Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA): A Legacy of Excellence and a Vision for the Future

29 December 2023

This institution was established as Kolej Universiti Kejuruteraan dan Teknologi Malaysia (KUKTEM) in 2002. It then evolved into a fully-fledged university and underwent a transformation, leading to its renaming as Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP) in February 2007. Emerging as a guiding light of academic excellence and holistic growth, UMP, commemorating its 21st anniversary in February 2023, is now known as Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA). Named in honour of His Majesty Yang Maha Mulia Seri Paduka Baginda Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah Ibni Almarhum Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta’in Billah, this institution has etched an indelible mark in the academic realm. It has captured hearts and minds since its rebranding. In the words of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Ts. Dr. Yusserie Zainuddin, the rebranding at the peak of success coincides with the university’s vision towards a leading technological university and will build the university’s visibility, reputation, and capabilities in line with its world-recognised achievements.

Academic Excellence

UMPSA stands tall as a bastion of academic excellence, offering a comprehensive array of programmes based on Engineering and Technology that are capable of enriching the high-level Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) ecosystem in Malaysia. The curriculum in the programmes offered in this university exemplifies a harmonious blend of theoretical and practical aspects, and the subject matter experts, distinguished in their fields, orchestrate a learning milieu that hones critical thinking and intellectual values.

Pioneering Research, Innovation, and Commercialisation

In the field of research, the university focuses on applied research and industrial projects with local industries to enrich teaching and learning. UMPSA also promotes research products and commercialisation activities for the benefit of society in line with the tagline ‘Technology for Society’. The university’s Research and Innovation Department, led by Professor Ts. Dr. Kamal Zuhairi Zamli, is focused on creating a vast world of innovation and creativity by cultivating and supporting all efforts of the know-how technology to be shared by all. To date, the university’s researchers have carved a niche in various areas, pioneering discoveries in sustainable technologies, renewable energy, advanced materials, and environmental conservation.

Nurturing Industry Alliances and Fostering Employability

As a member of the Malaysian Technical Universities Network (MTUN), UMPSA is committed to creating innovation and uniqueness in academic programmes through strategic collaborations at the international level. Engineering programmes using world-class models such as the partnership with Germany’s Karlsruhe University of Applied Science (HKA) are seen as the best benchmark for universities in Malaysia. These initiatives not only increase students’ employability but also propel the regional economy. UMPSA alumni, renowned for their practical acumen and ethical diligence, are consistently sought-after by employers. In 2023, it was reported that the marketability of UMP graduates is among the highest in Malaysia at around 98.67%.

Global Recognition and Transcending Boundaries

UMPSA’s resonance extends beyond geographical borders, as evidenced by its vibrant global collaborations and alliances. Through academic cross-pollination, collaborative research ventures, and participation in international conferences, UMPSA has garnered international acclaim. As the top university in the Malaysian Technical University Network (MTUN), UMPSA will continue to demonstrate its commitment to the sustainable development goals (SDG) as well as evaluate the university’s efforts in addressing global environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues. This global exposure empowers its staff and students with intercultural adeptness and a global outlook, priming them for leadership in an interconnected world.

Societal Enrichment and Philanthropic Endeavours

Embedded in UMPSA’s core values is a profound commitment to societal upliftment, expressed through dedicated community engagement and outreach initiatives like Sukarelawan Kilau and Profesor Turun Padang. The university also pioneers research-driven solutions and shares the benefits of technological expertise in cultivating a friendly ecosystem for the people with disabilities (OKU) community. It proves UMPSA’s commitment to implementing inclusive education for them. The university also extends educational empowerment to underserved communities. These endeavours inculcate a sense of social responsibility in staff and students, imparting the values of altruism and positive community impact.

21st Anniversary and Beyond: A Future of Promise

As UMPSA celebrates 21 years of excellence, its past achievements form the stepping stones to a promising future. The collective aspirations of UMPSA’s staff and students have set the stage for even greater successes. While charting its course ahead, the university maintains an unwavering dedication to academic excellence, transformative research, collaboration with industry, global engagement, and the advancement of societies. UMPSA’s legacy is also a testament to its unrelenting pursuit of excellence, echoing the vision and values of His Majesty Yang di-Pertuan Agong. This rebranding will continue to steer the university towards glory by emerging as the best technological university on the global stage as well as produce quality human capital in driving national development. Here’s to the legacy of the past and the promises of the future!

AMY ZULAIKHA BINTI MOHD ALI