Tunghai University (THU), Universitas Internasional Batam (UIB) and UTAR collaborated with Kathmandu University (KU), Yezin Agricultural University (YAU), Mahidol University (MU), Sukkur IBA University, Taichung University of Science and Technology, and Society for Design and Process Science to organise the 2nd Conference on Management, Business, Innovation, Education, and Social Science (CoMBInES) on 4 March 2022. The conference aimed to provide opportunities for researchers in the field of Management, Business, Engineering, and Social Sciences to present their research works.
Prof Ewe delivering his remarks
The opening ceremony of the conference was conducted via Google Meet. In his remarks, UTAR President Ir Prof Dr Ewe Hong Tat said, “I am glad to note that UTAR is working closely with other universities to provide opportunities for researchers in the field of Management, Business, Engineering, and Social Sciences to present their research works, share their ideas and contribute to the pool of knowledge. I believe that this conference will bring together bright minds to share knowledge and expertise on a wide range of subjects that are idea-focused to bring innovative solutions to the challenges we face now and, in the future, especially during these trying times.”
He added, “This conference will serve as a platform for all participants to communicate with each other internationally and locally as well as enhance mutual understanding in higher education and research systems across different countries. I am also excited that we will be able to listen to our keynote speakers and participants as they share their research development, ideas, and innovations which will nudge creative thinking and the engagement of purposeful discussion.”
Dr Iskandar Itan delivering his remarks
On the other hand, UIB Rector Dr Iskandar Itan said, “The first CoMBInES was held in 2021 by UIB in collaboration with THU and UTAR. Since then, the conference has proven positive values for all participating institutions and individuals. The conference gave opportunities for students and academics to present their research works and collaborate with international peers. This generated valuable networking opportunities and productive conversations around relevant topics, strengthening the relationship between our academic institutions. This year, our conference will address the most pressing issues of our local and global communities with the theme ‘Post-pandemic: Recovery, Change and Sustainability’.”
He mentioned that the COVID-19 pandemic has refiled the challenges and risks society faces. “We have the opportunity to review and redesign our society and economic systems. Our recovery efforts must support human well-being and environmental sustainability. This means focusing on investment and behavioural changes that will increase society’s resilience while prioritising inclusiveness and helping vulnerable groups. The objective of the conference is for our students and academics across the globe to share knowledge and learn from each other in discussing the prospect of building a more sustainable and resilient future.”
Prof Chang delivering his remarks
THU President Prof Dr Kuo-En Chang expressed his gratitude to be a part of organising this meaningful conference. In his speech, he introduced the background of the University and said, “THU is a private university in Taiwan which was established in 1955. It was founded by the United Board for Christian Higher Education in Asia (UBCHEA) and became one of the most important universities in Taiwan.” He mentioned that the next year’s conference will be hosted by UTAR in Malaysia.
Dr Jacob presenting his keynote speech
The conference continued with an opening forum, featuring Prof Ewe’s presentation on the topic ‘How to Cope with Changes for the Post-epidemic Era’. Dr Jacob (Kobi) Inbar, Head of Uzi Wexler Graduate Program in Technological Entrepreneurship at Azrieli College of Engineering Jerusalem also delivered a keynote speech titled ‘Educating for Sustainable Entrepreneurship - Is it really possible?’.
Dr Sia promoting the 3rd CoMBInES which will be held next year
Moreover, UTAR Faculty of Accountancy and Management (FAM) Dean Dr Sia Bee Chuan gave a brief introduction about the 3rd CoMBInES as the event will be hosted next year by the University. She said that the theme of next year’s conference will be Entrepreneurial Sustainability: Embracing the New Normal. She explained, “The theme is very relevant and appropriate since we are in continuation with today’s conference ‘Post-pandemic: Recovery, Change and Sustainability’.” She explained that ‘entrepreneurial’ in the next year’s theme refers to the action research that addresses real problems faced by the industry; while ‘sustainability’ refers to the minimising of the social and environmental impacts.
The conference was then followed by a presentation session covering topics in the areas of management, business, innovation, education and social science, where more than 130 researchers presented their papers and more than 20 researchers presented their posters via Zoom. The awards, namely Best Paper, Best Presenter and Best Poster were announced at the closing ceremony of the conference.
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