UMPSA Vice-Chancellor’s Townhall with FTKPM community focuses on talent development and creation of new technologies

PEKAN, 14 May 2026 – The manufacturing sector plays a strategic role in national development, not merely as a user of technology but also as a leader in the creation of new technologies capable of enhancing the competitiveness of local industries at the global level.

According to the Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA), Professor Ts. Dr. Yatimah Alias, the manufacturing sector is one of the main contributors to the country’s economic growth through the production of high-value products, the development of a skilled workforce, and the strengthening of an industrial ecosystem driven by innovation and smart technology.

“The Faculty of Manufacturing and Mechatronic Engineering Technology (FTKPM) must continue to be strengthened as a centre for talent development, research, and innovation to produce competent and dynamic graduates who are ready to meet the demands of the Industrial Revolution 4.0.

“Emphasis on continuous training, strengthening knowledge, and close collaboration with industry is crucial in ensuring that the country’s manufacturing sector remains relevant and sustainable and is able to contribute to the national development agenda,” she said during the Townhall session with the UMPSA Vice-Chancellor held today with the FTKPM community.

She was welcomed upon arrival by the Dean of FTKPM, Professor Ir. Dr. Ahmad Razlan Yusoff, and the faculty management team.

Also present were Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Strategic and Corporate), Professor Ts. Dr. Kamal Yusoh, and Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Development), Professor Dr. Mahadzir Ishak@Muhammad.

In strengthening the relationship between the university and the faculty, she emphasised that UMPSA must continue to serve as a centre of reference for knowledge and technology that creates an impact on society and industry.

In addition, lecturers were encouraged to have a big dream in their respective areas of expertise by leveraging opportunities for matching grant assistance and research collaborations coordinated under the Department of Research and Innovation (JPI).

During the meeting, Professor Ts. Dr. Yatimah also touched on the UMPSA Strategic Plan 2026–2030, which emphasises strengthening governance, improving financial management efficiency, developing academic and student talent, as well as implementing cost-saving initiatives currently undertaken by the university.

She also shared UMPSA’s strategic approach to expanding its international network, including collaboration with strategic partners from China, particularly in the field of technology.

Strategic relationships with industry partners are also given attention as part of efforts to strengthen the TVET education ecosystem and graduate employability.

In addition, UMPSA is currently developing coursework- and research-based postgraduate programmes in Advanced TVET to meet current and future industry needs.

During the dialogue session with staff, several issues were also raised, including the Key Work Targets (SKU), career development opportunities, and the phased enhancement of the existing Academician Performance System (APS) to ensure more efficient management.

She also emphasised that TVET is the backbone of national development and that UMPSA will remain committed to empowering talent in the field for the future of the country’s technical education.

The Townhall is one of the initiatives by UMPSA management to share the university’s achievements and strategies, strengthen a common direction with the university community, advance advanced TVET education, and enhance UMPSA’s engagement with industry and international partners.

By: Naqiah Puaad, Centre for Corporate Communications
Translation by: Ts. Dr. Rozaimi Abu Samah, UMPSA Press