JOHOR BAHRU, 13 Feb – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and Western Digital have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen academia-industry collaboration. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to advancing innovation, talent development, and high-impact research that not only addresses global challenges but also contributes to Malaysia’s sustainable economic growth.
The MoU signing ceremony, held at UTM, was officiated by UTM’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research & Innovation), Prof. Dr. Rosli Md Illias, and Western Digital’s Vice President of Global Operations, Dr. Chandramogan Anamirtham. The event was witnessed by the Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Prof. Dr. Zaini Ahmad, and Mr. Ser Teck Ng, Senior Director at Western Digital.
This MoU marks a significant step towards bridging the gap between academic institutions and industry. Prof. Dr. Rosli Md Illias expressed his deep appreciation to Western Digital for their invaluable contributions in upgrading the UTM’s Industrial Engineering Laboratory. The newly enhanced lab is now equipped with cutting-edge industry applications, providing students with hands-on exposure to advanced industrial systems.
This initiative will help students adapt to the demands of the global workforce. Additionally, the collaboration includes the establishment of a satellite lab at C25, as well as upgrades to seminar rooms, meeting rooms, and the IEEE Lab Lounge. These enhanced facilities will be equipped with advanced tools, ensuring that students and researchers have access to the latest technology in a more conducive learning environment.
The partnership focuses on several key initiatives, including industry-driven research through collaborative projects that address critical challenges in advanced engineering and technology. Talent development is also a priority, with comprehensive student programs such as internships and mobility opportunities to enhance students’ industry readiness. Additionally, knowledge sharing plays a crucial role through joint conferences, industry talks, and high-impact publications aimed at driving innovation beyond traditional boundaries.
“This partnership is more than just an agreement; it is a transformative alliance between academia and industry. Together, we are creating an environment that bridges theory with practice, empowering students with real-world skills and fostering globally competitive, innovative, and entrepreneurial talent,” said Prof. Dr. Rosli.
Aligned with the Seven Main Focus Areas of the Ministry of Higher Education, particularly Focus Area 1: Provision of the Nation’s Best Talent, this collaboration also supports UTM’s Empowerment of Industry on Campus (IoC) Initiative, which aims to integrate industry-driven learning within the university ecosystem.
During the ceremony, Western Digital also awarded two research grants worth RM100,000, further solidifying its commitment to high-impact research. Future plans include student exchange programs, staff development opportunities, and new research collaborations.
Prof. Dr. Rosli emphasized that this partnership not only enhances UTM’s ability to produce world-class graduates but also strengthens the role of academia-industry collaboration in driving national and regional economic growth. “This is a major step toward realizing enVision UTM 2025, which focuses on a four-way collaboration between the government, universities, industry, and community,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Dr. Chandramogan Anamirtham reaffirmed Western Digital’s commitment to nurturing talent and promoting innovation. “We are proud to partner with UTM to inspire the next generation of talent and support impactful research that aligns with sustainable industrial practices,” he said.
This MoU exemplifies the immense potential of academia and industry working hand-in-hand to shape a brighter, more innovative, and sustainable future for Malaysia and beyond.
