UTAR and BBSB Holdings Sdn Bhd ink MoA to launch
transformative scholarship initiative

In a move that underscores the enduring value of industry-academia collaboration, UTAR formalised a strategic partnership with BBSB Holdings Sdn Bhd through a memorandum of agreement (MoA) signed on 11 August 2025. The ceremony marked the establishment of the BBSB-UTAR Scholarship, a milestone in championing inclusive education and talent development in Malaysia. 

Representing UTAR were its President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat; Vice President for Student Development and Alumni Relations Prof Dr Choong Chee Keong; Dean of the Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science (LKC FES) Prof Ts Dr Yap Wun She; and LKC FES Head of the Department of Surveying Dr Felicia Yong Yan Yan. Representing BBSB Holdings were its Managing Director Datuk Ir Tan Chin Nyan; Operations Manager Mr Tan Tze Tung; and Human Resources Manager Ms Ravon Tan.

In his address, Prof Dato’ Ewe expressed sincere appreciation for BBSB Holdings’ commitment to higher education, noting the scholarship’s holistic nature. “This initiative is more than just financial support. It is a comprehensive investment in a student’s academic journey and personal well-being,” he remarked. The BBSB-UTAR Scholarship will fully cover tuition fees, provide a monthly living allowance, and include a laptop, thereby eliminating financial barriers and enabling recipients to focus entirely on their studies and professional development. 

The scholarship, earmarked for a student pursuing the Bachelor of Science (Honours) Quantity Surveying, is designed to support individuals with both academic merit and financial need. Particular consideration will be given to students actively engaged in co-curricular and competitive activities, reinforcing UTAR’s mission of nurturing well-rounded graduates equipped to lead and serve in their respective fields.

Datuk Tan echoed these sentiments in his speech, stating that BBSB’s contribution was guided by a belief in education as a catalyst for progress. He emphasised the company’s commitment to empowering youth and supporting Malaysia’s built environment sector by investing in future talents. 

This collaboration exemplifies UTAR’s commitment to forging impactful ties with industry. With more than 780 partnerships across academic institutions, corporations, research bodies, and NGOs worldwide, UTAR continuously cultivates opportunities that enrich students’ learning experiences and societal contributions. The addition of BBSB Holdings to this growing network reaffirms UTAR’s role as a catalyst for academic excellence and nation-building. 

As both institutions look forward to the fruits of this partnership, the BBSB-UTAR Scholarship stands as a testament to what can be achieved when educational ideals align with corporate responsibility. It reflects the shared vision of UTAR and BBSB to develop future-ready professionals while fostering greater accessibility to quality higher education.