University-industry collaboration aims to enhance student employability

From left: Vooi, Lim Swea Jen, Lim Guat Yen, Dr Lai, Tay, Ng, Lim Hui Min and Julianna Tay during the photography session

Delegates from Wilmar International paid a visit to UTAR Sungai Long Campus on 26 September 2019. UTAR was represented by Division of Community and International Networking Director Assoc Prof Dr Lai Soon Onn, Centre for Extension Education (CEE) Director Lim Guat Yen, Department of Alumni Relations and Placement Head Lim Swea Jen and CEE Assistant Manager Vooi Wen Kei.

The delegates were Wilmar International Head of Special Project Tay Thiam Peng, Wilmar International Human Resources Executives Lim Hui Min and Juliana Tay Hwee Leng, and Kuok Foundation General Manager Ng Teck Seng.

The visit aimed to forge closer ties between the two parties, explore possible cooperation especially in the area of student recruitment and exchange ideas of research and training.

Dr Lai welcomed the delegates and said, “I look forward to having a future collaboration with Wilmar International in the areas of student recruitment as well as joint research collaborations by involving UTAR faculties and centres.”

Tay gave an introduction about Wilmar International and said, “We hope to participate in the UTAR career day to seek for potential talented students to become one of our employees. They will also be exposed to working in different countries. This will enable them to continuously learn and progress in their career.”

The meeting was followed by a souvenir exchange between both universities and a photography session.

Ongoing discussion between both parties

Tay (right) exchanging souvenirs with Dr Lai (left)

Dr Lai presenting the souvenir to Ng (right)

Founded in 1991, Wilmar International Limited is today Asia’s leading agribusiness group. It is headquartered in Singapore. Wilmar is ranked amongst the largest listed companies by market capitalisation on the Singapore Exchange. Wilmar’s business activities include oil palm cultivation, oilseed crushing, edible oils refining, sugar milling and refining, manufacturing of consumer products, speciality fats, oleochemicals, biodiesel and fertilisers as well as flour and rice milling. At the core of Wilmar’s strategy is an integrated agribusiness model that encompasses the entire value chain of the agricultural commodity business, from cultivation, processing, merchandising to manufacturing of a wide range of agricultural products. It has over 500 manufacturing plants and an extensive distribution network covering China, India, Indonesia and some 50 other countries and regions. The Group has a multinational workforce of about 90,000 people. Wilmar is a firm advocate of sustainable growth and is committed to its role as a responsible corporate citizen.