JOHOR BAHRU, 7 July – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) achieved cost savings of RM2.07 million for the year 2013 by reducing travel expenses, telephone bills, stationery and food spent on  official University functions.

This success was derived from the university’s actions in controlling spending and introducing sustainability into all aspects of its policy administration.

Announcing this at the monthly gathering with the university staff, UTM Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Datuk Ir. Dr. Wahid Omar said the financial sustainability policy currently adopted has no intention to reduce expenses which are necessary or essential.

For instance, there is an increase in UTM’s medical bills as “UTM continues to pay for the medical expenses of its staff,  which in 2014 recorded an increment of RM0.24 million,” he said.

The increment was driven primarily by the growing number of staff and retirees who undergo costly treatment such as dialysis.

At the end of the monthly assembly, Prof. Wahid put a giant replica of a cigarette in a trash can as a symbolic gesture signalling the launch of UTM as a smoke-free zone.

Also in attendance were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academic and International, Prof. Dr. Rose Alinda Alias, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research and Innovation, Prof. Ir. Dr. Mohd. Azraai Kassim, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Student Affairs and Alumni, Prof. Dr. Mohd Ismail Abd. Aziz and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Development, Prof. Dr. Azlan Abdul Rahman.