Talent

Work-Based Learning in Action: How UTAR Aligns Education with Industry Needs

President, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR)

1. In your view, why is it important for universities to collaborate with multinational
companies (MNCs) in Greater KL?

Universities are vital in cultivating the talent pool, while multinational corporations (MNCs) drive innovation, technology transfer, and global business practices. In Greater Kuala Lumpur, robust University–MNC collaboration ensures that academic curricula remain aligned with current and future industry needs, thereby enhancing graduate employability and fostering a knowledge-based economy. These partnerships also provide students with valuable exposure to global standards, cross-cultural work environments, and advanced technologies. strong.

2. How do partnerships with MNCs enhance the employability and industry readiness

of your graduates?

Partnerships with MNCs give students opportunities to engage in real-world problem solving through internships, industry projects, and mentorship programmes. These experiences not only sharpen technical expertise but also instill professional work habits and foster cross-disciplinary skills such as critical thinking, communication, and adaptability. These partnerships help MNCs access local talent, adapt their operations to market needs, and contribute to Malaysia's economic growth.

3. Can you share an example where collaboration with industry has directly benefited
your students or academic programmes?

UTAR offers four Work-based Learning (2U1i) programmes, where students spend the first two years on campus, followed by one year attached to a company. These programmes include the Bachelor of Technology (Hons) in Electronic Systems, Bachelor of Technology (Hons) in Industrial Management, Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons) in Industrial Intelligent Systems, and Bachelor of Software Engineering (Hons). This collaboration model enables academia and industry to co-design and integrate syllabi that align with industry needs, enhance teaching materials, and jointly supervise and guide students for seamless integration into the workplace. It allows students to gain real-world industry experience, apply academic knowledge in practical settings, and build professional networks before graduation. Many participants have secured job offers from their host companies, while feedback from industry partners continues to shape and refine our curriculum to better meet market demands.

4. What more can be done to strengthen the relationship between academia and MNCs in Malaysia’s evolving talent landscape?

Building stronger ties between academia and multinational corporations (MNCs) in Malaysia’s dynamic talent ecosystem requires multi-layered strategies. UTAR outlines the key industry-academia collaboration initiatives, grouped into four strategic pillars: Research, Development & Consultancy; Talent Development; Human Capital Development; and Co-curriculum Development.

Research & Development and Consultancy – Joint projects with industry including research, patent filing, funding, laboratory sharing, commercialisation, consultancy, and sponsored professorial chairs.
Talent Development – Opportunities for students through internships, final year and capstone projects, industrial visits, guest lectures, competitions, sponsorships, entrepreneurship support, and mentorship.
Human Capital Development – Postgraduate studies, micro-credentials, staff training, joint certification, workshops, seminars, and industrial attachments for UTAR academic staff.
Curriculum Development – Incorporating industry insights via flexi scheme lecturers, advisor panels, and work-based learning programmes such as the 2U1i model.

5. How is your graduate centre preparing students to adapt to the future of work, especially in the context of rapid technological change and global industry shifts?

The UTAR Department of Alumni Relations and Placement prepares students for the future of work through a blend of academic rigour, industry engagement, and continuous skills development. Students are encouraged to participate in specialised training, workshops, talks, and seminars on emerging technologies, digital tools, and global trends. We also facilitate career talks, industry-led sessions, collaborative research, and networking opportunities to expose them to real-world challenges and solutions. These initiatives ensure that our graduates are not only technically proficient, but also adaptable, innovative, and globally competitive in a rapidly evolving job market.

Besides, the UTAR Department of Soft Skills Competency (DSSC) complements this by offering a comprehensive range of programmes designed to strengthen students’ soft skills and life skills, enhancing their competitiveness and enabling them to excel in both career and personal life. The curriculum covers ten key components: Communication and Language Skills, Cognitive Adaptability and Innovative Skills, Complex Problem-Solving and Decision-Making, Critical and Analytical Thinking, Emotional Intelligence, Cultural Intelligence and Collaborative Skills, Moral and Professional Ethics, Leadership Skills, Growth Mindset and Lifelong Learning, and Entrepreneurship Skills and Digital Literacy and Technological Skills.