UTAR signs MoU with Majlis Sukan Negara

UTAR signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Majlis Sukan Negara (MSN) on 1 November 2023 at Dewan Banquet CASA 4, Majlis Sukan Negara. MSN also signed an MoU with Imperium International College (IIC) and Scholarships2u Sdn Bhd (S2U) at the event.

From left: Mr Gan, Ms Anne, Dr Nagulendran, YB Hannah Yeoh, Prof Choong, Mr Abdul Rashid and Mr Arrifin

The signatories were Ketua Pengarah MSN Mr Abdul Rashid Yaakub and UTAR Vice President for Student Development and Alumni Relations Prof Dr Choong Chee Keong. While witnessing the signing were Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) Minister YB Hannah Yeoh Tseow Suan, Ketua Setiausaha KBS Ts Dr Nagulendran Kangayatkarasu, Timbalan Ketua Pengarah (Strategik) MSN Mr Arrifin Mohd Ghani, and UTAR Division of Community and International Networking (DCInterNet) Director Assoc Prof Dr Lai Soon Onn. The representatives from the other two parties were IIC President Ms Anne Rajasaikaran and S2U Chief Executive Officer Mr Gan Lian Lee.

YB Hannah Yeoh delivering her speech

YB Hannah Yeoh said, “Every athlete, striving for their country’s reputation and performance, needs to be guaranteed the opportunity to advance themselves in the field of education, including their educational and career prospects. We want Malaysian athletes to also be known for their good educational background. This is because sports are as much about good strategic thinking as they are about physical ability. Our athletes have made contributions to the country, and we need the cooperation and support of the government, businesses and the public to provide a path to ensure the future of our athletes.”

She concluded, “Today, as you invest in our current group of athletes with scholarships, you are not just investing in their future, but you are also investing to the sports industry in Malaysia. Through this scholarship offer, I hope you can raise new sports administrators and educators for this nation. Thank you for playing your part.”

Prof Choong delivering his speech

Prof Choong said, “This MoU embodies our commitment to creating opportunities for our national athletes, offering them a gateway to access UTAR’s academic programmes by accommodating their demanding schedules and training commitments. We wish to provide platforms for engagement in various university community activities, fostering a well-rounded experience that enriches not only their academic pursuits but also their personal growth and development.”

He concluded, “This MoU is not just a ceremonial agreement, it is a pact that symbolises our shared belief in the power of education and sports, and in the potential of each individual to excel in both arenas. Our doors are open, our programmes are designed, and our support is unwavering.”

Prof Choong (left) and Mr Abdul Rashid signing and exchanging the MoU documents

Prof Choong (left) and Mr Abdul Rashid exchanging souvenirs