UTAR and CIOB Malaysia deepen collaboration to advance professional standards in construction and built environment

UTAR strengthened its commitment to industry-aligned education through the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Chartered Institute of Building Malaysia (CIOB). Held on 21 November 2025 at the Sungai Long Campus, the ceremony reaffirmed a long-standing partnership and highlighted both institutions’ shared vision to elevate Malaysia’s construction and built environment sectors.

The CIOB delegation was led by its President Ir Ts Loi Yew Hua FCIOB, accompanied by Vice-President (Administration) and MCP Coordinator Mr Wong Khin Yip, Council Member Dr Tan Hai Cheng, Council Member Mr Ng Seng Chee, Immediate Past President Ts Ho Chee Leong, and Past President & Council Member Dr Yeow Yoon Foo.

Representing UTAR were Vice President (Internationalisation and Academic Development) Ir Prof Dr Goi Bok Min, Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science Dean Prof Ts Dr Yap Wun She, Office of International Affairs Director Assoc Prof Dr Lai Soon Onn, Centre for Extension Education Director Assoc Prof Ir Dr Lim Jee Hock, Civil Engineering Department Head Ir Ts Dr Yip Chun Chieh, Master of Project Management Programme Head Sr Zamharira binti Sulaiman, Dr Ong Chuan Fang, and staff.

In his speech, Prof Goi emphasised the significance of UTAR’s long-standing relationship with CIOB and the value of strengthening academic–industry integration. He said, “Our collaboration with CIOB advances UTAR’s commitment to producing graduates who are industry-ready and ethically grounded. By combining academic expertise with CIOB’s global professional standards, this MoU aims to enrich student learning and support the development of future leaders in the construction and built environment sectors.”

Ir Ts Loi said, “This partnership strengthens the bridge between education and industry. By aligning academic learning with professional standards, UTAR students—especially in engineering, construction, and project management—gain the practical exposure and values needed to thrive. We look forward to working closely with UTAR to develop capable, industry-ready professionals for Malaysia’s built environment.”

Under the MoU, UTAR and CIOB will collaborate in areas such as joint research, academic–industry activities, expertise sharing, industrial study visits, and professional development programmes. The partnership also includes the development of competency-based training through APEL(C) and micro-credential pathways, further supporting a responsive and future-ready talent pipeline for the sector.