PUTRAJAYA, 14 November 2024: Heriot-Watt University Malaysia (“University”) and Invest KL Corporation (“InvestKL”) have today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) to commemorate the partnership with InvestKL Talent Programme - a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing local graduate employability and driving Malaysia's economic development.

This collaboration comes at a crucial time as Malaysia strives to increase its skilled workforce to 35 percent by 2030. The partnership aims to bridge the gap between academic output and industry demands, aligning with the Government's vision for talent development and economic growth.

Professor Mushtak Al-Atabi, Chief Executive Officer and Provost of Heriot-Watt University Malaysia emphasised the significance of this alliance: "Our partnership with InvestKL represents the University’s commitment to equipping our students with skills vital for the local and global marketplace. By merging our academic expertise with InvestKL’s industry network, we're cultivating an environment that fosters industry-ready local graduates."

The InvestKL Talent Programme will focus on developing essential soft skills, leadership abilities, and management capabilities required by multinational corporations (“MNCs”). Students will engage directly with InvestKL’s network of global MNCs, gaining practical insights and opportunities that go beyond traditional classroom learning.

Datuk Muhammad Azmi Zulkifli, Chief Executive Officer at InvestKL, highlighted the economic benefits: "This collaboration exemplifies the synergy between academia and industry in addressing Malaysia's talent needs. We're not just preparing students for jobs; we're shaping future leaders who will drive Malaysia's transition to an innovation-led economy."

The programme is expected to have a significant impact on graduate employability. With the recent employment rate of fresh graduates in Malaysia at 85 percent, this initiative aims to improve both the quantity and quality of employment opportunities in high-value sectors.

Long-term objectives of this partnership include establishing Greater Kuala Lumpur as a regional modern services hub, attracting increased foreign direct investment, conducting cutting-edge activities and creating a robust talent pipeline that meets the evolving demands of both local and multinational companies.

This collaboration between the University and InvestKL marks a pivotal step in Malaysia's journey towards a knowledge-based economy. By fostering closer ties between academia and industry, the partnership aims to enhance graduate employability, nurture high-value sectors, and contribute to Malaysia's economic advancement.

The MOU signing ceremony, held today at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia’s campus, officially launches the programme, setting the stage for a sustained era of industry-academia collaboration in Malaysia.

For more information on Heriot-Watt University Malaysia and its world-class programmes, please visit https://www.hw.ac.uk/malaysia/