KUALA LUMPUR, 15 Aug – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has started the collaboration with the technology transfer entity by signing a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Al-Hidayah Group (AHG), a leading organisation spearheading the development of sustainable Islamic economic models and D-8 Technology Transfer and Exchange Network (D-8 TTEN), Iran, a dynamic network situated within the framework of the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation encompass in capacity building, facilitating the exchange of information concerning technological capabilities, achievements, and requirements among member nations, and fostering coordination and synergy among the D-8 countries. This partnership, focused on the research, education, and entrepreneurship, fostering innovation, and sharing resources, was officially established yesterday during an LOI signing ceremony at Impiana KLCC Hotel, Kuala Lumpur.
Attending the LOI signing were the Director of UTM Innovation and Commercialisation Centre (ICC), Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Noor Azurati Ahmad @ Salleh, AHG Group Managing Director; Mr. Muhammad Kamil Baharin; and President of D-8 TTEN, Dr. Milad Sadrkhanlou. The event was also graced by the Chairman of AHG, Dato’ Ku Jaafar Ku Shaari and President of AHG, Hj. Bahrain bin Ayob along with other representatives from both organisations.
The LOI outlines several key initiatives aimed at explore and collaborate on research and development in areas of common interest, incubator programme, facilitate access to resources, specialized labs, or equipment to improve the innovation ecosystem, facilitate exchange of startup companies between the parks and promote technology transfer, jointly organise conferences, workshops, and seminars to bring together professionals, entrepreneurs, researchers, and investors and exchange information on government policies, funding opportunities, and regulatory policies that may impact the technology parks.
UTM ICC focuses on fostering innovation and supporting the commercialisation of research and technological developments. It works on promoting industry collaboration, managing intellectual property, and facilitating technology transfer to bridge the gap between research and practical application.
Founded in 2011 following the ratification of the 3rd Industry Ministers Meeting of D-8 member nations in Dhaka, Bangladesh, the D-8 TTEN was created to strengthen international cooperation. Pardis Technology Park, representing Iran, was appointed as the secretariat of D-8 TTEN.
In 2018, AHG was entrusted by the D-8 Organization to establish the D-8 Creative Economy and Financial Inclusion (D-8 CEFC) program. Overseen by Malaysia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this initiative aims to foster a vibrant economic ecosystem through creative industries and inclusive finance within D-8 member states, contributing to regional development and social impact.
The collaboration is set to benefit to UTM, AHG and D-8 TTEN, while also raising their global profiles. All institutions aim to enhance their reputations nationally and internationally, solidifying their positions as leaders in their respective fields.