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Sultan officially opens ‘Heritage Trail’ in UMP

Dato’ Sri Adnan conferred honorary doctorate in Technology Management

Undergraduates urged to sharpen soft skills, rise to excellence

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Dato’ Sri Adnan conferred honorary doctorate in Undergraduates urged to sharpen soft skills, rise to 10 Researchers Won Medals At Iena and Bio Technology Management excellence Malaysia Exhibition 2010

05 From the Editor’s Desk 29 Academic Collaboration: UMP Spreads Wings To The US

Vice-Chancellor’s Voice 06 30 UMP, KUAS tie-up to enhance mould & die manufacturing 08 Pahang officially opens ‘Heritage Trail’ in UMP GACC is open in UMP 32 MAI, UMP to produce more than 5,600 local automotive engineers in various 10 5,000 staf and students attended Aidil dicipline by 2015 Fitri Celebration 34 1,000 visitors at UMP’s Invention 12 Dato’ Sri Adnan Exhibition conferred honorary doctorate in Technology Management 36 UMP launch Malaysia’s first Academic Initiative on Campus 14 UMP’s 5th Convocation 1,030 students received their degrees 38 CELS’ global certification to boost and diplomas industry confidence

16 A Mother’s Unconditional Love 40 UMP graduates selected to pioneer aerospace industry 18 Undergraduates urged to sharpen soft skills, rise to excellence 41 VC:Stand up & be heard

20 UMP honored for efforts in Biodiversity- 42 GACC is open in UMP Biotechnology Strategic Action Plan 44 UMP as the Basketball Sports Centre for 22 10 Researchers Won Medals at Iena and public universities Bio Malaysia Exhibition 2010 46 VC launches UMP Alumni Portal 24 UMP researchers bag 10 medals at MTE 08 2011 47 UMP gets second placing in NACES 2010 25 UMP spreads wings to Sarajevo Sultan Pahang officially opens ‘Heritage Trail’ in 48 7 best friends formed A Business UMP Company 26 UMP receives RM1.085 million Cenfed, UMPH welcomes agencies’ cooperation 50 Children of Malaysians Help Earthquake Victims 27 Vice-Chancellor receives AGBA Award 51 UMP’s Joyous ‘1Malaysia’ Light Festival 28 Professor Dr. Badhrulhisham, the new Night Contents Deputy VC

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EDITORIAL TEAM

Patron Professor Dato’ Dr. Daing Nasir Ibrahim

Editor-in-Chief Abd Rahman Haji Safie

Editors Mohd Rashdan Jamaludin Roslina Mohamad

Contributors Safriza Baharuddin Mohd Raizalhilmy Mohd Rais Abdul Shukur Ishak Azwin Arif Abdul Rahim Arman A. Rahim Mimi Rabita Abd Wahit Raihana Sulaiman Mohammad Ilzam Jamat Helmi Mohamed Isa Nor Salwana Haji Mohammad Idris

Artists Azman Md Diah Noor Azhar Abd Rasid

Photographer Khairu Aidilnishah Rizan Jalil

Distributors Hafizatulazlin Abdul Aziz Norhafizah Fadzillah Ahmad Mahdi Sulaiman

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be used or reproduced in any form or by Editor any means, including but not limited to electronic or mechanical photocopying, recording or Publication and Graphics Unit by any information storage or retrieval system or otherwise, without prior agreement and Vice-Chancellor’s Office, written permission from the publisher. The views or opinions contained in this publication Universiti Malaysia Pahang do not necessarily reflect the policy and standpoint of Universiti Malaysia Pahang. Universiti Lebuhraya Tun Razak 26300 Gambang Malaysia Pahang will not be liable or responsible towards any losses experienced by any Pahang Darul Makmur parties on performance or non-performance based on information in this publication. The unique combination of images, colors, sizes, typography, and positioning (“The Design”) of this Tel. : 09-549 3184/ 3193 magazine is copyright and may not reproduced. For further enquiries or contributions of articles Fax : 09-549 3199 and news, please forward to: e-Mail : [email protected]

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Pekan Review carves its niche

ll praises extend to the Almighty – the 3rd issue of Pekan Review finally made it to print. It was truly a daunting task for the Editorial Board when we first explored the skeletal make-up of Pekan Review, what identity would it take as the issues evolve. Today, with the unwavering support and close cooperation from all A rd contributing parties, the 3 issue meets the reading audience. In this issue, Pekan Review places on record the proud moments when UMP staff pooled together, in body and spirit, to commence the “Jejak Warisan” (Trail of Heritage) programme, in conjunction with the royal birthday celebration of the . It was a historical milestone, and ever so meaningful for the people of Pahang, to bear witness to the launching of preservation programme of stately cultural heritage for future Desk rom the E ditor’s

generations to appreciate. F Our heartiest congratulations to the , Dato’ Sri , on being conferred the honorary Doctor of Philosophy in Technology Management – at UMP’s 5th Convocation ceremony – for his incessant efforts to bring developments to the State. We also take our hats off to UMP researchers, who did the university proud when they clinched gold, silver and bronze medals at the International Trade Fair Ideas-Invention-New Products (IENA 2010) in Nuremberg, German, and at the Bio Malaysia 2010 Exhibition. As I pen off, the editorial team hopes Pekan Review will continue its internationalization momentum, setting the platform to catapult UMP’s accreditation in the global academia.

Happy Reading!

Abd Rahman Haji Safie

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-Pekan Review- Bridging Universiti Malaysia Pahang to the world community 07 Vice-Chancellor’s Voice UMP: Higher Education hub of Excellence

Greetings to all discerning readers,

2010 has left us with many good memories I strongly believe, as we persist in and especially, proud moments of historic executing the transformation efforts initiated transformation. Today, 2011 beckons us with last year, 2011 will eventually present us with many more challenges and hurdles, a notable year the opportune prospect of carving our niche as in which we have to engage proactively to stamp the technological university of choice, locally and our distinctive mark in the academia. globally. With only nine candles to our birthday With such a goal in mind, the university’s cake, UMP can already stand tall, among her 2011-2015 Strategic Planning has been set in long established peers, with her trademark motion – in line with the 10th Malaysia Plan – to accomplishments at both the national and undertake the Government’s call for institutions of international levels. higher learning to produce high quality and skillful The setting up of the German Academic & human capital. In the long run, this undertaking Career Centre has drawn exceptional interest from will help UMP realize her vision of becoming a Hochscule Karlsruhe Und Wirtschaft (HsKA) to higher education hub of excellence, collaborate and coordinate engineering academic As I pen off, a gentle reminder seems activities, laying down the groundwork for UMP befitting. To ensure sustainable excellence, the students to secure world renowned German university requires not only creative transformation, technological know-how, leading to a double mindset migration and continuous cohesion, but degree conferment. uppermost, good faith, in carrying out whatever Simultaneously, the cooperation sealed task assigned to us, which ultimately becomes the between UMP and China’s University of Hebei has backbone of future accomplishments. led to the founding of the Mandarin Language My parting advice, the success of UMP & Culture Centre. This Centre is a testament of depends largely on our concerted teamwork our commitment to transform UMP students into to bring our beloved university into a future of a multilingual graduates, who not only command unbridled excellence. the national language and English, but as well as Mandarin, to facilitate their industrial training in China, and complement domestic and international employment market demands. Professor Dato' Dr. Daing Nasir Ibrahim

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Sultan Pahang officially opens ‘Heritage Trail’ in UMP

ome 4,000 people His Highness Sultan His Highness Sultan comprising intellectuals, Pahang attended the event held on undergraduates, Anak September 25, 2010 at UMP Sports Pahang said the nation’s Pahang Undergraduates Complex. Also present were Menteri rich history and heritage Council Secretariat Besar Pahang, Yang Amat Berhormat must be held on diligently S(SeMAMPAN), government agencies’ Dato’ Sri Haji Adnan Haji Yaakob, representatives and UMP staff State Executive Councillor member and appreciated in a turned up at the official opening of and the programme’s chairman move to steer Malaysia Pahang Heritage Trail organised by Yang Berhormat Dato’ Haji Mohd. Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP), Sharkar Haji Shamsuddin, MUBARAK towards excellence as in collaboration with Former State acting president Dato’ Sri Abdul Aziz illustrated in Vision 2020. Assemblymen Council (MUBARAK) Abdul Rahman and Higher Education and Pahang government. Deputy Minister Yang Berhormat The programme’s objective Dato’ Saifuddin Abdullah. was to learn from the past and In his speech, His Highness moving ahead towards excellence. Sultan Pahang said the nation’s rich It was held in conjunction with His history and heritage must be held on Highness Duli Yang Maha Mulia Sultan diligently and appreciated in a move Pahang’s 80th birthday celebration. to steer Malaysia towards excellence

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as illustrated in Vision 2020. He added that UMP, with its among the younger generation His Highness also expressed expertise, was always committed so they will appreciate the joys of his concern if efforts towards in implementing initiatives that independence. achieving the goal were hampered would add values to efforts taken “We plan to carry out more due to the present generation’s in preserving Pahang’s history and of these programmes in institutions tendency to perceive the importance heritage. of higher learning and schools to of history as nonessential. Dato’ Sri Abdul Aziz Abdul inspire youngsters to think about UMP Vice-Chancellor Rahman also said MUBARAK always history. Professor Dato’ Dr. Daing Nasir worked closely together with “Among the programmes are Ibrahim said the programme kicked Government agencies, corporate Faces of Malaysia’s 100 Heroes and off with a forum where prominent bodies, public universities and non- art competition titled ‘My Hero’ at figures shared their knowledge and governmental organizations to schools in the Federal Territory,’’ he idea about the process of nation inculcate patriotism and love for the added. building, history of royal families, country among the people. He also said MUBARAK Pahang rulers and administrators “As an organization that would hold exhibitions titled, ‘Ruler and preparations to position the state draws together political leaders and the People Are Inseparable’ in the United Nations Educational, who have done good deeds to the which would showcase news reports Scientific and Cultural Organisation country, we are in the midst of our and historical writings, artifacts, (UNESCO)’s World Heritage Map list. own campaign to instill patriotism paintings and Pahang’s aristocrats.

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Sultan Ahmad Shah also graciously consented to cutting yellow 5,000 glutinous rice staf and students (pulut kuning) in conjunction with attended Aidil Fitri his 80th birthday anniversary. Celebration

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Committee Chairman Dato’ ‘rendang’, ‘laksa’ and a variety of Mohd Sharkar Shamsuddin, soup and drinks. Malaysia Council of Former State The organiser also held a Representatives (Mubarak) Acting contest for the most creative booth President Dato’ Sri Abdul Aziz Abdul which was won by Faculty of Civil Rahman and UMP Vice-Chancellor Engineering & Earth Resources with ome 5,000 UMP staff Professor Dato’ Dr. Daing Nasir its theme on heritage and sultanate. and students attended Ibrahim. The Registry Department took home the Aidil Fitri celebration Sultan Ahmad Shah also the second place while the Finance graced by His Highness graciously consented to cutting Department, in third place. Sultan of Pahang, Sultan yellow glutinous rice (pulut kuning) Professor Dato’ Dr. Daing SHaji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta’in Billah in conjunction with his 80th birthday Nasir, in his speech, said the Ibni Almarhum Sultan Abu Bakar anniversary. uniqueness in the celebration was Ri’ayatuddin al-Muadzam Shah and The guests were entertained translated through the variety of Her Highness Sultanah of Pahang, to performances staged from food prepared and dished out to the Sultanah Hajah Kalsom. students and artists from UMP’s guests. It was held on September Department of Culture and Arts. “For the most creative booth 25, 2010 at UMP Gambang campus. It was a lively celebration competition, winners were judged Also present were Menteri as 18 booths were set up with each based on the theme, creativity and Besar of Pahang Dato’ Sri Haji Adnan showcasing local delicacies and cleanliness. Haji Yaakob, Higher Education dishes. The booths were courtesy of “I want to congratulate Deputy Minister Dato’ Saifuddin Pusat Tanggungjawab (PTJ). On the the entire staff of UMP as they had Abdullah, State Information, list of menu included ‘nasi minyak’, worked hard to prepare for the Science, Technology and Innovation ‘soup’, ‘cendol’, ‘ketupat’, ‘lemang’, occasion,” he said.

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enteri Besar of Pahang, Dato’ Sri Adnan Dato’ Sri Yaakob, received an honorary doctorate degree in Technology Management,M from the Chancellor Adnan of Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP), Crown Prince Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah, at the university’s 5th conferred honorary Convocation ceremony, held at UMP Sports Complex in early October. doctorate in Technology According to UMP Vice- Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Dr. Daing Management Nasir Daing Ibrahim, the honorary conferment was in acknowledgment of the relentless efforts Dato’ Sri Adnan put in to make Pahang an

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According to UMP Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Dr. Daing Mohd Nasir Daing Ibrahim, the honorary Engineering, Bahrun Mohd Shakir, was the successful collaboration and Lim Jo Ann, both 23. between UMP’s Centre for conferment was in The Chancellor and Continuing Education & Professional acknowledgment Vice-Chancellor Awards went to Development (CENFED) and Baccalaureates in Civil Engineering, HICOM Automotive Manufacturers of the relentless Ng Kel-Wynn and Rozainah Ibrahim, (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., leading to 24 both 24, respectively. graduates receiving their Executive efforts Dato’ Sri Meanwhile, Baccalaureates Diploma in Industry Technology Adnan put in to in Mechanical Engineering, Chan See Management from the university’s Ling, 21, and Kelvin Koh, 24, took Faculty of Manufacturing Engineering make Pahang home the university’s Gold Award. & Technology Management. an affluent and Farah Arina Tamin, 24, from Also taking the spotlight the Faculty of Civil Engineering & was a disabled graduand, Siti Hawa prosperous state. Earth Resources was conferred the Apandi, 21, who suffered from Spinal Pahang Foundation Award, while Muscular Atrophy since childhood, Nur Afini Abdul Rahman, also 24, but with high-spirit, pulled through who graduated with a Bachelor’s to acquire her Diploma in Computer in Computer Science (Software Science. Engineering), was chosen to receive Prior to the convocation, a the HeiTech Padu Excellence Award. one-week carnival saw the staging of Another Industry Award, a talk on “Traditional Women versus from BASF Petronas Chemicals Modern Women”, hosted by Assistant Sdn Bhd, went to Rajaletchumy Vice-Chancellor (Students Affairs Veloo Kutty, 24, from the Faculty & Alumni), Professor Dr Yuserrie of Chemical & Natural Resources Zainuddin, with a panel of affluent and prosperous state. Engineering (Biotechnology). speakers made up of Kuala Sentol At the convocation, a total of This year’s convocation saw State Executive Councillor, Dato’ 1,030 students received their scrolls. the introduction of three new awards Shahaniza Samsuddin; Director Of the number, eight received their – namely, Ir Kee Book Hee Excellence of UMP’s International Office, Dr Master’s, while 834 received their Award (Chew Chai Siah, 24, from Wan Nurlidah Al Qadri; and UMP’s Bachelor’s and 196 their Diplomas. the Faculty of Civil Engineering Students Council Deputy Head, Nur And for the first time, after five & Earth Resources); Sapura Hafizah Abdul Razak. convocations, UMP witnessed its Industrial Bhd. Award (Nur Farah The carnival was officiated first doctoral graduand – Mohd Bazilah Wakhi Anuar, 23, from the by the Chairman of the university’s Ghani Awang, 54 – who received his Faculty of Mechanical Engineering Board of Directors, Dato’ Mohd Doctor of Philosophy in Technology (Automotive Engineering); and the Hilmey Mohd Taib. Management. Srikandi Matahari Award (Syarifah On the eve of UMP’s 5th The convocation ceremony Nur Atiqah Syed Ahmad, 24, from Convocation, Professor Dato’ Dr also laid witness to the conferment the Faculty of Civil & Earth Resources Daing Nasir launched its alumni’s of several other honourable awards. Engineering), contributed by UMP’s portal, during a dinner organized The Royal Education Award, in the Women Association (Matahari). by its Students Affairs & Alumni form of an Excellence Medal, went Another first highlighted Department and attended by over to two Baccalaureates in Chemical during the convocation ceremony 600 alumni.

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UMP’s 5th Convocation 1,030 students received their degrees and diplomas

enteri Besar of During the convocation, a Pahang, Dato’ Sri Haji total of 1,030 UMP students received Adnan Haji Yaakob their scrolls. was awarded the Eight of them received their honorary doctorate masters degree, 834 obtained their Mfor technology management from bachelor’s degrees while 196 earned Universiti Malaysia (UMP) Pahang their diplomas. Chancellor, Tengku Mahkota of UMP also produced its first Pahang Tengku Abdullah Sultan graduate for doctorate - Mohd. Ahmad Shah in conjunction with Ghani Awang, 54, who obtained its 5th Convocation at the sports his academic degree in technology complex hall on October 9, 2010. management. UMP Vice - Chancellor Bahrun Mohd Shakir dan Professor Dato’ Dr. Daing Nasir Lim Jo Ann, who were graduates of Ibrahim said the award was in Bachelor in Chemical Engineering recognition to the efforts taken by were announced as the recipients the Menteri Besar in turning Pahang for the Royal Academic Award – into a developed and prosperous the Excellence Medal (Anugerah state. Pelajaran Diraja - Pingat Jaya

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Award while Rajaletchumy Technology Management Faculty. d/o Veloo Kutty, a graduate of The success was also Bachelor in Chemical Engineering celebrated by physically –impaired (Biotechnology) was the recipient for student, Siti Hawa Apandi, 21, industrial award by BASF Petronas who was afflicted with Spinal Chemicals Sdn. Bhd. Muscular Atrophy (SMA) since Three new awards were also small. SMA causes progressive introduced in the convocation – Ir Kee muscle degeneration and weakness. Book Hee Excellence Award, Sapura Siti Hawa obtained a diploma in Industrial Berhad and Srikandi Computer Science and scored with Matahari Award, courtesy from UMP flying colours. Women Association (Matahari). UMP Alumni portal was also The Ir Kee Book Hee launched by Professor Dato’ Dr Excellence Award was presented Daing Nasir Ibrahim during a dinner to Chew Chai Siah, a graduate of organised by the Student Affairs and Bachelor in Civil Engineering. Alumni Department in conjunction Two more awards, Sapura with the convocation. More than Cemerlang). Industrial Berhad and Srikandi 600 alumni members turned for the ng Kel-Wynn and Rozainah Matahari award were accepted by event. Ibrahim, who were graduates of Nur Farah Bazilah Wakhi Anuar, a Meanwhile, Assistant Vice Civil Engineering, were presented graduate of Bachelor in Mechanical Chancellor (Student Affairs and with the Chancellor Award and Vice- and Automotive Engineering and Alumni), Professor Dr. Yuserrie Chancellor Award, respectively. Syarifah Nur Atiqah Sayed Ahmad, The University Gold Award a graduate of Bachelor in Civil Zainuddin hosted a talk show on was awarded to Chan See Ling and Engineering. women titled, ‘Traditional Women Koh Kelvin, who were graduates of It was noted that a Vs Modern Women’. The panelists Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering. programme created between were Kuala Sentol assemblywoman, The Pahang Foundation Centre for Continuing Education Dato’ Shahaniza Samsuddin, UMP’s Excellence Award was given to and Professional Development International Office Director, Dr. graduate of Bachelor in Civil (CENFED) and HICOM Automotive Wan Nurlidah Al Qadri and Student Engineering, Farah Arina Tamin. Manufacturers (Malaysia) Sdn. Representative Council Deputy nur Afini Abdul Rahman, a Bhd had successfully churned President, Nur Hafizah Abd. Razak. graduate of Bachelor in Computer out its first batch of 24 diploma It was launched by UMP’s Science (Computer Programming) graduates in industrial technology Board of Director Chairman, Dato’ was picked to receive the industrial executive management from the Mohd. Hilmey Mohd Taib a day before award - Heitech Padu Excellence Manufacturing Engineering and the convocation was held.

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niversiti Malaysia a neuromuscular disease A Mother’s Pahang (UMP)’s characterised by degeneration 5th Convocation of motor neurons, resulting in was a joyous and progressive muscular atrophy Unconditional historical moment (wasting away) and weakness. Ufor its 1,030 graduates. She has SMA since However, it was the most small and is unable to move. celebrated occassion for Siti Due to her condition Siti Hawa Hawa Apandi, 21. has to be fully depended on Love She is physically her mother, Zaidah Tamjis, 47. impaired but she stood However, the plucky tall among her peers upon young lady was a very receiving her scroll during the competitive student and this convocation held on October 9, was reflected in her being 2010. named in the dean’s list several The convocation was times. graced by UMP’s Chancellor His Siti Hawa’s CGPA for Highness Duli Yang Teramat the final semester was 3.79. Mulia Tengku Mahkota Pahang, She is one who does Tengku Abdullah Al-Haj Ibni not wallow in self-pity and Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al- is determined not to let her Musta’in Billah. disability to be a stumbling Siti Hawa has Spinal block in her pursuit of academic Muscular Atrophy (SMA), excellence.

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She is one who does not wallow in self-pity and is determined not to let her disability to be a stumbling block in her pursuit of academic excellence.

Siti Hawa moves around the success in life already makes me a mother as a very loving woman, campus in a wheel chair pushed by happy person. blessed with high level of patience. her mother who also helped change “Other people may see this “I would not know if other her dress and carry out daily routines as a burden but I am happy to be with mothers were willing to do what she in the hostel. her at all times. It was my greatest did. She sacrificed a lot and I am Zaidah sacrificed a lot to see pleasure to see my daughter whom really touched and moved by her to it that her daughter obtained the I have raised from small, made it to unselfishness. best in her studies. the university. She made it, just like “I will continue my studies “I do not mind doing all any other normal students,’’ Zaidah for a degree and this is my mother’s these things for the sake of Siti said. wish. I will do anything for her as Hawa’s future. To see her achieved Siti Hawa described her long as she is happy,” she said.

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Undergraduates urged to sharpen soft skills, rise to excellence

he Minister of Higher E d u c a t i o n , Dato’ Seri M o h a m e d TKhaled Nordin, urges the 40,366 students, who skills are complementary to hard This, he said, showed that have successfully secured their skills and theoretical learning, the Government has taken into placements in the local institutions which will eventually help mould account the rising cost of living of higher learning (IPTs) nationwide, undergraduates into balanced and and is disbursing part of its social to rise to excellence and sharpen holistic individuals. responsibilities to lighten the themselves with the necessary According to the Minister, financial burdens of parents and soft skills to evolve into becoming each year the Government allocates students alike. globally competitive graduates. a tremendous sum of budget for the Meanwhile, UMP Vice- The Minister said this to country’s younger generations to Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Dr Daing an audience of 1,674 students obtain tertiary education. Mohd Nasir Daing Ibrahim said at the official opening of the “Various forms of the university offers 2,570 places Undergraduates Orientation Week scholarships and education loans for students to pursue various 2010 (MINDS) held at the Sports are being provided by the National programmes at UMP. Of the number, Complex of Universiti Malaysia Fund for Tertiary Education (PTPTN). 2,270 students have enrolled for the Pahang (UMP) on July 4, 2011. “To make a point in case, bachelor’s programmes, while the Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khalid recently, the Ministry announced balance 300 for its diploma’s. further stressed that the Ministry that the Government has agreed to Professor Dato’ Dr Daing of Higher Education is putting more raise the maximum level of income Nasir further highlighted that an emphasis on the soft skills element for parents of students who wish to orientation week like MINDS is held as part of the main curriculum to be apply for a full education loan from at the beginning of a new semester taught at IPTs. PTPTN, from RM3,000 to RM4,000,” to allow students to familiarize Components of soft he added. themselves, not only with the

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infrastructural surroundings, but strategic relation and cooperation also to become acquainted with the established between UMP and interactions between fellow students HsKA, sealed with a Memorandum and senior student-facilitators. of Understanding at the University- “Current tertiary education Components of soft skills Industry Forum held in Kuantan and on-campus living climate are complementary to recently,” he said. demands great mental agility, and Present at the MINDS’ increasingly requires students to be hard skills and theoretical launching ceremony were a member more proactive and competitive,” he learning, which will of UMP’s Board of Directors, said. eventually help mould Khodijah Abdullah; Deputy Vice- The new semester saw undergraduates into Chancellor (Research & Innovation), 29 international enrolments, with Professor Dato’ Dr Rosli Mohd students coming from countries like balanced and holistic Yunus; Deputy Vice-Chancellor China, Iraq, Somalia, Sudan and individuals. (Academic & International), Yemen. Professor Dr Badhrulhisham Abdul For the first time, UMP has Aziz; Registrar, Mustafa Ibrahim; enrolled 10 new students into its Dean of Student Affairs & Alumni new double degree undergraduate Department, Professor Dr Yuserrie programme in Mechatronics Zainudin; Head of UMP Students Engineering, with scrolls to be (HsKA). Council, Mohd Aedlan Nur Ahmad; conferred by UMP and German’s “This double degree and his deputy cum MINDS 2010 Hochscule Karlsruhe Und Wirtschaft programme is a testament to the Director, Nor Hafizah Abdul Razak.

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UMP honored for efforts in Biodiversity- Biotechnology Strategic Action Plan

niversiti Malaysia Pahang citizens of Pahang. (UMP) received a Certificate The certificate was presented by of Appreciation from the State Tan Sri Muhyiddin to the university’s Vice- Government of Pahang in its Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Dr Daing Mohd efforts to chart out the State’s Nasir Daing Ibrahim. Present to witness UBiodiversity-Biotechnology Strategic Action the handover and official launch were Plan – which was officially launched by the Pahang Chief Executive, Dato’ Sri Adnan country’s Deputy Prime Minister, Tan Sri Yaakob, and Chairman of the State’s Muhyiddin Mohd Yassin – at the Sultan Haji Communications, Science, Technology & Ahmad Shah’s Silver Jubilee Hall in Kuantan, Innovation Committee, Dato’ Mohd Sharkar Pahang, on August 9, 2010. Shamsudin. The Pahang Biodiversity- At the same ceremony, UMP was Biotechnology Strategic Action Plan outlines also conferred the BioNexus’ Accredited the guidelines for public and private Laboratory status. The accreditation active participation in the biotechnology certificate was presented by the Chief industry, which has been earmarked for the Executive Officer of Malaysian Biotechnology prosperous and welfare development of the Corporation, Dato’ Iskandar Mizal Mahmood.

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“Consequently, UMP will be assisting the small and medium enterprises to conduct product research and development at the university, which in turn, will help our laboratories to be recognized as the best in the East Coast,” exclaimed the Vice-Chancellor.

“The accreditation from Malaysian Dato’ Mohd Sharkar, on behalf of the State. Biotechnology is an impetus for UMP Also present were UMP’s Deputy to provide adequate infrastructure and Vice-Chancellor (Academic & International), research facilities for product testing at the Professor Dr Badhrulhisham Abdul Aziz; university’s laboratories,” said Professor Registrar, Mustafa Ibrahim; Dean of the Dato’ Dr Daing Nasir. Faculty of Computer Systems & Software “Consequently, UMP will be assisting Engineering, Associate Professor Dr Jasni the small and medium enterprises to Mohamad Zain; and Dean of the Faculty of conduct product research and development Industrial Sciences & Technology, Professor at the university, which in turn, will help Dr Mashitah Mohd Yusoff. our laboratories to be recognized as the best in the East Coast,” exclaimed the Vice- In conjunction with the launching Chancellor. ceremony, a Pahang Biotechnology The event also lay witness to the Declamation competition was held exchanging of the Strategic Action Plan’s concurrently, and FIST undergraduate, Siti collaboration documents between Professor Aisyah Mustapha, was honored as the Best Dato’ Dr Daing Nasir, on behalf of UMP, and Orator.

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niversiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP) continued 10 Researchers Won to gain success after 10 researchers won two gold medals, four silver medals and four bronze medals at the International Medals At Iena Exhibition Ideas - Invention New Products U(IENA) 2010 in Germany and Bio Malaysia Exhibition 2010 in Kuala Lumpur recently. And Bio Malaysia Two entries were submitted at IENA by Faculty of Chemical & Natural Resource Engineering Exhibition 2010 researchers, Associate Professor Dr. Hayder A. Abdul Bari and Dr. Chin Sim Yee. Dr. Hayder won gold for his work titled, “Aloe Vera Mucilage As New Flow Improving Agent In Pipelines Carrying Liquids In Turbulent Mode” while Dr Chin took home a silver medal for his research, “Modified Heterogeneous Process For the Production By: DR ARUN GUPTA Of Biodiesel With Glycerol Acetal Additive”.

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With the success of UMP’s researchers, this will inspire others to launch the university on the international stage.

At the Bio Malaysia Associate Professor Dr. Abdurahman Abduelraman also won silver medals. Exhibition, the faculty’s researcher Hamid Nour won a silver medal for Other bronze medallists Dr. Arun Gupta won a gold medal for his work titled, “Development Of A were Dr. D.M. Reddy Prasad, Dr. his research project titled, “Nano- Membrane Anaerobic System (MAS) Mohammad Dalour Hossen Beg and Wood Composites”. For Sewage Sludge Treatment”. Dr. Jolius Gimbun. Products manufactured using He had successfully developed an Saiful Nizam Tajuddin and nano technology can help better the alternative system that effectively Professor Dr. Mashitah Mohd Yusoff country’s timber industry as the treats sludge. from Faculty of Industrial Sciences goods can replace solid wood, they A research product titled, and Technology also won a bronze contain greater mechanics features “Anaerobic Degradation Of Palm medal for their work, “UMP Gaharu which are more environmental Oil Mill Effluent With Butyrate As A Quality Index”. friendly. Exports can be increased Sole Substrate” by Dr. Anwar Ahmad With the success of UMP’s and this will make the timber-based and a product developed using researchers, this will inspire others industry stronger. natural material to control affects to launch the university on the Another researcher, of dengue by Dr. Azhari Hamid Nour international stage.

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UMP researchers bag 10 medals at MTE 2011

Researchers from Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP) continue to accumulate accolades when they bag 10 medals – one gold, two silver and seven bronze – at the Malaysia Technology Exposition (MTE), held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre recently.

r Ahmed N Abd Alla from UMP’s Faculty of Electronics & Electrical Engineering made the university proud withD the sole gold through his research entitled, “A Cellular Energy Management System for Monitoring and Controlling Based on Time of Power Consumption” – a system to read electric meter within a shorter is user-friendly as compared to those Zulkafli Hassan, Associate Professor time-span, using a research product currently found in the local market Dr Abdurahman Hamid Nour and Dr called Smart Meter. and abroad,” he added. Iqbal Ahmed – along with Kumaran According to Dr Ahmed, the Meanwhile, two of the Kadirgama (Faculty of Mechanical system allows consumers to conserve silver medals went to Associate Engineering) and Dr Noraziah Ahmad as it does not require any major Professor Dr Hayder Abdul Bari from (Faculty of Computer Systems & fitting work to the electrical meters the Faculty of Chemical & Natural Software Engineering) took home the currently installed in residential and Resources Engineering (FKKSA) with bronze. UMP also bagged the best industrial premises. “In fact, this his “Novel Mechanical Technique to “barespace” in the booth category. research product is so innovative, Improve the Flow in Pipelines (UMP This year’s MTE saw a to the point that it can generate a Octopus)”; and Dr Arun Gupta collective display of 500 research reading and transmit the information with his “Innovative Technique to products from 65 local government of current electrical usage via short Extract Keratin Protein from Chicken agencies, institutions of higher message service (SMS). Feather”. learning as well as schools from “The gadget may be fitted Three other FKKSA Poland, Singapore, South Korea and either digitally or analogically, and it researchers – Associate Professor Spain.

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“This new collaboration detailed the need for an UMP spreads exchange of academic information and expertise, wings to especially in the fields of engineering and technology between the two Sarajevo universities,”

academic information and expertise, especially in the fields of engineering and technology between the two universities,” he emphasized. Present at the signing ceremony were University of Sarajevo’s Deputy Rector, Professor Dr Slavenka Vobornik; and several of its deans – Professor Dr Ejub Dzafeferovic (Faculty of Mechanical Engineering), Professor Dr Kemo Sokolija (Faculty of Electrical Engineering), Professor Dr Ahmed Hadrovic (Faculty of Architecture), Professor Dr Mustafa Hrasnica (Faculty of Civil Engineering) and Professor Dr Samir Causevic (Faculty of Transportation & Communications). Meanwhile, accompanying Professor Dato’ Dr Daing Nasir niversiti Malaysia Pahang both universities. (UMP) has spread its Vice-Chancellor Professor to Sarajevo were UMP’s Deputy wings to Sarajevo when Dato’ Dr Daing Nasir Daing Ibrahim Vice-Chancellor (Academic & it signed a Memorandum signed the memorandum on behalf International), Professor Dr of Understanding (MoU) of UMP whilst University of Sarajevo Badhrulhisham Abdul Aziz; and Uin the fields of academic development was represented by its Rector, Deputy Registrar, Haryani Abdullah. as well as research and development Professor Dr Faruk Caklovica. The three also took the opportunity with the University of Sarajevo last According to Professor Dato’ to visit the University of Dzemal October 20. Dr Daing Nasir, the signing of the Bijedic (Mostar) and the University Through the MoU, UMP and MoU would pave the way for the of Tuzla in Bosnia-Herzegovina. University of Sarajevo have agreed two universities to complement each The Head of Malaysian to collaborate on students and other and foster stronger ties. Embassy in Bosnia, Khairul Nazran academic staff exchange, as well as “This new collaboration Abdul Rahman, was also present to attachment of visiting professors at detailed the need for an exchange of witness the historical event.

-Pekan Review- Bridging Universiti Malaysia Pahang to the world community 026 UMP receives RM1.085 million cenfed, umph welcomes agencies’ cooperation

MP Holdings Sdn. Bhd. (UMPH), a subsidiary of Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP) and Centre of Continuing UEducation and Professional Development (CENFED) contributed RM1 million and RM85,689.53, respectively to the university. It was their first payout to UMP. According to UMPH Chairman, Dato’ Sri Abdul Aziz Abdul financing enabled the university to would be conducted and he projected Rahman, they valued the cooperation build infrastructure that would spur an income of more than RM4 million rendered by UMP’s management, learning and teaching activities. for the following year. lecturers and consultants who had “Rental fees collected from He hoped the company’s given a lot of inputs to the company’s facilities leased such as the sports business would continue to expand, development. complex hall, analytical laboratory, in line with the Government’s “The cooperation from lecture halls and land in Gambang aspiration to make Malaysia a high- related agencies that issue helped to generate income for the income nation. certification and provide funding to company. Dato’ Sri Abdul Aziz who CENFED programmes ensure that “The contribution made represented UMPH and CENFED, the courses offered will contribute is a manifestation of institutes of gave away the contributions to to developing the country’s human higher learning competent enough Professor Dato’ Dr Daing Nasir resources. to generate 30% their own income. Ibrahim. Also present were Deputy “The agencies are It meets the Government’s for public Vice-Chancellor (Research & Occupational Safety and Health universities to make it on their own, Innovation) Professor Dato’ Dr Rosli Department (DOSH), Construction financially. I am confident that UMP Mohd Yunus, UMPH Chief Executive Industry Development Board is capable of doing so. Officer, Mohamad Nazri Musa and (CIDB), Pembangunan Sumber “UMPH has also set up its own CENFED Acting Director Tuan Haji Manusia Berhad (PSMB) and SME subsidiary, UMP Green Technology Jamil Basri. Corp Malaysia,’’ he said. Sdn. Bhd. which is expected to churn Among the guests who He said this in his speech a sum of RM1.2million annually. attended the dinner were UMP at an appreciation dinner organised “More consultancy projects board of director member and by UMPH and CENFED attended by and technical services involving Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn. some 200 guests at Dewan Astaka faculties and industrial companies Bhd. (PERODUA) Managing Director, UMP on December 13, 2010. are expected that will contribute Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh and He added that the purchase RM300,000 every year,’’ he added. Higher Education Ministry’s Loan of several lots in Gambang campus Dato’ Sri Abdul Aziz also said Management And Financial Market covering some 240,000 square metre he anticipated more engineering Division Deputy Secretary, Tuan Haji through Affin Islamic Bank Berhad and technology-related programmes Maliami Hamad.

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Vice-Chancellor receives AGBA award

niversiti Malaysia Hotel Putrajaya during the gathering acknowledgement to his contribution Pahang (UMP) Vice- held on December 1-3, 2010. in the development of management Chancellor, Professor The award was presented by and business studies in Malaysia. Dato’ Dr. Daing Nasir chairman of the congress, Professor More than 250 local and Ibrahim received AGBA Dr. Shawn Carraher from Minot State foreign participants attended Life-Time Achievement Award 2010 University, USA. U the congress. Among the topics in conjunction with the 7th Academy It was in recognition to discussed in paper works that for Global Business Advancement Professor Dato’ Dr. Daing Nasir (AGBA) World Congress organised scholarly accounting field, as an were presented, among others, by Academy for Global Business educator and researcher as well as focused on business studies such as Advancement (AGBA), USA and his involvement in management and management, accounting, financial, Universiti Putra Malaysia’s School of professional bodies. marketing, strategy and human Graduates Studies at Palm Garden The award was also an resource management.

The award was presented by chairman of the congress, Professor Dr. Shawn Carraher from Minot State University, USA.

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Professor Dr. Badhrulhisham, the new Deputy VC

rofessor Dr. Badhrulhisham Abdul Aziz, has been appointed Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP)’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (AcademicP & International) for three years, effective from June 1, 2010 until May 31, 2013. He replaces Professor Dato’ Dr. Sabarudin Mohd. Dr. Badhrulhisham, 47, earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering from Colorado University in the US, Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering from University College of Wales (Swansea) in the UK and a PhD in Chemical Engineering from Kyoto University, Japan. He started his academic He has wide experience in the industrial sector having worked career as a tutor and lecturer in as a senior manager (operation and health safety security Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). environment) in SKS Refinery Sdn. Bhd. and operations manager He has wide experience in in Cabot Material Research Sdn Bhd. the industrial sector having worked as a senior manager (operation and health safety security environment) abroad. and expertise in the academic line in SKS Refinery Sdn. Bhd. and He also served as a and industrial sector proved to be operations manager in Cabot consultant for the Palm Oil a valuable asset and in 2005, Dr. Material Research Sdn Bhd. Registration & Licensing Authority Badrulhisham was appointed as the Dr. Badrulhisham then (PORLA) that determined the quality Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research & ventured into the academic line and criteria and standards in palm oil Innovation). became a lecturer and eventually a factories. He then went on to be UMP’s professor at UMP. He is also as a consultant head of corporate development and He had conducted a lot appointed by the Pahang government quality management center before of research works and presented to map out the development of the entrusted with the latest post as the working papers in the subject of state’s biotechnology sector. Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic & chemical engineering, locally and His extensive knowledge International).

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“The understanding that Academic Collaboration: we have is an excellent launch-pad for both UMP and NIU to pursue UMP Spreads Wings auxiliary collaborations in other focus areas, To The US which we hope will eventually boost our global academic standing.”

niversiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP) spreads its wings to the United States of America when it sealed a Memorandum Uof Understanding (MoU) with Northern Illinois University (NIU) in Dekalb, Illinois, on November 22, 2010. UMP Vice-Chancellor, studies, energy and sustainability, signature. Professor Dato’ Dr. Daing Nasir Daing and nano-sciences,” he said. “The MoU that we just signed Ibrahim, signed the MoU on behalf Furthermore, the Vice- will be a historic milestone in the of the Malaysian university whilst Chancellor said, the signing of the international cooperation between NIU was represented by its Provost/ MoU has stamped a stronger foothold our two academic institutions, Executive Vice-President, Raymond in the two universities’ collaborative especially in promulgating the fields W Alden III. efforts in computer science and of science and technology,” he The newly minted strategic technology programmes. emphasized. relationship covers several areas “This is also in line with Accompanying Professor of networking, including exploring the aspirations and initiatives of Dato’ Dr Daing Nasir on his visit to the possibility of setting up of an the Government of Malaysia to America were Deputy Vice-Chancellor engineering technology programme. produce pragmatic engineers and (Academic & International), Professor Dato’ Dr. Daing technologists to meet current Professor Dr Badhrulhisham Abdul Nasir elaborated that the discussions employment market demands,” Aziz; Director of International Office, he had with the NIU Provost also Professor Dato’ Dr. Daing Nasir Dr Wan Norlidah Al-Qadri; and Senior revolved around students’ exchange added. Assistant Registrar from the Deputy and twinning programmes, short- “The understanding that we term attachment of academic staff have is an excellent launch-pad for Vice-Chancellor’s Office (Academic and students’ mobility. both UMP and NIU to pursue auxiliary & International), Mohd Raizalhilmy “UMP will certainly benefit collaborations in other focus areas, Mohd Rais. from this bilateral academic which we hope will eventually boost The UMP delegation took cooperation, especially so when our global academic standing.” a guided tour to NIU’s College tapping NIU’s vast experience in Meanwhile, Alden expressed of Engineering & Engineering engineering technology programmes high hopes that whatever has been Technology, and attended a series of and sharing the exploration of new discussed will materialize and prove mutual discussions with NIU to form field of studies like environmental beneficial for the two parties to the the initial networking strategies.

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UMP, KUAS tie-up to enhance mould & die manufacturing

This effort to bolster the skills of local workforce in the making of mould and die would in turn support the expansion of the country’s automotive industry.

o further develop the mould and die The tie-up with KUAS – known worldwide for its manufacturing industry in Malaysia, Universiti engineering prowess – was hoped to enhance the local Malaysia Pahang (UMP) has entered into an manufacturing industry, thereby minimizing Malaysia’s academic and research collaboration with intake of expatriates and dependence on foreign Taiwan’s National Kaohsiung University expertise in the relevant fields. ofT Applied Sciences (KUAS), with the signing of a This effort to bolster the skills of local workforce Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Banquet in the making of mould and die would in turn support the Hall of UMP’s Chancellery on August 3, 2010. expansion of the country’s automotive industry. UMP Vice-Chancellor Professor Dato’ Dr Daing According to Professor Dato’ Dr Daing Nasir, Mohd Nasir Daing Ibrahim and Deputy Vice-Chancellor “With this MoU, UMP would now be able to procure (Research & Innovation), Professor Dato’ Dr Rosli Mohd Visiting Professors from KUAS, who are expert in the Yunus, signed the MoU on behalf of the university, manufacturing of mould and die. whilst KUAS was represented by its President, Professor “UMP has also taken it a step further, by offering Chun-Hsiung Fang and its Chairman of the Department the subject on mould and die as an elective course for of Manufacturing Engineering (Mould & Die), Professor Third Year students in the Faculty of Manufacturing Cheng-Hsien Wu. Engineering & Technology Management (FKPPT), starting this semester.

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“The collaboration with KUAS Professor Dato’ Dr Daing Nasir expressed his is further hoped to advance the hopes that the collaboration between the two knowledge, skills and expertise of universities would extend further to include UMP’s teaching and learning, as well as research and development (R&D), of engineering fields of automotive, electrical and mould and die,” he added. electronics in the near future. Presently, the Vice-Chancellor highlighted, UMP’s Automotive Excellent Centre (AEC) is working closely with the industry involved in the making of mould and die through R&D activity among postgraduate students as well as by offering a course leading to a diploma in the said field. Professor Dato’ Dr Daing Nasir expressed his hopes that the collaboration between the two universities would extend further to include engineering fields of automotive, electrical and electronics in the near future. Meanwhile, in his address, KUAS President, Professor Chun-Hsiung Fang, said he hoped the collaboration entailing R&D, students exchange programme and postgraduate programmes, would prove beneficial to both universities in the long run. The KUAS duo was accompanied by its Director-General of the Centre of Academy-Industry, Professor Jinn-Jong Sheu, and the Director of International Office, Professor Chun-Hsien Kuo. They were shown around UMP’s FKPPT. Accompanying the KUAS quartet on the tour were UMP’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor, (Academic & International), Professor Dr Badhrulhisham Abdul Aziz; Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Corporate Planning & Quality Management), Professor Dr Shamsuddin Baharin; Assistant Vice- Chancellor (Students Affair & Alumni), Professor Dr Yuserrie Zainuddin; Director of AEC, Mohd Paudzi Abdullah; and Deputy Dean of FKPPT, Associate Professor Dr Wan Azhar Wan Yusoff.

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MAI, UMP to produce more than 5,600 local automotive engineers in various dicipline by 2015

he Malaysia Automotive Institute (MAI), an agency under the Ministry of International Trade & Industry (MITI) Tannounced its strategic alliance with Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP), to produce engineers in various automotive disciplines which in-line with MAI directive in collaboration with Institution of Higher Learning in producing more than 5600 automotive engineers by 2015 on 15 March 2011. This alliance is another milestone for MAI, in its efforts to further enhance the competitiveness of the local automotive industry. CEO of MAI, Madani Sahari and UMP Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Dr. Daing Nasir Ibrahim exchanged a Memorandum of Metal Stamping Dies and Plastic programmes/ initiatives that will of Understanding (MoU) document Injection Moulding,” explained produce graduates that the industry in the presence of Minister of Madani. specifically needs. International Trade & Industry, As a focal point and MAI seeks to strengthen Malaysia, Yang Berhormat Dato’ Sri coordination centre for the ties between academia and industry Mustapa Mohamed. development of the local automotive to ensure that graduates that are The partnership with UMP industry MAI’s objectives include produced will fulfil industry needs. is centred on three main areas - enhancing human capital According to Madani, this Tooling & Manufacturing Engineering, development. collaboration is aimed enhancing Technology Development and This approach involves quality of human capital in the local Component Testing. working with industry leaders and Automotive Industry. We are looking “Tooling is an important academic institutions to help identify at producing 1,500 tooling engineers aspect in the manufacturing of current shortfalls in the industry and 500 Lean Production System vehicles, which includes key areas and address this by coordinating (LPS)Engineers by 2015.

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The partnership with UMP is centred on three main areas - Tooling & Manufacturing Engineering, Technology Development and Component Testing.

Nasir said, the “Immediately tooling industry, there will be 30 especially the tooling and 31 Mold and Die LPS Engineers making industry, qualifying this is an emerging April,” he said. and critical This programme will see have worked towards identifying engineering field in Malaysia which undergraduates of two courses the industry needs in automotive is emphasised and supported by the (Mould Engineering & Dies component testing. government. Skilled and competent Engineering) working alongside The objective of this workforce in this industry is needed engineers at OEMS and vendors exercise is to identify the gap for Malaysia to be self-sufficient. during their industrial practical between the testing needs of the We are pleased to broaden training. component industry against the our partnership with MAI and through It is expected that students available component testing facilities this collaboration, UMP students, will be seconded to OEMs and over in the country and henceforth to lecturers, researchers and industry 100 vendors in the metal, plastic recommend solutions in addressing experts alike are expected to and casting sub-sectors. Madani the gap. The use of testing facilities contribute and share their technical explained that this aspect of the at UMP and other universities is one expertise and technology knowhow collaboration was already underway, of these solutions. in filling the gap. producing the first batch of 40 This strategic alliance He continued, UMP’s Mold and engineers in April this year. will also focus on Technology Die Engineering program is currently Madani also explained, a Development, to further enhance being offered by its Manufacturing significant part of this partnership the overall development of the local Engineering Department and will be the ability for UMP to provide automotive industry via applied is concentrating on producing component testing services currently research and development. engineering graduates with relevant not available in the country and to Madani explained, UMP is capabilities and skills especially in help develop advance automotive a premier public higher institution the mold and die engineering as component technology for over 20 actively involved in research, needed by the industry in Malaysia. automotive suppliers. training and students related UMP hopes the collaboration Malaysia Automotive development initiatives at local and could be expanded to other Institute (MAI) in collaboration internationaland this is exactly why engineering fields such as mechanical with the other automotive vendor we have chosen to collaborate with engineering, electronic and electrical associations and the public them. engineering and other relevant fields Institutions of Higher Learning Professor Dato’ Dr. Daing in future.

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1,000 visitors at UMP’s Invention Exhibition

Its objective was to ore than 1,000 visitors increase awareness on comprising students the importance of creative from institutes of higher learning (IPT) thinking as well as to and schools around inculcate innovation culture MKuantan came to the Invention and in the society especially Innovation Competition organised by Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP) at among students at Dewan Astaka, Gambang on October submitted to vie for the first prize secondary schools up to 4, 2010. which was cash RM1,500 for IPT and According to Centre RM1,000 for secondary school. those in universities. for Continuing Education and Tuan Haji Jamil said creative Professional Development (CENFED) thinking and innovation culture Acting Director, Tuan Haji Jamil needed to be instilled to create Basri, the competition’s theme was wealth, knowledge and comfort for ‘Innovation For Life’. the society. Its objective was to increase “Creativity and innovation awareness on the importance of required a society that has the creative thinking as well as to courage to make changes. inculcate innovation culture in the “This is why it is essential society especially among students for the society to develop creative at secondary schools up to those in thinking in order to achieve a universities. developed nation status by 2020,’’ A total of 70 entries were he added.

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“Creativity and innovation required a society that has the courage to make changes.

(KLIUC), Maktab Rendah Sains Mara (MRSM) Muadzam Shah, Pahang, MRSM PDRM Kulim Kedah, Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Aminuddin Baki, Kuala Lumpur, Sekolah Menengah Vokasional Slim River, and Sekolah Berasrama Penuh Integrasi Sabak Bernam. On the entries received for presented were the Inventor Award Tuan Haji Jamil hoped that the competition, Tuan Haji Jamil that was won by Sekolah Menengah the biennial competition would spur said evaluations were made based Teknik, Tengku Ampuan Afzan, the culture of invention among the on who created the most engaging while Sekolah Menengah society, creating the habit of sharing piece. Teknik (Pertanian) Teluk Intan, knowledge and dream of bright Sekolah Menengah Sains Perak took home the Industrial ideas. Kepala Batas, Pulau Pinang was Science Special Award. Also present at the event crowned as the champion for The Most Friendliest Award were Marimas Sdn Bhd managing the Best of the Best category for went to Universiti Pertahanan director and secondary school with their creation, Nasional Malaysia. Contractors Association President ‘Palm Oil, Hero to Zero Pollution’ Among the entries received Datuk Haji Che Wan Mohd Khalid while the IPTA category was won were from Universiti Teknologi Mohamad, its Honorary Secretary, by UiTM Shah Alam for their work MARA (UiTM) Shah Alam, UiTM Rahim Abd Samad, Pahang on the future of cities based on the Jengka, Institut Kemahiran Mara Education Department’s Human Night City in Alor Gajah, Melaka. (IKM) Beseri, Kuala Lumpur Resource Development Sector Head, Other special awards Infrastructure University College Jaafar Idris and UMP’s management.

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UMP launch Malaysia’s first Academic Initiative on Campus

niversiti Malaysia Pahang of the public and private sectors in The tripartite alliance (UMP) strengthened Malaysia. signifies strong commitment by its partnership with It will enhance the capabilities UMP, HeiTech Padu and IBM in IBM and HeiTech Padu of IT education at institutions such supporting the Government’s Berhad with the launch as UMP in producing graduates and aspiration toward human capital Uof Malaysia’s first Academic Initiative postgraduates with high quality skills development, specifically in bridging on Campus “Center of Excellence” on and professional IBM certification. the shortage in System z technical 9 March 2011 recently. The Center of Excellence skills in Malaysia. It also aims to The center aims to teach is the highlight of the System z position Malaysia as a hub of skilled and develop skills specifically on IBM Academic Initiative Memorandum IT experts and mainframe specialists technologies to produce graduates of Understanding (MoU) signed in this region. with the knowledge and skills to meet between UMP, IBM and HeiTech Padu Under the collaboration, the growing IT and business needs in June 2010. UMP will provide teaching resources

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The establishment of the Center of Excellence will enable UMP to produce graduates with relevant IT knowledge and skills, to contribute to the creation of valuable work, locally and globally

science and software engineering continue to seek out opportunities graduates to contribute to the local to collaborate with leading academic and global ICT workforce. institutions to help build up the “We recognize the need skill set of our students to enhance for more IT specialists as they are their employability and to meet the essential to any enterprise, but are demands of the ICT industry. hampered by the current lack of “This is an ongoing effort and facilities, whilst IBM will provide such skilled resources. by IBM in bringing innovation and leading software, courseware, “Responding to the demands progress to the nation, and in training and testing necessary to of the market, and the increased supporting the nation’s quest to be gain IBM certification. HeiTech requirement for research and a high-income, knowledge economy. Padu will also provide UMP with the development knowledge, the Center IBM celebrates its 50th anniversary in hardware infrastructure, as well as of Excellence is being established Malaysia this year,” he said. internships and job opportunities for with the aim of producing such Concentrating on the its graduates. graduates with the required development of technological Students will be trained knowledge, ability and analytic skills infrastructure, UMP is currently the in IBM hardware and software to plan and manage IT effectively first and only institution in Malaysia technology, particularly the System through innovative learning process to teach its students capabilities of z mainframe technology as well as and practical teamwork,” he said. the IBM System z mainframe that DB2, WebSphere, and Tivoli software Managing Director, IBM comes with features that are fully in capabilities. Malaysia, Ramanathan Sathiamutty line with IBM’s vision of a “Smarter Vice-Chancellor, Professor said, IBM is proud to strengthen Planet." Dato’ Dr. Daing Nasir Ibrahim, our cooperation with institutions of The flexibility of the system Universiti Malaysia Pahang said, The higher learning like UMP, that are integration provides distinction opening of the Center of Excellence committed to the development of in terms of processing stability, on our campus will bring us one information technology. contributing to lower costs and step closer to realizing our vision of “The establishment of the energy savings. becoming a world class technological Center of Excellence will enable Universities around the university. UMP to produce graduates with world are using the IBM System z “We are pleased to broaden relevant IT knowledge and skills, to mainframe as part of the teaching our partnership with IBM and HeiTech contribute to the creation of valuable curriculum, with more than 500 Padu to add value and increase the work, locally and globally,” he said. universities and over 50,000 number of local skilled computer He continued, IBM will students who have been certified.

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CELS’ global “UMP has always emphasized on the practice certification to of safety, health and environmental preservation. These certifications went to boost industry show that our laboratory is the best in the East Coast,” confidence - Vice-Chancellor

testing at our university. Aside from that, these laboratories will be used for optimal teaching and learning experience,” said Professor Dato’ Dr. Daing Nasir. Effective for three years beginning from July 6, 2006, the Vice-Chancellor added that the certification was a step forward in the acculturation of the university’s research and development endeavours, especially set out to realize the objectives of the University-Industry concept in its 2008-2010 Strategic Planning. According to Professor Dato’ Dr. Daing Nasir, the international recognition could, furthermore, be seen as UMP’s initiative to he Civil Engineering Laboratory encourage companies to carry out surface Services (CELS) at Universiti water sampling and wastewater testing for Malaysia Pahang’s (UMP) Faculty industrial production. of Civil Engineering & Earth “It will prove beneficial to the Resources recently received students as well, when it comes to learning Ta global certification for its high-quality of and getting exposed to the techniques laboratory management. and methodologies applied in international Ecstatic about the university’s standards certification,” he emphasized. achievement, UMP’s Vice-Chancellor, The Vice-Chancellor couldn’t contain Professor Dato’ Dr. Daing Nasir Ibrahim, to express his joy of three other certifications said the ISO/EIC 17025:2005 certification received by the university – two from NIOSH was a testimony of how well-managed Certification Sdn. Bhd. on the Employment UMP’s laboratories were – systematically run Safety & Health Management System according to world standards. (OHSAS 18001:2007) and MS 1722:Part “Such certification is hoped to 1:2005 and another, Environmental attract more industries to conduct product Management System (ISO 14001:2004) –

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all for the laboratories at the Faculty of Chemical & Natural Resources Engineering. These two management systems collectively form the Safety, Health & Environmental Unified System. “UMP has always emphasized on the practice of safety, health and environmental preservation. These certifications went to show that our laboratory is the best in the East Coast,” exclaimed the Vice- Chancellor at a press conference in conjunction with the “Moh Makan Durian” programme with media practitioners. The programme was held in appreciation of the positive coverage given by the media since UMP’s establishment eight years ago. During the same event, Professor Dato’ Dr. Daing Nasir took the opportunity to announce the recognition bestowed on invention and innovation competition, of Manufacturing Engineering & the university by the Malaysian themed “Innovation for Life”. Three Technology Management, Professor Biotechnology Corporation for the categories were contested – Close Dr. Ahmad Othman; Berita Harian research conducted at its laboratory (for UMP only) and Open (for all Bureau Chief, Abdul Razak Raaf; New to assist the small and medium institutions of higher learning, and Straits Times Press Bhd. (Kuantan) enterprises vide the BioNexus secondary schools). Manager, Fauzi Abdul Hamid; and Partners Programme. Present at the event were Harian Metro journalist, Zaitie Satibi. Held concurrently with the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Among other media announcement of the recognition & International), Professor Dr. practitioners seen at the event were and in celebration of the university’s Badhrulhisham Abdul Aziz; Registrar, Bernama, RTM Pahang, The Star, 5th Convocation in October was an Mustafa Ibrahim; Dean of the Faculty and Kosmo!

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UMP graduates selected to pioneer aerospace industry

The only rose among the thorns – Nurul Husna – who will be joining US-based Spirit Aero Systems in Subang, , said she felt fortunate to have put up a good fight and beaten other applicants who actually possessed educational qualifications in aerospace. She believed she had hree graduates from Spirit Aero Systems Malaysia made the right decision to apply as Universiti Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Strand Aerospace employers’ demand for the particular Pahang’s (UMP) Faculty Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. and Composites skills and expertise is expected to of Mechanical Engineering Technology Research Malaysia Sdn. rise in the not-too-distant future. (FKM) were among the 24 Bhd. (CTRM). Meanwhile, Mohd Zaid could Tcandidates who secured their seats According to the Programme not believe his interest in aerospace in the “Aerospace Leaders” pilot Coordinator, Marlizan Markali has finally turned into reality, when programme, successfully beating from Might-Meteor Advanced offered to work with UK-founded thousands of other contenders in the Manufacturing Sdn. Bhd., of the 500 Strand Group of Companies. nationwide search. who qualified to the final selection Hairisuddin, who will be This means the three – process, only 24 aspirants were employed at CTRM, expressed Hairisuddin Idris and Mohd Zaid chosen. Of the number, 20 were males his bountiful gratitude, for the Zakaria, both 23, with Bachelors in and four females. These 24 will be exposures to acquiring humanitarian Mechanical Engineering, and Nurul equally distributed for employment and soft skills at UMP have landed Husna Md Sharif, 24, with a Bachelor among the three participating him and the other two these hard- in Automotive Engineering – would aerospace corporations. earned placements in the aerospace soon find themselves employed as “However, prior to their industry. engineers in three of the country’s secondment to these companies, Present at the official world-renowned aerospace they have to undergo intensive launching of the Soft Skills Course at corporations, with the expertise training in soft skills, where they will the Agro Resort Semuji in Kuantan, to manufacture components for acquire communication proficiency Pahang, were UMP’s Assistant aerospace exploration. and 16 months of technical Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs This pilot programme was the competency”. & Alumni), Professor Dr Yuserrie brainchild of the Ministry of Higher “They will be trained in both Zainuddin; Might-Meteor Chief Education, with close participation of theory and practical, especially in Operation Officer (COO), Jasmin public institutions of higher learning, utilizing the CATIA software, until Baba; Strand COO, Naquib Mohd and the collaboration of Malaysian- they become well-versed and expert Nor; as well as representatives from Industry Group for High Technology, in the required fields,” said Marlizan. Spirit AeroSystems and CTRM.

-Pekan Review- Bridging Universiti Malaysia Pahang to the world community 041 VC: Stand up & be heard “One way to make such a communal impact is through activities, including voluntary ones, organized by the university’s Students’ Council (MPM),”

niversiti Malaysia one generation to another as the members of the MPP 2011/2012 Pahang (UMP) Vice- MPP prioritize its activities to reflect session took the pledge of Chancellor, Professor maturity and wisdom in maintaining responsibility and loyalty in the Dato’ Dr Daing Nasir an atmosphere of harmony within presence of the Vice-Chancellor. Daing Ibrahim, has the campus. At the ceremony, the newly called upon UMP students to On this note, the Vice- U elected Head of MPP, Muhammad take advantage of the availed Chancellor was all praise for a group Fazli Abdul Halim, gave his word that opportunities to voice their concerns of UMP student-volunteers who and to be heard. went the extra mile to go cross- under his stewardship, the students’ “One way to make such country promoting the university’s body will approach every endeavour a communal impact is through “We Care” campaign recently. well-mannered and professionally. activities, including voluntary He also expressed high Assisting Fazli in the new ones, organized by the university’s hopes for the MPP to assist the session are Deputy Sazwan Sahar, Students’ Council (MPP),” he university in implementing its 2011- Treasurer Shahira Mohd Basir and 21 emphasized, adding that he was 2015 Strategic Planning by proposing other general and faculty committee thankful that the recent MPP’s value-added initiatives and members. election for the 2011/2012 session programmes in enhancing academic At the closing of the has taken place without a glitch. quality, financial sustainability, ceremony, Professor Dato’ Dr Daing In his opening address at the socio-economic development and MPP’s pledge of allegiance ceremony, branding. Nasir recorded his appreciation for Professor Dato’ Dr Daing Nasir aired The swearing-in ceremony, the stewardship, commitment and his views that volunteerism should held at the Banquet Hall of the contribution of Mohd Aedlan Nur be inculcated and developed from Chancellery Building, saw 24 Ahmad in the last MPP session.

-Pekan Review- Bridging Universiti Malaysia Pahang to the world community 042

GACC is open in UMP

he Opening Ceremony of the German Academic “Beginning July 2010, the and Career Centre (GACC) officially marked Bachelor of Mechatronics the implementation of the first Dual-Degree Engineering was offered. Programme with a German Partner that is fully conducted on Malaysia soil on 21st December The offering entails joint 2010T recently. teaching and exam setting Derived from the strategic direction of the Ministry of Higher Education to implement high-quality, practical by the two universitie,” he oriented engineering program, Germany’s renowned hands- said. on education model was adopted by Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP). UMP Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Dr. Daing Nasir Ibrahim said, both partners, UMP and Karlsruhe University of Applied Science (HsKA), achieved the compliance of their partnership and its required accreditation within the pattern setting pace of less than a year. “Beginning July 2010, the Bachelor of Mechatronics Engineering was offered. The offering entails joint teaching and exam setting by the two universitie,” he said.

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In addition to its main task in mediating between UMP and HsKA, GACC will also seek co-operation with the German industry in Malaysia to assure an education that is based on and tailored for the demands and needs of the working life. SGL Group Malaysia is one of the first companies who has followed the implementation of the Dual-Degree Programme observingly, being well aware of the potential it hold for the industry. The GACC used the auspicious inauguration for the signing of a letter of Intent (LOI) between UMP, represented by Managing Director, Khiang Hua Lim. The LoI cover academic and research collaborations as well as preliminaries for an exclusive Human Capital Development. Professor Dato’ Daing Nasir envisages a couple of other programs in engineering and technology in the pipeline of the collaboration as GACC consolidates its functions and roles in UMP. Automotive and Business & Engineering programs are among that have been mentioned at this point in time.

-Pekan Review- Bridging Universiti Malaysia Pahang to the world community 044

UMP as the Basketball Sports Centre for public universities

igher Education Deputy Minister, Dato’ Saifuddin Abdullah He said this announced that Universiti was in line with Malaysia Pahang (UMP) was picked as the basketball sports the Higher centerH for public universities in the country. Education He said this when launching Malaysia Higher Education Deputy Minister Trophy’s Institute Sports 3rd Basketball Carnival held at SUKPA Indoor Development Stadium, Kuantan on October 8, 2010. Policy that He said this was in line with the Higher Education Institute Sports focused more Development Policy that focused more on on developing developing sports activity and programme, adding, basketball had been identified as sports activity one of the main components in the plan. and programme, “Organising the basketball carnival programme together with the ministries adding, is an initiative that would add value and of Higher Education, Education, Sports impact sports as a way of life among and Youth as well as Malaysia Basketball basketball undergraduates. Association (MABA). had been “The game can be turned into a A total of 133 teams, comprising 1Malaysia Sports by getting all races to 113 from public universities and 20 identified as participate,’’ he added. from secondary schools, took part in the one of the main Dato’ Saifuddin suggested that UMP tournament. components in played a role as the medium in scouting new Under the public university category, talents and helping to upgrade the quality of Universiti Malaya A (UM-A) was named the the plan. the game among students. winner for men’s group after defeating He also said the ministry had set Universiti Putra Malaysia A (UPM-A). The Higher Education a minimum target of 30% that national women’s group was won by Universiti Sains Deputy Minister, players must include undergraduates from Malaysia (USM-A) when they beat Universiti Dato’ Saifuddin Abdullah public universities nationwide. Teknologi Malaysia (UTM-D). According to the carnival’s Under the secondary school tournament Tuan Haji Mustafa Ibrahim, category, the winner for the boys’ group UMP was now drafting a sports development was Majlis Sukan Sekolah Kelantan (MSSK)

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after the team overpowered SMK Air Putih, Kuantan while SMK Air Putih (A) grabbed the first prize for the girls’ group. Prizes were presented by Professor Dato’ Dr Daing Nasir Ibrahim. Champions of each category received RM2,000 in cash, a trophy and certificate while first runners-up took home cash of RM1,500. Third placings were rewarded with RM1,000. Also present were Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs & Alumni), Professor Dr Yuserrie Zainuddin, Sports Centre Head Jasni Ladin and MABA Kuantan Chairman, Yap Kim Heng.

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VC launches UMP Alumni Portal “UMP does not only function as an institution that assembles a group of people who seek knowledge but also an establishment that churns out good administrators and in return, gives back to the nation.

(Student Affairs & Alumni), Professor Dr. Yuserrie Zainuddin also urged alumni members to be actively involved in organising activities and to join forces with UMP staff in meeting the university’s vision. A member of the association Shaheil Nordin, 26, expressed his gratitude that the event had managed to attract more than 700 niversiti Malaysia Gambang Resort on October 9, former students from all races. Pahang (UMP) Vice- 2010. He hoped the portal would Chancellor, Professor He added that the newly serve as a means to maintain the Dato’ Dr Daing Nasir launched portal would be a platform relationship between UMP and Ibrahim urged UMP to disseminate information and hold alumni members and for them to be UAlumni Association members to useful activities for the betterment informed of the latest happenings in continue to stay in touch with each of everyone. the university. other to foster ties and for them to “UMP does not only function Also present were the exchange valuable experience. as an institution that assembles a first Rector when UMP was known “UMP Alumni Association group of people who seek knowledge as Kolej Universiti Kejuruteraan is expected to continue making but also an establishment that & Teknologi Malaysia (KUKTEM), its contribution as an alma mater churns out good administrators and Professor Dato’ Dr. Abu Azam Md. and carry on its rapport with the in return, gives back to the nation. Yassin and his wife, Professor Datin university,’’ he said in his speech “UMP welcomes and Dr Nasly Mohamed Ali, who was the at the launching of the alumni’s encourages the alumni’s members Graduate Studies Centre Dean. portal during a dinner organised to participate in the many activities Former students of UMP who by the Student Affairs and Alumni organised by UMP,” he said. wish to register as members can do Department (JHEPA) at Bukit Assistant Vice-Chancellor so at http://alumni.ump.edu.my/.

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multimedia presentation prize. Mohd Irwan said during UMP gets second the preliminary stage, the team introduced a concept using bio- ethanol as an alternative fuel to placing in NACES fossil fuel. They reached the finals after beating Universiti Tun 2010 Abdul Razak (UTAR), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and Curtin University of Technology. Another team led by Kor en students from He said the students Yue Kim with members Ezani Faculty of Chemical shared information about chemical Zahari, Mohamad Noradli Hashi & Natural Resource engineering and chemical industry. and Florence Wednna Sanggie won Engineering, Universiti He added that the the best technical design (factory). Malaysia Pahang (UMP) programme aimed at producing Mohamad Sufian Khalid wereT selected to take part in a engineers who were bold and was picked to participate in the competition of National Chemical competitive. essay writing competition. Engineering Symposium at Shah “Their success showed Universiti Sains Malaysia Alam on December 19, 2010. that UMP students were capable (USM) and UMP went to the finals The theme was ‘Green of competing at a higher level and to compete against Universiti Technology’. The participants were their winnings were something to Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) dan chemical engineering students be proud of,” Associate Professor Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) from 12 institutes of higher Zulkafli said. after each was placed first and learning in the country. UMP was represented by second in the preliminary rounds. According to the faculty’s Mohd Irwan Shah Md Zain, who USM was declared as the dean Associate Professor Zulkafli was the team leader, Muhammad champion of NACES 2010 with Hassan, it was UMP’s first Ilham Miskon, Mohd Amiruddin UMP as the runner-up and followed involvement in the competition Mohd Zaini and Mohd Usman Mohd by UPM and UTM. and it had been a good experience Junaidi. UTM was also announced for the students. They took home the best at the host for NACES 2011.

-Pekan Review- Bridging Universiti Malaysia Pahang to the world community 048

7 best friends formed A was established. The good were able to apply things learned Business friends may have different in classes. capabilities but they are “In fact, it helps to further driven by one objective – enhance our knowledge and skills Company for MLE to be the catalyst in developing the system taught that spurs development by our lecturers,’’ said the Sabah- in animation and video born Muhaimin. computer game. Despite being a new As part of their player in the field, MLE is slowly preparations to start and surely making its marks not the business, MLE only in UMP and Kuantan but also hey are in their 20s but managing director Muhaimin and at the international level. that have not stopped Azmi attended Undergraduate Some of the works a group of seven young Entrepreneurship Training and done included a multimedia people from Universiti Undergraduate Entrepreneurship presentation of an official event Malaysia Pahang (UMP) Basic Course at the organised by UMP – Cendekia Tto own a business company Entrepreneurial Unit of UMP’s Bitara and providing multimedia registered with the Companies Student Affairs and Alumni. software training to students in Commission of Malaysia (CCM). According to Muhaimin, schools around Kuantan. They are Muhammad the idea to set up the company MLE’s members had Muhaimin Juhari, 23, Azmi started when they found they had also won local and international Mohamad Ariff, 24, Mohd Huzairi a common interest in animation competitions. Saidin, 23, Muhammad Yalah, especially in computer video They won first prize in 22, Emma Sofia Zulkefli, 23, games. Asean-Korea Multimedia 2009 and Suryanizam Sabturani, “MLE commences Competition organised by the 23 – all are final-year degree operations on March 11, 2009 at country’s Trade and International programme students of Faculty of Fourth Residential College, UMP, Ministry. Their entry was titled, Computer Systems and Software offering services in developing “I’m No Alone”. Engineering. Another is Nazar computer video game, 2D MLE also succeeded Syafiq Nazri, 21, a final-year animation, website settings, in being a first runner-up in diploma programme student of multimedia application and digital the MSC Malaysia-Institutes of the same faculty. advertisement. Higher Learning Business Plan The group pooled together Although all of them were competition where they took home a sum of RM3,000 and with that still studying, that did not get in RM3,000, a third placing in the amount, Media Lab Studio (MLE) their way to operate MLE as they Eco-Bumi contest which came with

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a prize of RM2,500 and the latest would continue with their business However, he would remain was the Malaysia Imagine Cup 2010 after getting their degrees, Azmi with MLE as he believed there were a organised by Microsoft Corporation. said they would proceed with the lot of opportunities to discover other Eco-Bumi was a ‘game business as it was a challenging apart from the theories learned in side-scroller’ or ‘platformer’, a career with good, commercial classes. project similar to Mario or Rockman potentials. Muhaimin said discipline, designed for children from primary Emma, the only rose among commitment and perseverance were to secondary school. the thorns, said she did not feel the keys that had helped strengthen It is designed as a fun awkward to be among the males. MLE. game but at the same time, it gives “In fact, I have made “I hope, one day, the positive input on the importance of significant contribution in helping to company will come up with protecting the environment. develop the company as we share Malaysian products with qualities of According to Huzairi, the same interest.” international standard. Game was very popular among the Emma also said currently, “MLE has dreams of youngsters. there were many graduates in producing sophisticated animation “However, our application the market who were jobless and such as those produced in Japan but contains positive message to the she advised them to change their one with Malaysian values. players. attitude and perception about “We want something that “Players will be entertained with the venturing into business. inculcates the 1Malaysia concept quality of the animation screen and As for Nazar, he would want and positive virtues that will bring graphics contained in Eco-Bumi.’’ to continue his studies and obtain a about significant impact on the Their success in setting up degree like his friends. children” he said. MLE and building up the company as they have set it out to be showed true grit and potential for them to be one of the major players in the industry. Muhaimin is the chief programmer, responsible in ensuring that the Game functioned properly while Huzairi and Khalis are tasked with preparing the material to be applied in the Game such as object sprites and background impression. When asked whether they

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Children of Malaysians Help Earthquake Victims

By: AHMAD ZIAD SULAIMAN

ome 200 children they had done. of Malaysians in “They managed to hold North Palmerston, an array of performances that New Zealand did the showcase the multi-ethnicity and country proud when culture of Malaysia,’’ he added. Sthey successfully staged a charity The children, aged concert, “Road to Recovery between four and 12, performed Concert 2010” which went to 20 shows including a Malay that Malaysians remained to be wedding, ‘silat’ and a ‘joget’ a caring lot although they were dance. They were trained for abroad. three weeks by Puan Raja The concert attracted Haslinda. more than 1,000 people Ahmad Ziad also who came to watch cultural said the costumes and stage performances at the Reagent props were contributed by the Theatre Hall aimed at raising parents, adding, the concert funds to help earthquake victims was a platform for Malaysians to at Christchurch and flood victims showcase their culture to locals. was launched two months ago. in Pakistan. “At the same time, we The concert was According to UMP senior help to raise fund for the victims. organised by Pakistan New lecturer, Ahmad Ziad Sulaiman, “We really sympathise Zealand Friendship Association who was pursuing his doctorate with our neighbours at the South president Karl Gill dan Tehseen at School of Engineering and Island who were affected by the Aslam and among the guests Advanced Technology, Massey earthquake in September that who attended it were Pakistan University, he was proud to see destroyed more than 100,000 acting High Commissioner, North how committed the children in houses,’’ he added. Palmerston Mayor, its Members putting up the show. He said they also made of Parliament, company directors “We, as the parents, contributions to victims in and North Palmerston association were certainly proud of what Pakistan and that a disaster fund presidents.

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UMP’s Joyous ‘1Malaysia’ Light Festival Night

ore than 1,000 people By having including students programmes such from institutes of as the Light Festival higher learning and Night, it would help local residents in students to develop KuantanM flocked Universiti Malaysia soft skills that would Pahang (UMP) Sports Complex to make them more celebrate the Light Festival Night competitive when organised by the university’s Cultural graduated, he said. and Arts Club on Oct 18, 2010. “The society Among those who attended also needs to be more appreciative By having programmes were students from Olympia College, and respectful of the ethnicity of Shahputra College, Kuantan Nursing every race in Malaysia. such as the Light Festival College, Kuantan Community College “Students will inherit the Night, it would help and UMP. future and they need to uphold The programme’s director the customs and identity of their students to develop soft and a Faculty of Mechanical ancestors including traditional skills that would make Engineering student Jagatis s/o dances and attires,’’ he added. them more competitive Baldiyah said he was very happy During the Light Festival Night, with the response showed by the guests were entertained with when graduated students and public. colourful and interesting dances He said it was the first time such as Allegra, Paalakadu, Banghra, culture. that such an event was held and its Tanikai and a theater performance Ellie who came dressed in an objective was to foster closer ties by UMP students. Indian traditional dress said she did between UMP and local residents as There were also Chinese not feel awkward at all wearing the well as for them to know more about and Malay traditional dances that attire. Indian culture. captivated the audience. In fact, she was proud to On the 1Malaysia theme, Some Malay and Chinese do so and able to enjoy the festival Jagatis said it was to promote better guests came dressed in Indian together with her friends. relationship among the country’s traditional clothing and it made the The students, regardless of multi-racial society. event more cheery. UMP Cultural Officer, Mohd According to Faculty of their races, also took part in making Zaki Ahmad said Student Affairs and Chemical and Natural Resources the ‘kolam’ using colourful rice at Alumni Department (JHEPA) fully Engineering undergraduate Ellie the stadium’s main entry. A ‘kolam’ supported activities that encouraged Fazlin, 22, she attended the event is a sign for Indian community that participation of those from various because she wanted to know and they will celebrate the auspicious races. understand more about the Indian Deepavali.

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-Pekan Review- Bridging Universiti Malaysia Pahang to the world community