Tag: Malaysia

Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Pulau Pinang branch, Penang, Malaysia received a courtesy visit and benchmarking from a delegation from Bali Tourism Polytechnic (BiTP), Indonesia, on various activities. The delegates were Dr. Ida Bagus Putu Puja (Director of BiTP), Dr. Luh Yusni Wiarti (Deputy Director 3 for Cooperation), Mdm. Lukia Zuraida (Head of Quality Assurance) and Mdm. Dewa Ayu Made Lily Diana Sari (Coordinator of Tourism Destination Programme). One of the activities is benchmarking for QS ranking (Quacquarelli Symonds ranking). The main programme of benchmarking by BiTP includes discussion sessions with university management and the implementation of the QS University Ranking, QS Ranking by Subject, and other related areas. From the UiTM Pulau Pinang Branch, six members were involved, led by Professor Dr. Hashim Fadzil Ariffin (Faculty Head of the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Management (FPHP)), who was joined by Dr. Anderson Ngelambong (Head of Bachelor\’s Programme of FPHP), Associate Professor Ir. Dr. Nor Azlan Othman (Head of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering (PKE)), Associate Professor Dr. Noorsuhada Md Nor (Ranking Champion), Dr. Nor Khadijah Mohd Azhari (Coordinator of the International Affairs Office) and Associate Professor Ir. Dr. Nor Salwa Damanhuri (Member for Solar Engineering). To get a clear picture of the implementation of the QS ranking, an exchange event was held on November 3, 2023, at Bilik Mesyuarat UiTM Global, UiTM Shah Alam, Selangor.

The benchmarking was officially chaired by Professor Dr. Ahmad Naqiyuddin Bakar, Director of Strategic Partnership. A lively discussion was held with the Chairman and delegates of BiTP, Indonesia, especially on QS ranking and strategic planning for the future between two universities from two countries. The Director of the Ranking Department, Ir. Dr. Amirul Abd Rashid, shared the QS ranking initiatives with all participants. He started with the organisation that produces the university ranking, the resident reviewers, the university’s strategic direction towards the ranking, the framework to improve the strategy, the Malaysia Education Blueprint, and others. The delegates were then honoured by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Internationalisation) of Professor Dr. Shahriman Zainal Abidin.

The session did not end at UiTM Global, in the afternoon, it continued with an exchange with the Dean of the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Management, Associate Professor Dr. Norzuwana Sumarjan, and the Deputy of Academic Affairs. The session is closely related to the QS by Subject on Hospitality and Leisure Management, as the FPHP is ranked 52–100th (2023) in the global QS World University Ranking. As UiTM moves into the future, the commitment to excellence and continuous improvement remains steadfast. As benchmarking against global academic standards and striving for a higher QS ranking is an integral part of BiTP’s strategic vision, the strategic collaboration with UiTM will continue as a good partnership globally.

The current demand for company priorities and jobs requirements has shifted substantially. In today’s challenging economic conditions, new graduates must possess both academic knowledge and essential soft skills to succeed in the labor market. There are increasing requirements. and most businesses value fresh graduates who have great interpersonal abilities as well as other soft skills. Besides, when it comes to career opportunities in Malaysia, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) constitute 98.5% of all businesses operate in a variety of industries. This includes commerce, manufacturing, construction, oil and gas, and many more. The present legislation, the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994, do not require a person in charge of safety and health officer (SHO) for organizations with more than 500 employees, or 100 people in certain high-risk industries. However, workplace Accidents and incidents are increasing in small and medium-sized enterprises.

As a result, the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) in Malaysia implemented a proactive approach by introducing the Occupational Safety Health-Coordinator (OSH-C) competency to support SMEs’ capability development in the areas of occupational safety and health. This can be apparent from the OSHA (Amendment) 2022, stipulated in Section 29A (1), which mandates any employer with five or more employees to appoint an OSH-C to coordinate occupational safety and health issues at work. Indeed, to become a SHO, it is not necessary to have OSH-C certification, but it is advantageous to have the certification because it conveys basic knowledge. The fundamental knowledge of OSH-C will be easier for those who are interested in becoming SHOs. Roles for the OSH-C is to assist employers in coordinating OSH legislation and OSH programs in the place of work. According to this demand, the OSH-C must satisfy each SME.

Recognizing the significance of this, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) took the initiative to organize a training program based on competency abilities for OSH-C. Through the KPT-CAP 2.0 grant, the Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia, has sponsored this program and implemented it through the OSH-C training course. From March 2nd to the 8th of 2024, organized at the Dewan Anjung Pepatih, UiTM Cawangan Negeri Sembilan, Kampus Kuala Pilah has successfully hosted this seven-day course. Utechtium Sdn. Bhd. provided the training with certified trainers. A total of 30 public university alumni from diverse backgrounds attended the training. The training resulted in 30 participants obtaining a Certificate of Occupational Safety and Health Department Recognition from DOSH. The seven-day program includes ten occupational health and safety modules as well as three holistic success modules (HSM), encompassing the UiTM Intellectual Properties (IP) module.

The two modules provided the participants with a balanced exposure to both holistic and occupational safety and health skills. This aligns with the development of human capital as an OSH-C who fits the standards of today’s company. The OSH module employed during training meets the DOSH Malaysia criteria. Furthermore, prior studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of the HSM. The certification obtained by participants is strongly believed to help the graduates’ employability. The coupling of these two modules aims to enhance the participants’ soft skills and interpersonal abilities. This program aligns with the Quality Education Strategic Thrusts in UiTM’s Strategic Plan 2021-2025 and contributes toward achieving the Globally Renowned, Locally Rooted by 2025 goals. The participants have the potential to become OSH-C in the future, capable of implementing routine and best practices in safety and health within their workplace.

As a testament to the strength of global cooperation, a delegation of seven individuals from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Malaysia’s esteemed partner university, recently embarked on a transformative journey lasting 14 days in mid-February 2024. The program offered a range of enriching experiences covering academia, community engagement, intercultural activities, and cultural immersion. Comprising two lecturers and five students, the delegation departed from KLIA airport on February 20, 2024, eagerly anticipating diverse traditions and perspectives while looking forward to engaging with counterparts at HTW Saar and beyond.

One notable highlight of their visit involved a touching community project alongside the local community at HTW Saar. This project took place at the AWO Hohenzollern Daycare Center, where the delegation interacted with local children, fostering strong bonds of affection and cultural understanding. During the project, the delegation had the opportunity to teach the children dance routines using Malaysian children’s songs and to engage in coloring activities depicting Malaysia’s iconic landmarks and buildings.

The entire program was initiated by Prof. Dr. Alexander Pöschl of HTW Saar and made possible through collaboration with and sponsorship from the Hager Group, making the company visit a must-do activity in Saarbrücken. Featuring company tours and sharing sessions between Hager personnel and Nurul Salizawatee Mahpar, an academician from FBM, the experience provided invaluable insights and knowledge.

Moreover, the delegation took advantage of the chance to introduce the diverse tapestry of Malaysian culture to students at HTW Saar, providing a glimpse into their homeland’s rich heritage and traditions. Talks regarding potential exchange programs were conducted with the International Office of HTW Saar, overseen by Doris Kollman in the presence of the esteemed Dean of the Faculty of Economics, Prof. Dr. Met Malte Beinhauer, indicating a bright future for academic cooperation and student exchange between the two institutions.

Venturing beyond the borders of Saarbrücken, the Malaysian delegation embarked on an enthralling journey for a cultural immersion experience in neighboring France and Baden-Württemberg, delving into the diverse cultural tapestry of Europe. From the picturesque streets of Paris to the historic charm of Metz and the cosmopolitan allure of Luxembourg, the delegation embraced the essence of these vibrant cities, forging connections and deepening their appreciation for cross-cultural exchange.

Remarkably, the delegation also had the privilege of gaining firsthand insights into Germany’s industrial prowess through a factory tour of the Hager Group in Blieskastel and a visit to the Völklinger Hütte Ironworks. Complemented by an intercultural workshop with employees, these experiences provided invaluable perspectives on intercultural communication and collaboration in a professional context, enhancing the delegation’s understanding of global business practices.

As the Malaysian delegation bids farewell to Saarbrücken, they leave behind a legacy of friendship, collaboration, and cultural exchange. Their visit not only strengthens the bonds between UiTM and HTW Saar but also serves as a testament to the transformative power of international cooperation in fostering mutual understanding and building bridges across continents. Most importantly, their expedition serves as an inspiring example for fellow UiTM students, showcasing the enriching encounters and meaningful relationships that await those who engage in global exchange initiatives. We extend our gratitude to each member of the delegation who played a pivotal role in fostering cultural exchange and collaboration during their visit to HTW Saar in Saarbrücken, Germany.

Focusing on the main aim to become a Globally Renowned University and respected globally, the Academy of Language Studies, UiTM Kedah Branch, Malaysia does its part for UiTM by initiating a collaboration with a reputable and prestigious Japanese university, Akita International University. Sealing the linkage between both institutions with an online signing ceremony on 31 January 2024, UiTM Kedah Branch and Akita International University are set to proceed with more mutually beneficial activities.

So far, before signing the MoU, there were already two activities conducted by both institutions. Firstly, Mr. Travis Senzaki, the International Relations Officer was invited to give an online Global Learning talk to more than 100 UiTM students on 8 May 2023. The talk was on how to provide personal responses to a short story. Mr. Travis was invited because he is also a fiction writer. The Global Learning session was organized by a group of English language lecturers led by Puan Syazliyati Ibrahim and assisted by Puan Robekhah Harun, Puan Nor Asni Syahriza Abu Hassan and Puan Sharifah Syakila Syed Shaharuddin.

The second activity conducted was the International Teaching Practicum project held from 1 October 2023 until 31 December 2023. UiTM Kedah Branch received three post-graduate students from AIU who taught three English language diploma classes. The post-graduate students completed three two-hour sessions observing the classes and two two-hour sessions teaching the students. The post-graduate teacher-students are Rintaro Ikegami, Farhana Sarmin and Wenxin Zhang. These AIU students were co-supervised by Puan Syazliyati Ibrahim, Puan Robekhah Harun and Puan Syakirah Mohammed from UiTM and also Professor Hiroki Uchida and Professor Dr. Chris Carl Hale from AIU.

Both universities are grateful and satisfied for the dynamic participation of the lecturers in the activities conducted so far. Going forward after the MoU signing, it is hoped that other useful activities will be planned and executed to benefit the students in producing globally oriented students in the future.

A group of senior lecturers from the Universiti Teknologi MARA, Negeri Sembilan branch (UiTMCNS), Malaysia, have successfully developed a massive open online course (MOOC) for the General Virology course which is named “MIC281 MOOC” to be offered as an open online course for the enrolment of users from all over the world. The MIC281 MOOC is a basic virology introductory online course that can efficiently act as a basic knowledge for many disciplines including biology, microbiology, environmental microbiology, advanced virology, veterinary, health sciences, and also in medical sciences. Students or scientists from around the world can enroll to this MOOC as an additional course to enhance their knowledge of viruses. Interestingly, at the same time, MIC281 MOOC was also utilized as a supplementary learning tool to support the teaching and learning activity in the classroom. All in all, MIC281 MOOC is a great platform with multiple functions that can benefit various groups.

The MIC281 MOOC has been utilized to enhance the student learning experience by utilizing interactive posters, exciting teaching videos, colorful 3D images, educational games, activities, and also quizzes. This online course can aid students to further grasp the factual knowledge taught in the classroom in a more exciting, interactive, and efficient way. Each chapter has its respective games to test students\’ knowledge in a very fun way. One of the most exciting features of MIC281 MOOC is the practical activities included. The practical activity can be performed by students even at home using easily available materials. This practical session is very efficient in helping the students to understand the characteristics of the virus via a hands-on activity which is believed to be a very efficient learning method.

A validated questionnaire was utilized by the developers to assess the efficiency of the MIC281 MOOC in enhancing students\’ learning experience. Several items were also included in the questionnaire on the practicality and usefulness of the developed MOOC to assess the students\’ experience using the MOOC in their learning process. Based on the users\’ feedback, out of 103 respondents, 85% were satisfied with how easy it was to use the developed MIC281 MOOC and 92% agreed that the interactive elements developed contributed to the excitement of its use. 91% agreed that MIC281 MOOC helped them to refresh the knowledge they have gained in the classroom and 92% expressed their impression that the developed MOOC was useful in learning the course.

The MIC281 MOOC was awarded the gold medal and the special award of “Best MOOC for Science and Technology” in the International e-Content Development Competition 2023. More MOOCs should be developed with greater interactivity and excitement to enhance the user learning experience. Fun, colorful, and efficient MOOCs can promote life-long learning activities not only for students but also for any person of all ages who enjoys enhancing their knowledge without attending physical classes.

An extraordinary feat of collaboration unfolded as UiTM Technoventure and the Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) seamlessly orchestrated the remarkable MBSA Digital Construction Convention 2023, held on October 17-18, 2023. Under the banner of ‘Leading the Digital Transformation in Project Management,’ this convention beckoned over 250 passionate participants, including seasoned professionals, industrious contractors, local authorities, esteemed academics, and eager students.

The grand inauguration was graced by none other than Ir Hj Cheremi Bin Tarman, the Deputy Mayor of MBSA, setting the tone for an exceptional event. The convention revolved around three pivotal forums, each delving into the cutting-edge realm of ‘Digital Technologies Transformation in Project Management.’ Guided by the insightful Datin Sr Norani Amat, MBSA’s Head of Tender and Quantity Survey, this first forum featured a distinguished panel comprising Ts Muhammad Khairi Sulaiman, JKR Director of BIM, Ar Zamri Ismail, Director & BIM Manager of Zamri Ismail Arkitek, and Dato’ Ts Hj Mohd Taufik Haron, CEO of IKRAM Works.

The second forum, ‘Encouraging Digitization in Project Management: Blueprinting the Digital Technologies,’ was masterfully moderated by the erudite Professor Sr Ts Dr Abdul Hadi Nawawi from UiTM Shah Alam. This engaging forum boasted a trio of luminaries: Dato Dr Ts Gerald Sundaraj, Director of CIDBWKL, Ms. Izrinda Farini Rosli, Senior Planning Manager at Sunway Construction, and Dr Mohd Nazri Bajuri, Director of KAGOOL.

On the second day, the third and final forum, ‘Digitalization in Project Management: Industrial Insights,’ was expertly moderated by the eminent Professor Dr Mohamad Nidzam Rahmat from UiTM Shah Alam. The panel of industry giants featured Abi Safwan Mazran Ibrahim, the visionary behind 3D Parametric, Ismail Bukhari, a Senior Tunnel Engineer at MMC Gamuda, and Ts Azita Yusoof, a distinguished Construction Manager at YTL. These forums yielded invaluable insights and shared experiences on digital transformation, projecting the future of Malaysia’s construction industry into a new era.

Moreover, the convention served as a dynamic platform for showcasing the latest advancements in digital technologies. Renowned companies such as IKRAM, BIMAGE Consulting, Selangor Advance/Capbay, Keymag Controls, and RDM graced the exhibition booths, exhibiting the future of construction technology. The curtains of this illustrious event descended with a stirring closing address by Professor Dr Mohamad Nidzam Rahmat, the head of the MBSA Convention 2023, as he eloquently summarized the profound outcomes of all three forums, underscoring the imperative need for digital transformation across the construction landscape in the near future.

Such a resounding success was made possible through the unwavering commitment and relentless support of UiTM Technoventure consultants and the MBSA organizing team. Their dedication culminated in the realization of this event, which coincided with the vibrant celebration of Shah Alam City Day. The convention’s overarching mission was to assemble professionals, technical luminaries, industry experts, technology providers, and stakeholders in the construction sphere, all with the shared purpose of pioneering the use of digital technology in the management of construction projects.

A knowledge transfer program (KTP) through community service learning to recycle use cooking oil into soap was conducted by a group of researchers from the Faculty of Applied Science, UiTM Shah Alam. Led by PM Dr Zainiharyati Mohd Zain, the Salam Komuniti Lestari Program under the financial support from Selangor State Government, Malaysia was held on the 21st of August 2022, at Dewan MBSA Seri Pagi, Kampung Paya Jaras, Seksyen U19, Shah Alam. The event was officiated by YBrs. Pn. Mariam Binti Abdul Rashid, Board member of MBSA Zone 23 and Prof. Dr. Mohamad Hariri Bin Hj. Abdullah, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Industry, Community and Alumni Network) UiTM. Also, present Prof. Dr. Hjh. Farida Zuraina Binti Mohd Yusof, Dean of the Faculty of UiTM Applied Sciences, Member of the Board and Director of the MBSA Department.

The aim of this project is to provide soap making knowledge and awareness via a close engagement between academics, governmental agencies, and community on the process of recycling used cooking oil into soap. In addition, a greener approach was implemented in a more simple and cheaper way.

This community initiative raises awareness, exposure, and training for 30 participants in the Shah Alam City Council’s authority to recycle used cooking oil into soap manufacture at their homes or businesses. Cooking oils are commonly used more than once in frying process. Consumption of wasted cooking oil more than twice as a source of fried food has cancerous effects on human health owing to alterations in the oil’s molecular structure generated by high temperatures during the frying process. Furthermore, improper disposal of used cooking oils can also lead to environmental pollutions.

The soap making optimisation process was brought from the lab to community using cleaner and simpler recycling procedure, adapted to the community’s knowledge and at-home facilities. The soap production quality was enhanced by utilising a different formulation, considering several factors including the moisture content, fragrance, pH value, and physical properties. This project is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4 (Quality Education) and 12 (responsible Consumption and Production). The community service has raised awareness about the need of recycling leftover cooking oil and has the potential to create money by creating soap, which would help the local economy in Selangor state.

Fostering interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) among high school students is crucial for preparing the next generation of innovators and problem solvers. In recent time, it has been observed that more students are less interested in STEM subjects due to the perception that these subjects are too difficult.

The percentage of students taking the science stream had declined from year to year whereas STEM education is very important to prepare and help developing country, such as Malaysia to navigate the fourth industrial revolution (IR 4.0). This problem can be seen deteriorating in most schools, especially among high school students and has created concern among school teachers. One of the schools that was affected by this percentage drop is Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Bahau (a high school in Negeri Sembilan). To overcome this problem, the principal and the teachers have taken the initiative to organize a science and mathematics exhibition in conjunction with STEM month which held for two weeks starting from 4th until 15th September 2023.

The main objective of this program is to instill interest in STEM and give opportunities to the students to admire the subjects of STEM. More than 800 participants comprising students, counsellors, teachers, staffs and representatives from the other educational institution took part in the exhibition. The Faculty of Applied Sciences UiTM Negeri Sembilan Campus is honored to receive an invitation from SMK Bahau to hold a STEM exhibition. A group of lecturers and laboratory assistants from the Departments of Biology, Physics, Food Technology, Textile Technology and Mathematics were involved with the exhibition, each setting up a booth aligned with their respective fields.

During this exhibition, the students gained so much knowledge and were given the opportunity to explore the experiments and games prepared by each booth, leaving them inspired and eager to delve deeper into the world of science and technology. The exhibition has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from both students and their teachers. Initiatives like this offer students engaging, hands-on learning experiences, making STEM activities enjoyable and captivating, ultimately enabling students to go beyond mere rote learning. It is hoped that more programs outside the school in collaboration with UiTM can be continued, especially for rural students who lack in terms of laboratory facilities and expertise.