The Faculty of Business and Management (FBM),Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Malaysia through iHALALMAS (iHalal Management and Science), a halal division of the faculty, was very much privileged to join hands with Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU), Philippines in developing the university’s agenda to become the halal champion in the Southern Region, focusing on halal knowledge, business and expert development.
The collaboration was strategically agreed during the delegates visit to UiTM on 13th December 2019. SKSU was represented by its President, Dr. Rolando F. Hechanova, accompanied by the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr Ernie Cerado. Others present were Dr. Elvie Diaz, Director of Tacurong Campus; Dr. Ruby Hechanova, Deputy Director, CAARRDEC; Dr. Mary Lynn Magbanua, Vice President for Research Development & Extension Services and Dr. Rodelyn Dalayap, Dean, College of Arts and Sciences.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International) of UiTM, Prof. Ts. Dr Haji Mohamad Kamal Haji Harun prior to the signing of the Letter of Intent between the universities mentioned how SKSU has made a timely decision to venture into halal academic and business initiatives. He highlighted that “by working together with UiTM, it will open many doors for unlimited opportunities”.
Both parties agreed on collaborative efforts, concentrating on halal agenda on research and publication, talent development and certification and halal business development in the region. Also in the pipeline, is the development of halal modules and programmes, participation in global volunteering program, academic and student mobility, which is part of a long-term project initiative. The collaboration would not only help to accelerate the region’s economic growth via its emergence as a Muslim-friendly destination, but it would also create greater prospects for UiTM to tap into global reach.
The MOU signing ceremony was also witnessed by Dr. Hajah Zainab Mohd Noor, Director of UiTM Office of International Affairs and Dr. Idaya Husna Mohd, Head of International Cooperation, Training and Development. iHALALMAS representatives were Assoc. Prof. Dr Erne Suzila Kassim and Dr Ismah Osman.
“Reconnect Your World with International Collaboration”
Prepared by: Dr. Ismah Osman & Assoc. Prof. Dr. Erne Suzila Kassim, UiTM
Edited by: Assoc.Prof.Dr.Geetha Subramaniam, Fellow, InQKA, UiTM