FMM and UTAR Strengthen Industry–Academia Collaboration for Malaysia's Manufacturing Future

The Federation of Malaysian Manufacturing (FMM) was pleased to welcome a delegation from Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), led by Ir. Prof. Dato' Dr. Ewe Hong Tat, President of UTAR, for a courtesy visit to Wisma FMM on 24 July 2026.

The delegation was received by FMM President Mr Jacob Lee Chor Kok, President Emeritus YBhg. Tan Sri Dato' (Dr) Soh Thian Lai, FMM Deputy President Dato' Andrew Goh, FMM Vice Presidents and senior management.

During the visit, both parties discussed the way forward in strengthening industry–academia collaboration to support the transformation of Malaysia's manufacturing sector. FMM shared its four strategic pillars, highlighting opportunities for collaboration in joint research and policy advocacy on issues affecting manufacturers, the adoption of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, smart manufacturing, automation, robotics and cybersecurity, market expansion and internationalisation, as well as the development of industry-ready talent and future leaders.

UTAR presented a comprehensive collaboration framework encompassing research and innovation, human capital development, talent and entrepreneurship, and curriculum enhancement. Proposed initiatives include joint research, laboratories and innovation projects, consultancy and commercialisation, postgraduate and professional training programmes, micro-credentials, industry attachments, internships, graduate recruitment, guest lectures, entrepreneurship initiatives, as well as industry participation in curriculum development through advisory panels, work-based learning and flexible teaching arrangements to better prepare graduates for the evolving needs of industry.

Looking ahead, FMM and UTAR agreed to explore strategic collaborations in joint research and innovation, including the establishment of research laboratories and centres to support SME adoption of smart manufacturing and emerging technologies. Both parties also discussed collaborating on industry lecture series, entrepreneurship initiatives, FMM RDI Conference 2027, and postgraduate programmes to strengthen industry–academia linkages and develop future-ready manufacturing talent.

The visit also marked the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between FMM and UTAR, formalising a strategic partnership to foster closer industry–academia collaboration through research, innovation, talent development and knowledge exchange.

Together, FMM and UTAR look forward to translating this partnership into meaningful initiatives that will strengthen industry capabilities, nurture future-ready talent, and enhance the competitiveness and resilience of Malaysia's manufacturing sector.

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