities across the world, including India, Malaysia, Peru, Mexico, Sweden, Ireland, the UK, Italy, and Poland.

Representing �鶹ֱ�� (UUM), Dr. Nazahah Abd Rahim from the Othman Yeop Abdullah Graduate School of Business (OYAGSB) had the honour of participating in this dynamic international event. The program was designed to offer MBS students the opportunity to learn from global educators and engage with diverse academic perspectives.

Throughout the week, Dr. Nazahah conducted a 15-hour course titled “Social & Environmental Transition: Environmental Innovation, CSR, and Circular Economy”. This course introduced students to key sustainability concepts, including green innovation, the evolution of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and the principles of the circular economy. Her sessions were highly interactive, incorporating group activities and discussions to promote learning. Dr. Nazahah also shared valuable insights from Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia, offering students a broader understanding of global environmental challenges.

In addition to the academic component, MBS organized a series of cultural activities and guided city tours for the visiting lecturers. These activities allowed participants to explore the beautiful city of Montpellier, immerse themselves in its rich culture, and build friendships and professional connections with fellow scholars from around the world.

International Week serves as powerful platform for faculty exchange and co-teaching. It allows lecturers to share innovative teaching methods, learn from peers, and engage with students from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds. Furthermore, the program fosters opportunities for collaborative research, co-authored publications, and the exchange of regional expertise, hence contributing to both professional growth and academic innovation.

This teaching mobility program is a reflection of the deepening partnership between UUM and MBS. The relationship began through joint participation in global education networks and conferences such as AACSB and EFMD. These events provided a foundation for both institutions to connect and identify shared goals in business and management education.

Over time, this relationship has evolved into a formal partnership, based on mutual values such as global learning, innovation, and responsible leadership. A key area of collaboration is student mobility, with UUM set to welcome several MBS students in the upcoming academic year, demonstrating an encouraging sign of trust and confidence underpinning this partnership.

The UUM–MBS partnership exemplifies a strong commitment to internationalization, experiential learning, and high-quality business education. With great potential for further collaboration, especially in research, teaching, and student exchange, this partnership continues to benefit students, academic staff, and the broader strategic goals of both universities.

MBS hosts two International Weeks annually, in March and November. UUM’s Centre for International Affairs and Cooperation (CIAC) encourages all UUM lecturers to participate in the Teaching Mobility Program at MBS. Engaging in this initiative offers a meaningful academic and cultural experience, while also strengthening the collaborative ties between UUM and MBS.

UUM Vice-Chancellor Visits Students Affected by Putra Heights Gas Explosion

2025-04-06T19:19:44+08:00

UUM ONLINE: The Vice-Chancellor of �鶹ֱ�� (UUM), Prof. Dato’ Dr. Foad Sakdan, visited UUM students who were affected by the gas explosion that occurred in Putra Heights last Tuesday. These students were evacuated for safety reasons and are currently sheltered at the Temporary Evacuation Centre (PPS).

During his visit, Prof. Dr. Foad also inspected the work of UUM volunteers, coordinated by MASKUM JPT, who have been actively supporting recovery efforts following the explosion. The gas pipeline incident caused a fire and significant property damage in the area.

The explosion forced the evacuation of local residents, including several UUM students, to the PPS for their safety.

In response, UUM, through the Centre for Student Excellence and Leadership (SELECT) and the Student Affairs Department (JHEP), has extended a range of immediate assistance to the affected students. This support includes disaster relief, food boxes, fruit baskets, and flexibility in the registration deadline for the new semester.

Additionally, the affected students received cash donations, which were distributed to those directly impacted by the incident.

Accompanying the Vice-Chancellor during the visit were Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni), Prof. Dr. Ahmad Martadha Mohamed, along with officers from SELECT and representatives from the UUM Student Representative Council. Together, they offered emotional and practical support to the students at the PPS.

14 UUM STAFF RECEIVE PROMOTION LETTERS

2025-04-06T18:18:28+08:00

UUM ONLINE: A total of 14 staff members from �鶹ֱ�� (UUM), comprising both academic and administrative staff, have received promotion letters.

The letters were presented by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan, during a ceremony held at the Vice-Chancellor’s Meeting Room, recently.

Of the total, seven recipients were academic staff consisting of Language Instructors promoted to grades DG13 and DG12; four administrative officers were promoted to grade N13; one accountant to grade WA13; one librarian to grade S13; and one engineer to grade J12.

Meanwhile, English Language Coordinator, Mdm. Lieyana Teo Mohd Zulkifli Teo, expressed her gratitude upon receiving the promotion letter.

“This promotion is a recognition of my efforts and commitment thus far, as well as a significant trust placed in me to uphold the responsibilities that come with it.

“Moreover, it is a joyful gift for me and my entire family, coinciding with the upcoming Aidilfitri celebration, and at the same time, it is the best blessing during this month of Ramadan,” she said.

She also expressed her hope to continue providing excellent service and contributing to the success of UUM.

The promotion letter presentation ceremony is hoped to symbolise appreciation for the dedication and commitment of the staff, while also boosting motivation to serve with excellence in achieving the university’s success.

Also present at the ceremony were the Deputy Vice-Chancellors and the Registrar, Mr. Ahmad Rasidi Abdullah.

OYAGSB’s CSR initiative empowers students at SBJK Kuala Lumpur

2025-03-27T18:25:45+08:00

KUALA LUMPUR, 27 March 2025: Demonstrating its unwavering commitment to social responsibility, the Othman Yeop Abdullah Graduate School of Business (OYAGSB) has initiated a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program at Sekolah Bimbingan Jalinan Kasih (SBJK), Kuala Lumpur. This initiative focuses on supporting the education of homeless and underprivileged students through the refurbishment of classrooms and the provision of essential learning resources.

As part of this endeavor, OYAGSB staff and MBA students dedicated their time and expertise to renovate classrooms at SBJK, thus creating an improved learning environment. The newly renovated space, now designated as Inkubator Jalinan Kasih OYAGSB, is equipped with modern facilities designed to foster a more conducive and engaging atmosphere for students.

In addition to physical enhancements, OYAGSB conducted specialized training sessions led by its MBA students, focusing on personal development and career skills. These sessions provided valuable insights and guidance to empower students with knowledge that will support their academic and professional growth.

Further reinforcing its commitment, OYAGSB made a heartfelt contribution of essential school supplies including books, stationery, and other educational materials. This donation aims to alleviate financial constraints on students and their families, ensuring they have the necessary resources for their studies.

OYAGSB’s CSR initiative has been recognized as a significant step towards fostering a more inclusive and supportive educational ecosystem. By investing in education, the institution reaffirms its dedication to social impact, particularly for marginalized communities.

“We are pleased to be involved in this meaningful initiative. By investing in education and providing essential resources, we aim to support students in their academic journeys and contribute to a brighter future,” said Prof. Dr. Hassan Abu Bakar, Dean of OYAGSB.

SBJK expressed its gratitude for OYAGSB’s support, emphasizing that this initiative serves as a model for future collaborations between the business and education sectors in uplifting disadvantaged communities.

As part of its long-term commitment to social responsibility, OYAGSB plans to sustain its support for SBJK and similar initiatives, in alignment with its mission to “nurture leaders who make a difference in a responsible and sustainable manner.”

This CSR initiative represents another milestone in OYAGSB’s dedication to contributing to a society where education serves as a vehicle for empowerment and transformation.

UUM RECORDS SIGNIFICANT RISE IN ZAKAT FITRAH COLLECTION

2025-03-19T23:28:35+08:00

UUM ONLINE: �鶹ֱ�� (UUM) recorded an increase in zakat fitrah collections in 2024, amounting to RM34,394.50 compared to RM25,410 in 2023.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan, stated that this collection represents a 26.12 percent increase for this year.

According to him, the upward trend in collections is attributed to the efforts carried out by the Amil (zakat collectors) appointed by the Kedah State Zakat Board (LZNK) through the Kubang Pasu District Zakat Centre.

He said that UUM’s Islamic Centre, in collaboration with the Kubang Pasu District Zakat Office, continuously works to ensure that the entire UUM community can fulfil their zakat fitrah obligation easily through online payment, which can be made from anywhere.

“A number of certified amil who have been appointed will be stationed at various locations around the campus. Hopefully, this initiative will further enhance the zakat fitrah collection performance of the UUM community.

“The launching ceremony itself is also one of the initiatives spearheaded by UUM’s Islamic Centre in collaboration with the Kedah State Zakat Board to facilitate UUM staff and students in fulfilling their respective responsibilities,” he said at the 1446H/2025 Zakat Fitrah Collection Launch Ceremony at Sultan Badlishah Mosque.

He added that the zakat fitrah collection helps those in need within the local community. This is the wisdom behind the ordinance of this religious duty—an effort to support the economic well-being of the ummah and the nation.

According to him, indirectly, it also serves as a means of purifying wealth, further expanding the blessings derived from an individual’s daily earnings.

In this regard, Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad called upon everyone to take the opportunity to gain the rewards and various blessings available during this sacred month.

At the event, he also personally paid his zakat fitrah through the Director of the Islamic Centre, Mr. Mohd Yusnaidi Md. Sabri.

Also present were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni), Prof. Dr Ahmad Martadha Mohamed; Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), Prof. Dr Russayani Ismail; members of the University Management Committee, and senior university officers.