JOHOR BAHRU, Oct. 2 – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) successfully hosted UTM Global Connect 2024, a two-day event at PERSADA Johor Bahru, aimed at strengthening international collaboration in higher education. The event underscored UTM’s commitment to driving innovation, fostering global partnerships, and creating a dynamic platform for idea exchange.
UTM Global Connect 2024 brought together five key programs, highlighting UTM’s leadership in cutting-edge research, transformative education, and pioneering technology. It also addressed global challenges and promoted sustainable development.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International), Prof. Dr. Mohd. Shafry Mohd Rahim, emphasized the increasing complexities of ‘Post-Normal Times’ and the urgent need for innovative solutions to tackle issues such as climate change and technological advancement. He noted that UTM Global Connect seeks to unite bright minds to develop holistic solutions, aligning with the Malaysia MADANI Framework for a sustainable future.
“Today marks a historic event for UTM, as five initiatives come together under UTM Global Connect, uniting diverse experts to address challenges and advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Malaysia MADANI Framework, the National Industry Master Plan (NIMP), the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), and the Johor Talent Development Council initiatives,” he said.
A key highlight was the World Technology Universities Congress (WTUC), which gathered representatives from 40 universities across 25 countries. Under the theme “Alliances for Diplomacy: Harnessing University Collaborations for Planetary Health,” WTUC focused on forming global partnerships to address environmental and societal challenges, showcasing the critical role of universities in promoting sustainability.
Another major feature was the New Academia Learning Innovation (NALI) program, led by UTM’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic & International). NALI seeks to transform education through innovative teaching methods and digital resources. Workshops explored best practices for equipping students with the skills needed in a technology-driven world.
The Industrial Art & Technology Exhibition (INATEX 2024) displayed UTM’s research and innovations aimed at solving global challenges. The exhibition included an innovation competition and business matching sessions, fostering collaboration between academia and industry. Additionally, the Festival Inovasi and Leaders Go Global Program highlighted staff innovations and leadership development, promoting knowledge sharing and global partnerships.
UTM Global Connect 2024 reaffirmed UTM’s role as a global leader in higher education and innovation, providing a vital platform for collaboration and shaping the future of research, education, and technology while strengthening UTM’s global relationships.